Dr. Nicole Sparapani

Associate Professor

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Biography

Nicole Sparapani is an Associate Professor at the University of California, Davis, in the School of Education and the MIND Institute. Her research focuses on enhancing educational outcomes for neurodivergent learners, particularly those on the autism spectrum. With a background in speech-language pathology and developmental psychology, she utilizes dynamic transactional models to examine how children interact within classroom environments. Dr. Sparapani has developed multiple IES-funded classroom observation systems meant to improve teacher-student interactions and measure their effects on developmental and academic outcomes. She leads projects investigating interactions between elementary teachers and both autistic and non-autistic students, aiming to foster inclusive learning environments. Her methodological strengths include observational research and individualized educational program development for neurodivergent students. Dr. Sparapani is also involved in training and mentoring future researchers in autism and related fields, contributing to several academic committees and initiatives dedicated to supporting students with developmental disabilities.

Research Interests

Experience

Associate Professor

2016-08-01 — Present

University of California, Davis • Davis, CA

Teaching and conducting research in the School of Education and the MIND Institute.

Educational Consultant

2015-01-01 — 2016-08-01

Learning Ovations, Inc. • Tempe, Arizona

Provided consultancy in educational improvements.

Postdoctoral Research Scholar

2013-01-01 — 2016-01-01

Arizona State University • Tempe, AZ

Conducted research on developmental psychology.

Awards

#

Hellman Fellowship Award

2020-01-01
#

Dean's Research Excellence Award

2018-01-01

Requirements for University of California, Davis

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Listening
Required:20
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:80
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field ECS 120 (Theory of Computation) ECS 122A (Algorithm Design and Analysis) ECS 140A (Programming Languages) or ECS 160 (Software Engineering) ECS 150 (Operating Systems) or ECS 154B (Computer Architecture)
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Application fee
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Personal History Statement
  • CV/Resume
Specialization Notes

Department of Computer Science. GRE is NOT required.