Biography
Dr. Danielle Maya Pratt is Program Director and Associate Lecturer in Interdisciplinary Studies. She teaches, mentors, and develops interdisciplinary curriculum for a wide range of students, including those in Interdisciplinary Studies, Integrative General Studies, Leadership, and related programs. Her work emphasizes student-centered learning and the integration of access, innovation, and real-world application in higher education.
She has developed and taught multiple high-impact, university-recognized courses and is actively involved in mentoring both faculty and students. Her academic interests include the intersection of disability, relational pedagogy, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence in postsecondary contexts.
Dr. Pratt joined UCF in 2019 and holds a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Education from the University of South Florida, with areas of emphasis in Special Education, Criminology, and Mass Communications. She also earned master’s degrees in Educational Technology (Northern Arizona University) and Special Education (USF), along with a B.A. in Mass Communications. Before joining UCF, she served in leadership and teaching roles at Northern Arizona University and St. Petersburg College, and previously worked as a special education teacher in public schools.
A published author, speaker, and former foster parent, Dr. Pratt’s teaching and research continue to explore transformative approaches to interdisciplinary education.
- Inclusive and Disability-Centered Pedagogy
- Interdisciplinary Curriculum Design and Program Leadership
- Artificial Intelligence and Equity in Higher Education
Ph.D., Interdisciplinary Education (Special Education, Criminology, Mass Communications), University of South Florida (2008)
M.Ed., Educational Technology (Adult Learning & Training – Community College/Higher Education), Northern Arizona University (2018)
M.A.Ed., Special Education: Varying Exceptionalities, University of South Florida (2003)
B.A., Mass Communications: Magazine Journalism, University of South Florida (2001)
ADA Coordinator Certification, ADA Coordinator Training Certification Program (ACTCP), Awarded March 2025
Florida Professional Educator Certification (Active 2001–2023)
- Exceptional Student Education (K–12)
- Elementary Education (K–6)
- Journalism (6–12)