C. Shawn Green

Dr. C. Shawn Green is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he leads the Learning and Transfer Lab. His research investigates human learning across perceptual, cognitive, and motor domains, with a focus on transfer, rate, and depth of learning. He frequently employs video games, psychophysics, and cognitive training paradigms to explore general learning principles.

• University: University of Wisconsin–Madison
• School: College of Letters and Science
• Department: Department of Psychology
• Position: Professor
• Lab: Learning and Transfer Lab

Dr. Green’s research centers on cognitive and perceptual learning, particularly how action video game experience enhances attention, perception, and cognitive control. His work explores transfer of learning—why some training generalizes while other skills remain task-specific—and investigates individual differences in learning rates. He also studies motivation to learn, linking exploration-exploitation dynamics to real-world decision-making. His lab uses behavioral experiments, psychophysics, and collaborations with neuroscientists to uncover the mechanisms behind learning enhancement.

Analysis of his recent publications (2023–2025) reveals a strong focus on video games and cognition, transfer of learning, educational applications, and methodological innovation (e.g., PLFest platform). There is also growing interest in esports, planning assessment, and expectancy effects in training. His work bridges cognitive science, education, and public policy.

Dr. Green actively mentors graduate and undergraduate students and collaborates widely. He values holistic admissions and encourages co-mentorship across psychology subfields. He has served as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Cognitive Enhancement and contributes to policy discussions on digital media and learning.

• Learning and Transfer Lab: Investigates general learning principles using video games and psychophysics
• PLFest: Open platform for perceptual learning research
• Collaborations: Extensive work with Daphne Bavelier, Adam Gazzaley, and others
• Policy Engagement: Contributed to reports on video games, education, and cognitive training