We Collaborate Across Disciplines to Create Change Across Industries.

The future of learning depends on how well we understand — and innovate — the ways people engage with content, technology and each other. That’s why our research spans the full spectrum of the learning experience, from what motivates individuals to how data and emerging technologies can enhance outcomes at scale.

In UCF’s Department of Learning Sciences and Educational Research, we are focused on advancing practical, evidence-based solutions by analyzing learning patterns through big data, designing more effective e-learning environments and exploring how self-regulated learning supports lifelong achievement. We work across disciplines and in close collaboration with schools, communities and industry across the region to ensure our work reflects the complexity of today’s learning ecosystems.

From using AI to improve STEM instruction to developing tools that personalize digital learning, our projects are grounded in real-world relevance. And at every step, we’re focused on helping learners succeed — not just by teaching better, but by understanding how individuals and groups learn best.

Research Areas

We Collaborate Across Disciplines to Create Change Across Industries.

The future of learning depends on how well we understand — and innovate — the ways people engage with content, technology and each other. That’s why our research spans the full spectrum of the learning experience, from what motivates individuals to how data and emerging technologies can enhance outcomes at scale.

In UCF’s Department of Learning Sciences and Educational Research, we are focused on advancing practical, evidence-based solutions by analyzing learning patterns through big data, designing more effective e-learning environments and exploring how self-regulated learning supports lifelong achievement. We work across disciplines and in close collaboration with schools, communities and industry across the region to ensure our work reflects the complexity of today’s learning ecosystems.

From using AI to improve STEM instruction to developing tools that personalize digital learning, our projects are grounded in real-world relevance. And at every step, we’re focused on helping learners succeed — not just by teaching better, but by understanding how individuals and groups learn best.

Pamela Rau headshot

“Being part of the Project GLIMPSE team has opened doors I didn’t even know existed. I’ve attended national and international conferences, delivered presentations, contributed to research, and even supported the development of a university-level course. Most importantly, I’ve developed a clearer sense of purpose. I now feel equipped to lead conversations about gifted education, both at my school and beyond.”

Pamela Rau ’25MEd
Gifted and Talented Teacher at Discovery Elementary School

Partnerships

Together, We’re Turning Curiosity into Impact

At UCF, we know that solving the world’s greatest challenges requires all of us. That’s why collaboration and partnership fuels everything we do. In the Department of Learning Sciences and Educational Research, we work closely with schools and organizations to ensure our research is grounded in real-world needs and our students gain experience that extends beyond the classroom.

Our partnership with the Lemelson-MIT Program, for example, allows us to not only collaborate on research but to share rich data that fuel opportunities for young people to develop the knowledge, skills and mindset needed to invent technological solutions to real-world problems. Through Project GLIMPSE, our faculty and students are working alongside the School District of Osceola County to better identify high-ability and gifted learners who are often overlooked — and enhance all schools’ ability to serve them.

Through these partnerships, we’re not only able to advance knowledge. We’re better able to empower students to become scholar-practitioners and change agents who understand how to apply their expertise in meaningful, measurable ways.

We’re always looking to expand our network of collaborators. If you’re interested in exploring partnership opportunities, we’d love to hear from you.

Partnerships

  • Florida Association for Gifted Children
  • Florida Gifted Network
  • Galileo School for Gifted Learners
  • Lemelson-MIT Program
  • Orange County Public Schools
  • The School District of Osceola County, Florida
  • Seminole County Public Schools

Student Research

Discovery with Purpose

Jesica Lovelace, a student in our Curriculum and Instruction doctoral program, earned first place in the UCF College of Graduate Studies' annual Three Minute Thesis competition.

At the graduate level, research isn’t just a learning experience — it’s a chance to shape the future of how we teach, train and grow. Here, you’ll engage in rigorous, hands-on research that explores how people learn and how we can design better systems to support that learning. Whether analyzing massive datasets, working with students across the region, studying motivation and self-regulation, or designing technology-enhanced instruction, you’ll work alongside faculty on nationally funded projects with real-world impact.

You’ll move beyond theory into practice, having the opportunity to participate inthe college’s Research Impact Showcase and UCF’s annual Student Research Week, contribute to publications, present at conferences and build a portfolio that positions you for leadership in academia, industry and applied research settings. And because we believe meaningful research is both collaborative and interdisciplinary, you’ll have opportunities to partner with departments across UCF and connect with external organizations.

To learn more about available research opportunities, reach out to your program coordinator today.

Advisory Board