Biography
I studied the psychology of cognitive and social-emotional development throughout my college career at University of Florida and Arizona State University. I earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Florida in 1998 and earned a master’s degree and then a doctorate in psychology from Arizona State University in 2005. I have taught at the college level for 22 years and have published research. I have also worked in administration as a Psychology Department Chair and as Dean of Academics at two universities. Although I’ve studied many areas of psychology, my focus is Cognitive Development–how thinking and learning changes across the lifespan. Given my interest in learning, it is not surprising that I discovered during graduate school that I have a passion for teaching.
I have become enamored with online education in the past five years, as the use of that tool increases. I’ve taught many psychology courses online and act as a subject matter reviewer of online courses. I’ve enjoyed teaching a graduate level course in Cognitive and Affective Bases of Behavior for three years now. Research finding links between emotion and cognition is currently a hot area and very interesting work is emerging. I feel that students who aspire to apply their understanding of psychology to intervene in the emotional and cognitive lives of other people need this information as a foundation.
Education and Certifications
Ph.D. Cognitive Developmental Psychology
Courses
PSY61012 Cognitive and Affective Bases of Behavior