PhD in Education - Learning Sciences and Psychological Studies in Charlotte United States | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The Learning Sciences and Psychological Studies (LSPS) doctoral program builds upon the emerging interdisciplinary field of learning sciences, which bridges academic disciplines and professional practices. Faculty members come from varied academic traditions including critical theory, educational psychology, psychometrics, school psychology, socio-cultural studies, STEM education, technology research, and statistical methods. LSPS investigates learning as a complex process involving cognition, social interaction, and cultural influences, distributed among individuals and groups within specific environments. The program explores both structured and unstructured learning across diverse settings (classrooms, community centers, homes, museums, schools, and digital spaces) through multiple theoretical lenses (critical, disciplinary, design-based, and various philosophical approaches). Research employs rigorous quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methodologies tailored to specific inquiries. This scholarly work aims to understand learning processes and their relationship with knowledge systems, social networks, institutional structures, technological tools, and cultural influences. The ultimate objectives include advancing theoretical frameworks, conducting impactful research, shaping educational policies, and improving practices to create inclusive learning environments that maximize opportunities for all participants in formal and informal educational contexts.