Department of Curriculum & Instruction

Dr. Kathryn E. Starkes' research focuses on concept-based, integrative approaches to authentic curricular design and environmental influence in educational settings. Her philosophy of teaching methodolgy promotes learning through discovery-of-concepts, understanding concepts-in-context and knowledgably-demonstrated skills. Her current work emphasizes the preparation, induction and mentorship of novice teachers. Dr. Starkes is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction and a Cohort Coordinator for preservice teacher education specializing in grades EC-6 with ESL certification.

Dr. Starkes received her Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin in Curriculum Studies specializing in conceptual integration of content and standards with math and science foundations. She also received her Masters Degree in Instructional Technology and Curriculum Studies as well as her Bachelors Degree in Applied Learning and Development and Biology from the University of Texas at Austin. A former elementary teacher and curriculum developer, Dr. Starkes now teaches undergraduate methods courses such as Teaching Young Children and School Organization coupled with overseeing the preparation of UT elementary preservice teachers. She was the 2012 recipient of the Texas Exes Teaching Award for the College of Education. She is also a Warren Fellow with Holocaust Museum Houston where she facilitates the preparation of future and novice teachers in integrating concepts such as social cruelty into their instructional discourse with the primary and adolescent student.

Ph.D., Curriculum Studies, University of Texas at Austin, 2009

M.A., Curriculum Studies & Instructional Technology, University of Texas at Austin, 2005

B.S., Applied Learning & Development & Biology, University of Texas at Austin, 2003

• Texas Exes Teaching Award for the College of Education, 2012