Emily Borda , PhD

Director of SMATE

Research Interests

My research is broadly aimed at investigating how students build mental models of chemical phenomena. I am interested in gaining understanding about the roles a student's tacit understanding, conceptual organization, and epistemology of science (what science is, how scientific knowledge is generated and used) play in the construction of their models. My ultimate goal is to develop classroom and laboratory activities that help students build more coherent, useful models of chemical ideas.

Educational & Professional Experience

  • B.S. Gonzaga University, 1998.
  • M.Ed. University of Washington, 2004.
  • Ph.D. University of Washington, 2004.
  • Postdoctoral Research Associate, North Cascades and Olympics Science Partnership, Western Washington University, 2004-2005.