Undergraduate Opportunities
Summer 2025 Research Opportunities with Dr. Kier
Join one or more projects to gain hands-on research experience and enhance your academic and
professional journey. Here is a list of exciting opportunities available during the Summer of 2025:
1. AI & Middle School Math Collaboration
Work with: Dr. Kier (School of Education) & Dr. Zhang (Computer Science)
What you'll do: Investigate how middle school students collaborate with AI buddies and human peers while solving math tasks. You'll delve into the dynamics of these interactions and contribute to research that bridges education and technology.
Great for: Students interested in education, AI, and cognitive science
2. AI Ambassadors Project
Work with: Dr. Kier (School of Education), Dr. Johnson (School of Education), & Dr. Zhang
(Computer Science).
What you'll do: Collaborate with Williamsburg-James City County teachers to explore effective ways to integrate AI into STEM and humanities curricula. This project focuses on curriculum innovation and teacher development.
Great for: Those interested in AI in education, curriculum design, and teacher development.
3. STEM Mentorship & Career Identity
Work with: Dr. Kier (School of Education)
What you'll do: Serve as a paid mentor and co-researcher in July, working with youth in Newport
News Public Schools. Reflect on how this mentorship shapes your career identity while gaining
invaluable teaching and leadership experience.
Great for: STEM majors looking for paid experience in mentoring and educational research.
4. STEM Teacher Retention Study
Work with: Dr. Kier (School of Education)
What you'll do: Conduct interviews with secondary STEM teachers who have remained in high need public schools beyond three years. Your goal will be to uncover key factors in teacher retention and contribute to meaningful educational policy discussions.
Great for: Those interested in teacher workforce studies, qualitative research, and educational
policy.
5. Equity & Inclusion in STEM Teacher Preparation
Work with: Dr. Kier (School of Education)
What you'll do: Collect and analyze data from STEM teacher candidates in July to understand how
they position themselves toward equitable and inclusive teaching practices. This project supports
diversity and inclusion in education.
Great for: Students interested in teacher preparation, diversity in STEM education, and research
methodologies.
Interested? Here’s How to Get Involved!
To apply or learn more: Email Dr. Kier at mwkier@wm.edu
Compensation: Some opportunities are paid; all provide valuable research experience! These projects not only offer a chance to engage deeply with your interests but also to make a meaningful impact in the education sector. Whether you're looking to dive into AI's role in education or explore critical issues in STEM teaching, these opportunities will enrich your academic and professional growth.
