Kerry Jordan

Kerry Jordan is a Professor of Psychology at Utah State University (USU), directing the Brain and Cognition PhD program. Her research focuses on cognitive development, particularly multisensory processing and nonverbal cognition. She investigates how sensory integration enhances learning in domains like numerical cognition and environmental perception, with NSF-funded projects exploring early math knowledge and the impact of natural environments on decision-making. Dr. Jordan holds a PhD in Psychology from Duke University and a BA in Psychology and Biology from Harvard University. Her lab employs behavioral, neural, and technological methodologies to study topics ranging from animal cognition to digital learning tools.

Education

• PhD in Psychology, Duke University
• BA in Psychology and Biology, Harvard University

Research Interests

• Cognitive Development
• Multisensory Learning Mechanisms
• Numerical and Temporal Perception
• Environmental Cognition
• Technology-Enhanced Education

Her work bridges developmental psychology, neuroscience, and applied education, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration.

Research Trends Recent studies highlight how multisensory inputs improve numerical reasoning in children from diverse backgrounds, natural environments reduce impulsivity, and touchscreen apps influence neural activity during math tasks. Findings emphasize translational applications in education and public health.

Grants & Advising NSF-funded projects drive her work. She mentors undergraduate and graduate students in experimental design and neuroimaging techniques. Collaborations focus on virtual manipulative app development and cognitive load optimization in STEM education.

Labs/Teams The Jordan Lab integrates behavioral experiments with EEG/fNIRS neuroimaging to explore learning mechanisms in humans and animals. Current projects investigate coyote quantity tracking and neural correlates of mathematical thinking in children.