Stephen Cooper

Stephen Cooper serves as Executive Director of the Jeffrey S. Raikes School of Computer Science and Management and holds professorships in the School of Computing and Teaching, Learning & Teacher Education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He previously served as Associate Professor (Teaching) at Stanford University's Computer Science Department and worked in NSF's Division of Undergraduate Education.

Education: Ph.D. and M.S. in Computer Science from Syracuse University; B.A. in Mathematics and Chemistry from Cornell University.

Research focuses on computer science education, particularly program visualization and student learning processes. He is renowned for co-developing Alice, a 3D programming environment for novices, and related curricular materials like Learning to Program with Alice. Current projects include secure coding education, spatial skills' impact on computing performance, and middle school CS curricula through the FACT initiative.

Advances include NSF program management experience, leadership in K-12 outreach, and collaborations on spatial skills research with underrepresented groups through the Girl Code workshop. Active in professional service, including editorial roles and conference organization.