Dr. Deborah Mccutchen

Biography

Deborah McCutchen is an Emeritus Professor whose research focuses on the cognitive processes underlying reading and writing abilities. Her work addresses complex systems of knowledge utilized in reading and writing, exploring how these elements influence content knowledge and the constraints of working memory in the writing process. McCutchen's research has included fundamental studies on the roles of phonology and morphology in reading, with recent projects investigating the knowledge that teachers of reading and writing incorporate into instructional practices. Her ultimate research goals are twofold: to deepen the theoretical understanding of reading and writing processes and to enhance educational practices accordingly. Sparked by her experiences as a writing teacher, her ongoing research is supported by the Institute of Education Sciences and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, focusing on the foundational linguistic processes that enable children to expand their vocabulary and enhance their reading and writing skills. Currently, her work examines the knowledge that skilled teachers of writing depend on to guide their instructional methods and interactions with students. McCutchen teaches graduate courses in psychology, reading, writing, and human learning.

Research Interests