Jeff's research focuses on the intersection of technology, STEM teacher learning and professional development with sub-topics of mathematics education, computational thinking, physical computing, formative assessment, complex instruction, Artificial Intelligence, user experience research, compassion, and equity.
Prior to coming to ICS, Jeff investigated how different instructional technology platforms interacted with high leverage teaching practices during formative assessment. Jeff worked with Woot Math (a Boulder based education technology startup, now part of Saga Education) to design formative assessment tools that empower teachers to use student thinking and ideas during instruction, making it easier for teachers to support students in developing mathematical mindsets. He also has worked with the PhET group to design simulations and study how they can support students with learning math and teachers with facilitating conceptually focused student discourse. Jeff also has worked to support math and computer science teachers in their professional learning, particularly around their use of instructional technology and assessment.
Jeff's work at ICS focuses on supporting teachers as they work to integrate programmable sensor technology, AI agents to support equity and collaboration and AI learning standards into middle school science and STEM classrooms. This includes work with the Institute for Student and AI Teaming (iSAT) to design multi-modal AI agents (and related curriculum) to support collaborative learning and student dignity affirming interactions in STEM classrooms, particularly about AI related concepts. Jeff writes curriculum, orchestrates teacher professional learning, analyzes data and acts as an intermediary between AI researchers and school/district partners.
Recently funded work focuses on creating an AI-augmented support model for algebra tutors to improve relational dynamics, equitable teaching practices and cognitive demand matching.
Prior to becoming a researcher, Jeff taught high school math in New Hampshire and led summer wilderness trips for teens through the YMCA.