Education
- Ph.D. 2026 —University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Learning Sciences and Psychological Studies, Graduate Certificate in Design Thinking for the Public Good
- B.A. 2014 —Skidmore College, NY, Biology with minor in Sociology
Areas of Expertise
- STEM Education
- Socioscientific Issues-based Learning
- Modeling Practices
Background
Jamie Steiner, Ph.D., develops innovative science curriculum to help learners think about evidence-based solutions to complex socioscientific issues like disease outbreaks, natural disasters, and food and water shortages. She engages K-12 students in science practices such as analyzing data, developing and using models, and designing solutions to support their science learning outcomes and prepare them to be informed citizens when encountering science problems in everyday life. Prior to completing her doctorate at UNC, Jamie Steiner completed a Fulbright fellowship in the Netherlands.
Research
Jamie’s research focuses on students’ generation of solutions to real-world science problems. She examines students’ reasoning about possible solutions and how they apply evidence to justify their solution design decisions. She also investigates how models including computer simulations, systems models, and representations of scientific phenomena can help students think about these issues and the potential impact of solutions. Jamie collaborates with schools and school districts, science museums, and education technology companies to advance educational research and support the implementation of high-quality science instruction.