About
Dr. Deborah Trytten is a Professor and Presidential Professor at the University of Oklahoma, affiliated with the School of Computer Science. She holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Michigan State University, alongside an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a B.S. in Physics and Mathematics from Albion College.
Research Focus: Qualitative research in engineering education, particularly analyzing the social construction of engineering education and improving introductory programming pedagogy. Her work examines how educational privilege, stereotypes, and policy affect student pathways and belonging in computer science and engineering.
Scientific Awards:
- Gallogly College of Engineering Pursuit of Excellence Faculty Award (2022)
- Ronald J. Schmitz Award for Outstanding Service to the Frontiers in Education Conference (2021)
- President’s Associates Presidential Professor (2015)
- William Elgin Wickenden Award, American Society for Engineering Education (2012)
- Board of Regents Superior Teaching Award (2011)
- Teaching Scholars Award, College of Engineering (2010)
- OU Foundation Excellence in Teaching Award (2009)
- ABET Computing Accreditation Commissioner (2012-2017)
Projects: Dr. Trytten has been a key investigator on over 30 grants, including NSF-funded initiatives like CS INCLUDES and The Privilege of Student, Experiential Learning, Engineering Competition Teams (SELECT). She also co-founded the Sooner Engineering Education Center (SEED) and the Research Institute for STEM Education (RISE).
Personal Interests: Outside academia, she enjoys sewing, needlework, yoga, Pilates, and fitness. She resides in Norman, Oklahoma, and is actively involved in her community, including mentoring through dog walking and fitness routines.
