Teresa L. Larkin

Teresa L. Larkin serves as Associate Professor of Physics Education at American University and Director of the Dual-Degree Engineering Program affiliated with Columbia University’s School of Engineering and Applied Science. Her academic leadership spans curriculum development and interdisciplinary program coordination.

Research Interests: Dr. Larkin specializes in Physics Education Research (PER), with emphasis on assessment methodologies for introductory physics and engineering courses. Her innovative work integrates student writing as a dual-purpose learning and evaluation tool, particularly for non-majors. Additional expertise includes gender dynamics in engineering leadership and digital-age pedagogical challenges.

Publication Trends: Her scholarly output bridges physics education, cognitive science, and gender studies, reflecting interdisciplinary approaches to modern teaching challenges. Recent work examines technology’s impact on learning behaviors and systemic barriers for women in engineering.

Awards:

• ASEE Distinguished Educator and Service Award (1998)
• NSF ASEE Visiting Scholar (2000-2001)
• AU Outstanding Teaching Award (2000)
• Milton and Sonia Greenberg Award (2013)
• ASEE Academy of Fellows (2016)
• International Engineering Educator Honoris Causa (2018)

Professional Engagement: With 25+ years in ASEE and AAPT, Dr. Larkin held ASEE Board positions including Vice President of Professional Interest Councils (1997-1999). Her grants and leadership include the Columbia-affiliated Dual-Degree Program oversight and NSF-funded scholarly initiatives.

Academic Environment: She contributes to American University’s Physics Department curriculum development and pedagogical innovation, particularly in courses like PHYS-100 and PHYS-230, while mentoring through the Dual-Degree Engineering framework.