Lecia Jane Barker

Lecia Jane Barker is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Colorado Boulder's College of Engineering and Applied Science, with additional affiliation with the National Center for Women and Information Technology. With over two decades of research in computer science education, her work has evolved from examining classroom climate issues to comprehensive studies on student retention, service learning, and diversity in computing.

Her research interests focus on creating inclusive computing environments through evidence-based approaches. Barker has pioneered work on understanding defensive climates in CS classrooms, developing strategies for recruiting and retaining women in computing, and implementing service learning experiences that connect computer science education with community needs. Recent work examines student belonging in remote learning environments, interdisciplinary transfer in programming education, and data privacy concerns in learning management systems.

Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on practical, evidence-based approaches to improving CS education. Her work consistently addresses the intersection of pedagogy, diversity, and technological innovation, with increasing attention to service learning as a mechanism for engaging students with real-world problems. The trend shows growing collaboration with interdisciplinary teams examining both the technical and social dimensions of computing education.

Barker has been instrumental in developing tools and frameworks adopted by CS departments nationwide, including evidence-based surveys for identifying causes of student attrition and methodologies for investigating women's course choices in computing programs.

Her extensive service to the CS education community includes leadership roles in major conferences like SIGCSE and ITiCSE, where she regularly presents research and facilitates workshops on improving CS education practices. She has secured significant funding for projects addressing critical challenges in computing education, particularly those related to diversity and inclusion.