Thomas B. Horton

Thomas B. Horton is an Associate Professor and Academic General Faculty member in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Virginia (UVA), serving as the Teaching Track Associate Department Chair. He joined UVA in 2001 after 13 years at Florida Atlantic University. His expertise spans computer science education, digital humanities, and software engineering. Horton holds a B.S. from the University of Tennessee (1982) and a Ph.D. from the University of Edinburgh (1987), supported by a Marshall Scholarship.

His teaching portfolio includes courses on programming, algorithms, software engineering, and human-computer interaction. He emphasizes innovative pedagogical approaches, such as integrating LEGO MINDSTORMS and Android into software engineering education. Horton’s research in digital humanities involves computational analysis of literary texts, including authorship attribution using stylometry.

Horton has received multiple teaching and service awards, including the Department Service Award (UVA, 2004-2005) and Excellence in Teaching accolades from Florida Atlantic University (1991, 1998). He is committed to leadership roles, contributing to UVA’s focus on undergraduate education while maintaining research engagement.

• Research Focus: Computing education innovations, software engineering pedagogy, and digital humanities (e.g., language patterns in literature).
• Publications: Over 20 works, including studies on curriculum design, project-based learning, and domain modeling.
• Awards:
  • Marshall Scholarship (1982)
  • Torchbearer Award, UT (1982)
  • UVA Department Service Award (2004-2005)
• Grants & Service: Extensive service in academic leadership, curriculum development, and departmental governance.