American Education Research Association Honors Barbara Means for Outstanding Educational Technology Research

MENLO PARK, Calif., March 31, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- In recognition of her leadership as a researcher whose studies help teachers advance student learning of critical skills, the American Educational Research Association (AERA) has selected Barbara Means, Ph.D., educational psychologist and co-director of SRI International's Center for Technology in Learning, as an AERA Fellow. AERA is the country's premier association for educational research. Its Fellows program is a prestigious honor, recognizing outstanding and sustained research contributions.

Means is shaping education policy at a critical time. According to a recent State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA) report, technology "is playing an increasingly important role in K-12 school improvement efforts in local communities in each of the 50 states."

At SRI, Means directs programs that support the U.S. Department of Education's educational technology efforts, including development of the 2010 National Education Technology Plan, Transforming American Education: Learning Powered by Technology.

AERA Fellows are selected on the basis of peer nomination and approval by the association's selection committee. This year, 31 new Fellows will be inducted on April 9, 2011 during AERA's 92nd Annual Meeting in New Orleans.

About SRI International's Education Research

SRI International conducts education research in three main areas: education reform, education policy, and the application of technology to improve education. Our researchers study reforms that hold promise for improving the K-16 system of schooling and lifelong learning. They evaluate the design, implementation and impact of educational programs, especially those targeted at disadvantaged students. We also undertake projects to examine the design, implementation and impact of policies, programs and practices in the areas of early childhood, special education, school partnerships, and community services and strategies. One of our goals is to improve teaching and learning by conducting research on the innovative design, use and assessment of interactive learning environments. A particular focus is helping educational technology firms improve their products by providing research insights and strengthening educational designs.

About SRI International

Silicon Valley-based SRI International, a nonprofit research and development organization, performs sponsored R&D for governments, businesses, and foundations. SRI brings its innovations to the marketplace through technology licensing, new products, and spin-off ventures. Commemorating its 65th anniversary in 2011, SRI is known for world-changing innovations in computing, health and pharmaceuticals, chemistry and materials, sensing, energy, education, national defense, and more.

SOURCE SRI International