Field-defining scholarship in CT & K-12 CS. Advanced the conceptual and empirical foundations of computational thinking and its integration with core subjects; blended learning-sciences theory with classroom realities to shape what "good learning" looks like in K-12 CS. Awarded the 2024 Henry & Bryna James David Award from the US National Academies Division of Behavioral and Science Sciences and Education (DBASSE), an annual award recognizing a researcher who has drawn insights from the behavioral & social sciences to inform public policy.
Bridge between research and practice. Turned evidence into usable curricula, PD, and tools (e.g., CT progressions, assessment rubrics, teacher supports) that teachers can use. Created the "Computer Science in K-12: An A–Z handbook on teaching programming" that distills a sprawling landscape of content, pedagogies, and practices into coherent explanations with concrete examples for all grade bands.
Assessment and measurement leadership. Designed practical, valid ways to assess CT/CS learning (from item banks to mixed-methods and sequence-mining approaches)
STEM+Computing integration with CT, data, and modeling. Designed STEM+C integrated learning experiences for PK-12, and showed how modeling, simulation, and data practices deepen science and math learning.

AI education pioneer for schools. Design principles, curricula, and teacher PD for teaching AI (especially in middle and high school).

Equity, belonging, and human-centered design. Centering culturally responsive pedagogy, role-model narratives, and student agency; designs for access in both formal and out-of-school contexts globally.

Field building & thought leadership. Participated in multi-stakeholder coalitions, convened shared agendas, and wrote for broad audiences (blogs, briefs, policy notes).

Global impact. Worked across geographies and systems (US, India, Europe, etc.), adapting frameworks to local contexts while maintaining fidelity to evidence.

Mentorship & community cultivation. Championed teachers, early-career researchers, and practitioners—expanding capacity through PD, open resources, and collaborative RPPs.