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Brian Smith is the Honorable David S. Nelson Professional Chair and Associate Dean for Research at the Lynch School of Education and Human Development, Boston College, and a Professor of Information Science and Education. His research interests include the design of computer-based learning environments, human-computer interaction, design sciences, out-of-school learning, creativity and innovation, and computer science education. Earlier, he served as senior associate dean of academic affairs at Drexel University’s College of Computing & Informatics, and as program director in the Division of Research on Learning at the National Science Foundation (NSF).

Brian co-directs Boston College’s M.A. in Learning Engineering, a new program on applying the principles and methods that guide student learning to design engaging and effective learning experiences.  A 1991 graduate of the University of California at Los Angeles in computer science and engineering, Smith earned a Ph.D. in learning sciences from Northwestern University. He began his academic career at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Media Lab, followed by appointments at Pennsylvania State University as associate professor of information sciences and technology, and the Rhode Island School of Design as dean of continuing education, where he oversaw the development of art and design programs for youth and adults, and was a co-investigator in RISD’s “STEM to STEAM” initiative.