Becca Gibson

Becca Gibson, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Education Department at McDaniel College, where she has been a faculty member since 2007. She teaches courses on literacy processes, reading acquisition, and writing instruction using children’s literature as models. Her academic work is centered on cultivating literacy skills in young learners and empowering pre-service teachers with effective and joyful teaching practices.

Educational Background:

• Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction, Literacy Focus – University of Maryland, College Park (2007)
• M.Ed. in Reading Education – Towson University (1998)
• B.A. in French and Elementary Education Teaching Certification – Albright College (1996)

Her research focuses on children's literacy development, including vocabulary acquisition, the use of nonfiction texts in primary classrooms, early intervention strategies for struggling readers, and emergent writing instruction. She is passionate about helping future educators develop confidence and competence in literacy teaching.

Though no recent publications are listed, her scholarly interests reflect a strong commitment to evidence-based literacy instruction and teacher preparation.

Scientific Awards:

• Finalist, International Reading Association's Outstanding Dissertation of the Year Award (2008)

Becca Gibson has advised pre-service teachers extensively through field-based coursework and mentoring. She has not received mention of external grants, but her work in curriculum development and teacher education has had a significant impact within McDaniel’s Education program. She serves on the Advisory Council for Teacher Education and acts as the Education Department Faculty Liaison, contributing to institutional leadership in teacher preparation.

She remains actively involved with elementary classrooms through her students’ field placements, maintaining strong connections between theory and practice. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes collaboration, joy, and resilience in the complex work of literacy instruction.