Kathryn Lanouette

Kathryn Lanouette is an Assistant Professor of Learning Sciences and Science Education at William & Mary’s School of Education. She holds faculty affiliate appointments in the Arts & Sciences (ENSP, IIC). Her research explores place-based pedagogies, emerging technologies, and their roles in fostering joyful, ethical science and data science learning for K-8 students. She collaborates with schools, museums, and youth-serving organizations to design curricula and outdoor learning experiences.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Learning Sciences and Human Development, University of California, Berkeley (2017)
• M.A. in Museum and Childhood Education, Bank Street Graduate School of Education
• B.A. in Politics, Oberlin College

Research Interests: Lanouette focuses on intersections between emotion, place, and data literacy, emphasizing participatory approaches to environmental and socio-ecological education. Her work bridges theory and practice, advocating for equitable, interdisciplinary STEM+ curricula that connect students to local ecosystems and global challenges.

Recent Trends in Publications: Her articles emphasize participatory methodologies (e.g., digital mapping, data storytelling), socio-political dimensions of learning, and ethical frameworks for data science education. Recent work highlights collaborations between educators and community organizations to co-create knowledge about climate change and socio-ecological systems.

• Awards:
• Outstanding Short Paper Award (2025), International Society of the Learning Sciences
• NSF-funded ‘Writing Data Stories’ postdoctoral research (2017–2020)

Teaching & Mentorship: Lanouette teaches courses on education research, science pedagogy, and applied conservation sciences. She mentors students through interdisciplinary projects, such as the NSF-funded ‘Writing Data Stories’ initiative and NOAA’s Teacher at Sea program.

Labs/Teams: Collaborations include partnerships with UC Berkeley’s Science Education Lab, museums, and K-12 schools to develop place-responsive curricula and community-driven data projects.