Dr. Michael Horn

Professor

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Biography

Michael Horn is a Professor in the Computer Science Learning Sciences department at Northwestern University and directs the Tangible Interaction Design Learning (TIDAL) Lab. His research focuses on the design of interactive technologies that foster innovative learning experiences, with a particular emphasis on tangible and embodied interaction. He has held key roles in various academic programs including serving as Program Coordinator for the Learning Sciences PhD Program and co-founding the Joint PhD Program in Computer Science and Learning Sciences. In addition to his editorial work with the International Journal of Child-Computer Interaction, he has contributed extensively to the ACM Transactions on Computer-Human Interaction as an associate editor. His projects have been recognized in major exhibitions and have led to the development of educational products like Osmo Coding and Kibo Robotics. The TIDAL Lab also produced TunePad, enabling communities to explore music through Python coding. Michael’s academic contributions are reflected in multiple publications and awards, signifying his impact on the field of educational technology.

Research Interests

Awards

#2025

Charles Deering McCormick Professor Teaching Excellence

#2024

Computer Science Instructor Year Award

#2023

Daniel Linzer Award for Faculty Excellence in Diversity Equity

#2021

Paper Award—ACM CHI Conference

#2018

Edith Ackermann Award for Outstanding Achievement—ACM IDC Conference

#2018

Paper Honorable Mention Award—ACM CHI Conference

#2016

Place Showcase Award—Games Learning, Society Conference

#2016

Learning Game Nominee—Games Change Conference

#2016

Honorable Mention Late Breaking Work Paper—ACM CHI Conference

#2015

National Science Foundation CAREER Award

#2015

Paper Award—ACM CHI Conference

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.