We contribute to education and research training across disciplines, including both undergraduate and graduate students receiving degrees in various departments, as well as post-docs and research staff.
Research Opportunities: We conduct basic research on domain-general learning processes. We also study learning in specific educationally important domains, including reading and literacy, language learning, science learning, and the development of mathematical understanding. Graduate students participate in all these activities alongside the faculty who mentor them.
Methodologies: At LRDC, students broaden their knowledge about quantitative and qualitative research methods, as well as methodologies specific to their field(s) of study. Psychology and Neuroscience students use methodologies such as behavioral responses, reaction times, eye tracking, electroencephalography (EEG), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and magnetoencephalography (MEG).
University of Pittsburgh Post Doctoral Fellows: The scientific training and professional career development of postdocs are supported by a variety of institutional programs and services. Visit the University of Pittsburgh Postdoctoral Training.
At LRDC, undergraduate students from varying departments across campus gain exposure to various aspects of the research process, such as data collection, data entry, data analysis, and presentations. Undergraduate students join LRDC through the following programs:
First Approaches to Research: In the First Approaches to Research (FA-R) program, students can gain meaningful, hands-on research experience working with faculty in their very first year.
Directed Research: The Department of Psychology's Directed Research allows students to work with faculty and graduate students in approved labs where students gain exposure to various aspects of the research.
The BPhil Honor's Thesis: The Bachelor of Philosophy (BPhil) Honor's Thesis is a highly regarded credential that requires a rigorous curriculum and independent research (under the guidance of a dedicated faculty mentor).
LRDC Undergraduate Science of Learning Transcript Distinction: Unlock Your Potential with the new Undergraduate Transcript Distinction in the Learning Sciences! Develop understanding of learning processes and the factors that shape successful learning. See the Science of Learning Transcript Distinction page for more information.
LRDC offers undergraduates an opportunity to participate in training in the Learning Sciences. LRDC Learning Sciences REU students will gain experience in the Learning Sciences (research on instruction and learning) by working on a project with a faculty member who specializes in this area. For more details, visit the Learning Sciences REU webpage.
The Learning Research & Development Center (LRDC) is committed to training students of all backgrounds in our undergraduate and graduate training programs, faculty labs, and all faculty research.
Committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (CODIE): Builds racial and cultural competence within ourselves, our units, and our organization to support culturally and linguistically responsive, equitable practices and to have every member of LRDC accountable for this goal. Learn more about the Committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (CODIE).
Psychology Committee on Equity, Inclusion, and Community (PEIC): Open to faculty, students, and staff, the PEIC plays a key role in building and supporting a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community of scholars. For more information, visit the PEIC website.
Hot Metal Bridge Program: This two-semester post-baccalaureate fellowship program is designed to help talented students from groups traditionally underrepresented in their academic disciplines. Apply for Hot Metal Bridge Program here.
LRDC Graduate Student Council: The LRDC Graduate Student Council (GSC) is comprised of representatives from all disciplines in the Center to provide students with opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration, professional development, representation at LRDC Executive Committee meetings, and social opportunities.
In distributing funds, LRDC GSC members value applications with clearly defined goals and objectives that demonstrate how LRDC financial support for conference attendance or a research project will advance applicants' academic and professional development. We value projects that demonstrate collaboration with other LRDC graduate students and faculty, especially those located outside applicants' main research teams. In considering conference funding, applicants who have been accepted to present papers and participate in roundtable discussions will be prioritized, though applicants presenting posters are encouraged to apply. Read about the GSC award and recipients.
With questions or concerns, please reach out to Paras Sharma at pas252@pitt.edu. Award recipients should contact Director of Administration Anthony Taliani, taliani@pitt.edu, for instructions on award disbursement.
Presentations: In addition to publishing papers in renowned journals, graduate students present papers and posters at national and international conferences and the University of Pittsburgh Grad Expo, and the Computational Medicine Conference.
Professional Development: A faculty-student Professional Development Committee in the Psychology Department helps to ensure that students have the support and resources they need to explore and nurture career options. This committee offers workshops open to all students.