Jacqueline Leighton

Jacqueline Leighton is a Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Education and currently serves as Vice-Dean for Faculty Development and Affairs. Her career is marked by interdisciplinary research focusing on human development, cognition, and fair educational assessment practices. She holds a Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Alberta (2001) and has been funded by Tri-Council grants, including SSHRC and NSERC. Her work emphasizes cognitive diagnostic assessments, think-aloud methodologies, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL).

Leighton’s research integrates humanistic psychology principles with innovative assessment models like the LEAFF framework. She has authored influential books such as Cognitive Diagnostic Assessment: Theory and Applications and served as editor-in-chief of Educational Measurement: Issues and Practice. Collaborations include roles with ACT, College Board, and the Children’s Rights Academic Network (CRAN).

Her academic awards include the AERA Division D Contribution Award and recognition as a Minerva Scholar. Despite her administrative roles, Leighton maintains active research in critical thinking, data literacy, and socio-emotional learning. She has advised numerous graduate students and contributed to global educational measurement initiatives through partnerships like LEADS and iPAL.