Tamara Sumner

Tamara Sumner is a Professor at the Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Colorado. Her research focuses on leveraging AI and educational technology to improve teaching practices, particularly in STEM education, and fostering equitable learning opportunities. She co-leads the Institute for Student-AI Teaming (iSAT), reimagining AI's role in education. Her work emphasizes classroom discourse analysis, teacher professional development, and rural STEM pathways.

Key research areas include:

• AI tools for automating feedback on teacher-student interactions
• Equity-focused learning analytics and visualizations
• Rural youth engagement in STEM through community partnerships
• Integration of computational thinking and sensor technologies in K-12 curricula

Her recent articles highlight advancements in automated discourse analysis, equity-driven tools like the SEET system, and AI-augmented tutoring models. She has contributed to grants such as the BIGDATA: IA initiative (2018) and co-designed programs like DaSH Home for remote learning. Her work bridges research and practice, involving educators and communities in co-design processes.

Current initiatives aim to address systemic inequities through technology, such as visual learning analytics for classroom reflection and STEM career pathways for underserved rural populations.