معرفی
Merredith Portsmore serves as Research Associate Professor at Tufts University's School of Engineering, Center for Engineering Education Outreach (CEEO), and as Associate Professor in University College Administration. She has held these positions since 2020 and 2025 respectively, while also directing the CEEO since 2015. Her academic journey at Tufts spans multiple departments including Mechanical Engineering, Education, and Engineering Education.
Her educational background reflects a unique interdisciplinary path:
- Ph.D. in Engineering Education, Tufts University (2010)
- M.A. in Education, Tufts University (1999)
- B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Tufts University (1998)
- B.A. in English, Tufts University
Portsmore's research centers on K-12 engineering education, specifically examining how children engage in constructing solutions to engineering design problems. Her work bridges theory and practice through the development of outreach programs that translate engineering concepts for classroom implementation. She investigates learning through teaching methodologies and focuses on creating practical resources for educators to integrate engineering into existing curricula. Her approach emphasizes student-centered design thinking and the development of engineering identity among young learners, with particular attention to gender differences and inclusive practices in STEM education.
Analysis of her recent publications reveals a consistent focus on teacher development in engineering education, with increasing attention to online professional development models. Her work examines how teachers' pedagogical reasoning evolves through engagement with engineering concepts, and how engineering outreach programs can be structured to foster authentic student engagement. Recent publications show growing interest in engineering ethics, cellular agriculture education, and the integration of engineering with literacy development.
Her recognition includes:
- Tufts Teaching With Technology Award (2018)
Portsmore has secured substantial funding from the National Science Foundation, LEGO Foundation, USDA, and other organizations to support her work in K-12 engineering education. Her grant portfolio demonstrates a sustained commitment to developing teacher capacity, creating innovative curriculum resources, and studying the impact of engineering education on student learning and identity formation. She has developed numerous educational programs including STOMP (Student Teacher Outreach Mentorship Program), LEGO Engineering.com, and the online Teacher Engineering Education Program.
As Director of the CEEO, Portsmore oversees a hub for engineering education research and development that connects university resources with K-12 classrooms. The center develops curriculum materials, provides professional development for educators, and conducts research on engineering learning across multiple age groups. Her leadership has established the CEEO as a nationally recognized center for innovative approaches to engineering education.
