erottmar
Expert Bio

Professor Ottmar aims to develop and evaluate classroom interventions that improve mathematics teaching and learning. Her research focuses on the intersections of educational, cognitive, and developmental psychology. She is interested in understanding how cognitive and non-cognitive pathways combine to produce learning and growth for both students and teachers in K-12 mathematics classrooms. She is currently developing Graspable Math, an interactive web-based tool that allows you to explore, manipulate, transform, and solve mathematical expressions and equations.

Research areas/Expertise
Education
Educational technology (EdTech)
K-12 education
learning sciences
learning technologies
STEM
STEM education
game design
algebra
Mathematics
Psychology
user experience
AI
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Augmented Reality (AR)
Virtual Reality (VR)

Media Coverage

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Worcester Business Journal
WPI researcher receives $668K to study visual cues in math learning

Erin Ottmar, professor of learning sciences and psychology will research ways to improve algebra comprehension. The Worcester Business Journal reported on how Ottmar will consider the use of color and spacing in the presentation of equations.

Worcester Business Journal
Two WPI projects receive $1.6M combined to improve sanitation, education

The Worcester Business Journal highlighted two grants secured by WPI researchers: a $900,000 grant secured by WPI’s Institute of Science and Technology for Development (instead) for work in Ethiopia related to WPI MicroFlush toilets; and a $700,000 National Science Foundation grant secured by WPI researcher and associate professor Erin Ottmar to improve math tools for middle school teachers.

For media inquiries please contact:

Colleen B Wamback Associate Director, Public Relations

Colleen B Wamback
Director of Public Relations

Jon Cain Senior Public Relations Manager

Jon Cain
Senior Public Relations Manager

Steven Foskett,

Steven Foskett
Public Relations Manager

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