In the Optimized Algorithms and Knowledge (OAK) Lab we study how people learn and how variability in the learners' characteristics (their motivation, knowledge, and metacognition) and what they are learning affects learning processes and outcomes.  

We use laboratory and classroom-controlled experiments to study the cognitive and motivational processes involved in learning, and data analytics of large-scale naturalistic learning data to uncover patterns in behavior. We develop precise computational models of the cognitive and motivational processes involved in learning. We apply these models to educational technology and to develop interventions.

The Lab is in the Human-Computer Interaction Institute at Carnegie Mellon University.

Our logo was created by Jane Hu.