About
Maria Lawrence is a Professor in the Department of Elementary Education at Rhode Island College, where she has served as faculty since 2000. Her career spans industry experience as an applications development engineer and chemist, followed by teaching roles in early identification and bridge programs at Brown University, Times Square, and RIC's Upward Bound Program, along with middle school science instruction in Rhode Island.
Her academic credentials include:
- Ph.D. in Educational Studies from Lesley University
- Masters in Teaching Physical Science from Rhode Island College
- BA in Chemistry from Rhode Island College
Her research centers on transformative elementary science education through inquiry-based methodologies, instructional technology integration, and culturally responsive curriculum design. She actively develops pedagogical frameworks that address diversity in science classrooms while enhancing STEM accessibility for young learners.
Professor Lawrence teaches core courses including:
- ELED 437: Teaching Elementary School Science
- ELED 438: Teaching Elementary School Math
- ELED 518: Science In The Elementary School
- WMST 200: Gender and Society
