Caro Williams-Pierce

Dr. Caro Williams-Pierce is an Assistant Professor at the University of Maryland's College of Information Studies (iSchool), affiliated with the Youth eXperience (YX) Lab. Her work focuses on designing game-based and digital tools to enhance STEM education, particularly in mathematics. She holds a PhD in Curriculum & Instruction (Mathematics Education) from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and emphasizes embodied constructivist approaches, integrating physical gesture, digital interaction, and language to understand mathematical learning.

Her research explores how playful digital environments foster mathematical generalization and problem-solving. Key areas include game design for K-12 education, multimodal teacher training, and hybrid learning spaces. Dr. Williams-Pierce’s projects, such as the 'Read, Watch, Play' initiative, aim to gamify academic courses while maintaining rigorous educational outcomes.

Her articles highlight innovations like embodied failure analysis in math learning, collaborative sketching in virtual STEM activities, and the role of gesture in mathematical proof practices. Though not currently accepting PhD students, her lab collaborates on projects like the YX Lab’s youth-centered digital experiences.