About
Christa Norris is a Lecturer in Science Education and Coordinator of the Scholar in Residence (secondary) programs at Edith Cowan University’s School of Education. She holds roles as Science Education Coordinator, QTPA Discipline Coordinator, and is a member of the University Academic Board. Her expertise focuses on enhancing teaching self-efficacy in preservice teachers and integrating 21st-century skills into STEM education. Christa has pioneered innovative secondary internship programs and received the 2021 Vice Chancellor’s Award for Teaching Excellence.
Education
- Bachelor of Applied Science, Ballarat Institute of Advanced Education
- Graduate Diploma of Education, Ballarat Institute of Advanced Education
- Doctor of Philosophy, Edith Cowan University (2017)
Research Interests
- Development of teaching self-efficacy in preservice teachers
- STEM and sustainability education in primary and secondary contexts
- Design-based research for specialized ecology/geography teaching
- Mixed-methods research in education
Research Trends Christa’s work emphasizes improving educational practices through innovative programs and validated assessment tools. Recent studies explore astronomy self-efficacy, curriculum design, and the impact of extracurricular initiatives on creativity and collaboration.
Awards
- 2021 Vice Chancellor’s Award for Teaching Excellence in Programs that Enhance Learning
Advising & Grants
- Current supervision: Doctor of Philosophy on Performing Arts teachers in leadership
- Completed supervision: Study on astronomy programs’ impact on self-efficacy and identity
- Collaborations include projects with Indonesian institutions and the School of Science at ECU
Professional Affiliations
- Tournament of Minds Ltd (Board Member, 2013–)
- Science Teachers’ Association of Western Australia (2014–)
- Australasian Science Education Research Association (2015–)
