My primary research interests are in Developmental Psychology. I joined York St John University as a Lecturer in Psychology in 2016. Prior to joining York St. John I completed my PhD at the University of Birmingham in 2012. Supervised by Dr Sarah Beck and Professor Ian Apperly, my PhD investigated children’s tool innovation and problem solving. Following my PhD I was a named Research Fellow on the ESRC funded grant ‘(Re)Inventing the wheel: the development of tool innovation’.
Academic qualifications
- PhD in Psychology, University of Birmingham, 2012
- BSc (hons) Psychology, University of Sheffield, 2008
I teach on Developmental Psychology modules across all levels of our programmes. Including the following modules:
- PPSY5002M Infant and Child Development
- PSY6019M Lifespan Development
- PSY7003M Child Development
We all know that children are brilliant at learning to use tools. By copying others, children quickly master how to use a spoon, a cup and even an iPad. In contrast to children’s ability to learn from others, children are surprisingly poor at working things out for themselves. My research investigates the difficulties children have with innovating simple novel tools to solve problems. The evolution of human culture (tools in particular) is due to our faithful imitation of others actions, and innovations. Much research has focused on our ability to replicate what we see, but much less is known about innovations. My research focuses on why innovation is so difficult and what makes someone an innovator.
Current students
- Alex Bond
- Lisa Parfitt
- Debra Fayter
- Darcy Neilson
Recent publications
Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.
Recognised Senior Advisor UK Advising and Tutoring (UKAT).
Member of the Experimental Psychology Society.
