John Sabatini

John Sabatini is a Distinguished Research Professor in the Department of Psychology and an affiliate of the Institute for Intelligent Systems at the University of Memphis. He holds a B.A. from the University of Chicago and a Ph.D. from the University of Delaware. His research focuses on cognition, instruction design, reading comprehension, educational assessment, and adult literacy. He has held significant roles, including Managing Principal Research Scientist at ETS, and has contributed to major initiatives like the NAEP Oral Reading Fluency Study and PIRLS. Sabatini’s work emphasizes scenario-based assessments and the integration of AI in education, with patents on virtual reading companion technology. He serves on advisory boards for organizations like the National Center for Family Learning and chairs conferences on text and discourse.

His research addresses challenges in adult literacy, cognitive processing deficits, and the application of technology to enhance learning. Collaborations include projects funded by IES, NIH, and the Department of Education, focusing on interventions like the Strategic Adolescent Reading Intervention. His patents and publications highlight innovations in adaptive assessments and tools for language learners. Sabatini’s lab at the University of Memphis explores 21st-century literacy challenges, emphasizing AI-driven solutions and evidence-based practices.