Laboratory and Real-Life Research Advance Intelligent Choices
Learning Sciences & Technologies (LST) graduate students follow the WPI method of integrating theory with practice on campus and in urban classrooms, researching the impact of educational technology with input from teachers and students whose learning experiences—and futures—will be enhanced by these efforts. Faculty and students collaborate with the Worcester Public Schools, applying and testing theories in computer science, cognitive and educational psychology, and statistics in city classroom settings.
Working closely with undisputed leaders in educational psychology and educational data mining, as well as faculty at the cutting edge of intelligent tutoring, cognitive psychology, and artificial intelligence, LST graduate students focus on methods to increase success in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) learning and teaching in the United States in grades K-12.
Researchers use the following resource centers:
- Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Tutoring Laboratory
- Educational Psychology and Mathematics Learning Laboratory
- Advanced Learning Technologies Research Lab
Along with these laboratories, LST cognitive models are used to study student thought and learning patterns to design educational materials, practices, and technologies. Topics include instructional technologies, learning with visualizations and simulations, learner characteristics, human-computer interaction, and machine learning.