Current Projects
updated 06/15/2026
Exploring the Origins of Scientific Literacy and Interests
With the support of the National Science Foundation (Award #2300024), we are extending and replicating a previously funded investigation (NSF Award #1535102) of young children’s interest in, and ability to reason about, causal information. We are particularly interested in identifying potential relationships between early variability in these interests and skills and the development of scientific literacy and STEM engagement. This project also explores the role of parents in shaping the foundations of these long-term trajectories. If predictive relationships are detected, our next step will be to develop interventions to promote equitable access, engagement and success in science.
Developing an Artificially Intelligent Dialogic Reading Aid
With the support of the National Science Foundation (Award #2349210) we are developing an application to enhance conversations between adults and young children as they read books together. The app capitalizes on recent advances in artificial intelligence to generate prompts at opportune times during shared reading sessions that encourage rich conversations that help children learn vocabulary and build a strong foundation for early literacy. Flexible adaptation to the age, interests and native language of users will ensure broad impact for diverse learners traditionally facing limited access to early literacy supports. This project is also supported by Vanderbilt University’s Center for Technological Transfer & Communication’s Innovation Catalyst Fund, a LIVE Initiative’s Spark Grant, a Generative AI Seed Grant from the Office of Research Development & Support, as well as the Dollar General Literacy Foundation.
Early Influences of Home on Science Motivation
This study examines how components of the Home Science Environment (HSE) are associated with preschool-aged children’s scientific interest. By looking at science-related home resources, engagements, and the underlying attitudinal climate in which those are embedded, this study will help better identify the dimensions of the home science environment that better explain children’s emerging scientific motivations.