Katie LaCommare

Katie LaCommare, Ph.D., serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife at Michigan State University's College of Agriculture & Natural Resources. Her academic profile bridges organismal biology, conservation science, and educational innovation within a land-grant university context.

Her research program centers on:

• Transforming biology education through experiential learning frameworks
• Designing metacognitive interventions to address evolution misconceptions
• Integrating conservation case studies into curriculum development
• Creating inclusive classroom environments for diverse learners

Dr. LaCommare's scholarly work examines how structured reflection techniques can dismantle persistent student misunderstandings in biological concepts, particularly regarding evolutionary theory. Her approach combines cognitive science principles with discipline-based education research, focusing on active learning strategies that promote conceptual synthesis. This educational research builds upon her prior fieldwork investigating manatee ecology in Belize, where she developed practical population assessment methodologies applicable to resource-limited conservation contexts.

As a faculty member, she contributes to undergraduate and graduate instruction in fisheries and wildlife education, emphasizing real-world application of theoretical concepts. Her current research on metacognitive scaffolding represents an active investigation into improving science literacy, though specific grant mechanisms aren't detailed in available materials. Her interdisciplinary background uniquely positions her to connect conservation biology practice with pedagogical innovation.