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Efrat Ayalon

PhD Student, Teaching and Learning
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Critical computer science literacies, Embodied learning, Mixed-reality environments


Efrat is a PhD student at Vanderbilt University, specializing in learning and design with a strong background in mathematics. Her research critically examines gender issues in computer science and their effects on its community’s practices. Efrat’s work focuses on introducing expansive practices to computer science education through embodiment and computational thinking.

 Prior to Vanderbilt, Efrat led the algorithm analysis team at Via, a TransitTech startup that powers cost-effective, convenient, and equitable mobility worldwide. Efrat is a proud member of the HIVE Lab. Under Dr. Noel Enyedy’s guidance, she contributes to innovative projects like GEM-STEP, a mixed-reality environment where students use their bodies to play-act scientific phenomena. Efrat is also involved in exploring AI applications for interaction analysis and embodied learning. As part of LIVE, her multifaceted research promotes equity and justice, working to disrupt traditional science and technology narratives.