Associate Professor of Science Education

California State University, Stanislaus

I am an Associate Professor of Science Education at California State University, Stanislaus, where I also serve as the Director of Maker Pedagogy and K-12 Outreach in the Warrior Fab Lab. My research focuses on STEM teacher development, with an emphasis on:

• Integrating LEGO Robotics and programming into STEM lesson plans

• Facilitating scientific discourse with children

• Designing interdisciplinary, project-based STEM units

I earned my Ph.D. in Science Education from New York University. Before transitioning to higher education, I was an elementary and special education teacher—an experience that continues to shape my commitment to inclusive and equitable science education.

Maker-Centered Learning & STEM Education

At the Warrior Fab Lab, I promote hands-on, maker-centered learning experiences for educators and students, aiming to enhance STEM education through interactive and creative approaches. I also lead PK-12 outreach programs, expanding access to the Fab Lab for local students and supporting teachers in integrating fabrication into STEM curricula.

To further this mission, we developed the Teaching Certificate for the Pedagogy of Innovation, providing structured support for local teachers and administrators to develop fabrication-based instructional practices. Additionally, I facilitate Faculty Learning Communities, helping university faculty and staff integrate fabrication technologies into their coursework.

Research & Publications

My contributions to STEM education include:

• "Integrating Physics and Literacy Learning in a Physics Course for Prospective Elementary and Middle School Teachers" – Exploring interdisciplinary approaches to physics and literacy in teacher education.

• "Encouraging Prospective Teachers to Engage Friends and Family in Exploring Physical Phenomena" – Investigating how future teachers can facilitate everyday science engagement.

• Co-author of a chapter in Reimagining Science Education in the Anthropocene – Examining the relationships between humans and the material world in the context of science education.

Through my work, I strive to advance innovative, inclusive, and interdisciplinary STEM education, preparing educators to inspire and engage students in scientific inquiry and exploration.