Dr. Kayla Desportes

Associate Professor

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Biography

Kayla DesPortes is an Associate Professor in the Department of Administration, Leadership, and Technology at New York University Steinhardt. Her research focuses on Human-Computer Interaction and Learning Sciences, emphasizing the transformation of computing technology and learning opportunities to empower marginalized communities. With a background in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Cornell University and a PhD in Human-Centered Computing from the Georgia Institute of Technology, Kayla employs collaborative and community-centered approaches to address exclusionary practices within educational technology. Her work integrates data literacy with artistic practices to engage learners in meaningful, creative expressions that explore their identities and social justice issues. She leads several National Science Foundation grants aimed at co-designing educational tools and resources that foster equity-oriented design and support youth in analyzing social media narratives. Kayla is actively involved in educational and community organizations that promote inclusivity in STEM fields, bridging the gap between technology and the artistic community through innovative projects and participatory research.

Research Interests

Courses

User Experience Design Design Process Learning Experiences Tangible Electronics Teaching and Learning Vertically Integrated Projects

Requirements for New York University Steinhardt

Doctorate Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Total
Required:100
Prerequisites
Master's degree preferred but not required for 54-credit track
Application Checklist
  • Résumé/CV
  • MCC Essay (Research Area/Topic)
  • Writing Sample (Master's thesis or equivalent)
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Official Transcripts
  • English Proficiency Exam (if applicable)
Specialization Notes

Department of Media, Culture, and Communication - PhD Program focusing on Global and Transcultural Studies, Technology and Society, and Visual Culture.