Developmental Processes & Outcomes

several children at a table

We study the social and developmental contexts of learning and development starting in early childhood through young adulthood. Our research focuses on how socio-economic status, including income and education, and race/ethnicity shape child and adolescent development.

Our research aims to examine the impact of key contexts that shape learning and socio-emotional development across the life course, including families, communities, and schools. For example, we use observational and experimental methodologies in the home and we examine how parents support their children's acquisition of math and literacy skills through everyday activities. We consider factors that may serve as barriers to high quality learning opportunities starting in toddlerhood and extending through young adulthood. In particular, we use multiple methodologies, including lab-based developmental neuroscience methods and large secondary data analysis to understand how children's brains are impacted by stressful early environments. We then examine the implications of these environments for subsequent motivation and academic achievement, particularly for at-risk youth.

Our research aims to contribute to a just and equitable society and to building a future where everyone has the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to fully participate in society and thrive.

Read more about LRDC's Commitment to Equity.

Related Research Areas:
Cognitive & Neural Foundations of Learning Educational Opportunities, Equity, & Attainment Informal & Life-long Learning Motivation & Engagement Reading & Language
Related Research Interests:
Community & Family-based Learning Developmental Neuroscience Socio-cultural Factors

Researchers Associated with this Area