معرفی
Dr. Emma S. Thacker serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Early, Elementary, and Reading Education within James Madison University's College of Education, specializing in social studies education and teacher preparation for K-12 civic engagement.
Her academic credentials include:
- B.A. in Anthropology/Sociology from Transylvania University
- M.A. in Secondary Social Studies Education from University of Kentucky
- Ph.D. in Education Sciences – Curriculum & Instruction from University of Kentucky
Her research pioneers the integration of lesson study, C3 Framework implementation, and inquiry-based pedagogy in elementary social studies classrooms. She develops practical strategies for disciplinary literacy infusion across K-6 curricula while advancing civic education as foundational to democratic participation. Her work bridges theory and practice through co-designed teacher learning communities focused on equitable classroom discourse.
Professional recognition includes:
- Essie Glass Award for excellence in scholarship and teaching (2019)
- Parker and Major Faculty Endowment supporting elementary social studies inquiry research (2020-2022)
Dr. Thacker directs externally funded initiatives examining social studies teacher cognition and curriculum enactment, while mentoring graduate researchers through JMU's teacher education programs. She actively shapes national standards as a writing committee member for the NCSS National Standards for Social Studies Teacher Preparation and serves on the editorial board of Social Studies and the Young Learner.
