Dr. David Rapp

Professor

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Biography

David N. Rapp is the Walter Dill Scott Professor of Learning Sciences at Northwestern University, where he contributes to both the School of Education and Social Policy and the Department of Psychology. His research primarily explores the intersection of language and memory, focusing on cognitive mechanisms that enable successful knowledge acquisition and address failures in learning. Rapp investigates how prior knowledge, visual materials, and learning goals affect discourse processes, employing evaluation technologies meant to support both formal and informal learning contexts. His published works have analyzed memory's reliance on plausibility and credibility, with collaborative discussions in educational settings being a key focus. He has co-edited a significant volume on the cognitive science of processing inaccurate information in educational frameworks. His research initiatives, which have garnered funding from prestigious bodies such as the National Science Foundation, have led to awards including the McKnight Land-Grant Professor Award and recognition as a fellow of the Association for Psychological Science. Rapp serves as an associate editor for the Journal of Educational Psychology and as editor for Discourse Processes.

Research Interests

Awards

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American Psychological Association Fellow Division 15

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Undergraduate Research Assistant Program Award (URAP)

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Outstanding Professor Award

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Gratitude Honor Service

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Fellow

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Undergraduate Research Assistant Program (URAP) Award

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Undergraduate Research Assistant Program (URAP) Award

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Midwestern Psychological Association (MPA) Fellow

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Undergraduate Research Assistant Program (URAP) Award

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Tom Trabasso Young Investigator Award

Requirements for Northwestern University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
U.S. Bachelor's degree or equivalent
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Resume/CV
  • TOEFL/IELTS scores (if applicable)
Specialization Notes

Standard PhD requirements for TGS departments including Chemistry, Physics, and Sociology.