Debra L. Smarkusky

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Debra L. Smarkusky is a computer science educator and researcher whose work centers on interdisciplinary learning, robotics, and undergraduate research. Her most cited paper, "Performing Robots" (2013), with 4 citations, exemplifies her core contribution: using robotics as a platform to fuse computer science with the arts and humanities. Smarkusky argues that such interdisciplinary projects are not merely technical exercises; they are powerful engines for cultivating creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in students. By challenging undergraduates to design and program robots for performative contexts, she has pioneered a pedagogical model that breaks down traditional academic silos, promoting an innovation-oriented culture. Her work is notable for its emphasis on making computer science accessible and engaging, demonstrating that technical rigor can coexist with artistic expression. While her citation count is modest, her impact is deeply felt in the classroom and in curriculum design, where she has inspired a generation of students to see computing as a creative, collaborative endeavor. Smarkusky’s research stands as a testament to the value of hands-on, project-based learning in higher education.