Rachel Schecter Headshot 002

Rachel L. Schechter, PhD

VP Learning Sciences, Learning Sciences and Research Advisory Board Chair

Dr. Rachel L Schechter is HMH’s Vice President of Learning Sciences. Rachel has been an applied researcher for multimedia educational programing for learners of all ages since 2007. Her research examines motivation, feedback, and learning in blended learning environments, and she has published several research articles evaluating formal and informal educational programming. As the chair of HMH’s Learning Science and Research Advisory Board, Rachel brings together scholars from around the country to discuss critical trends in educational research to inform product development. Rachel leads a team, Applied Learning Sciences, that brings research from national and international conferences, publications, and events to HMH staff. Rachel holds a doctorate in Child Development from Tufts University and a Masters of Arts in Education from Harvard University.

 
Differentiation remote learning

Why Is Differentiated Instruction Important During COVID-19?

Research says targeted, differentiated instruction is a powerful way to address learning loss and teach new material—even in a remote classroom setting.

Rachel L. Schechter, PhD
VP Learning Sciences, Learning Sciences and Research Advisory Board Chair

WF1278015 Learning Science Myth Hero

Is the 10,000-Hour Rule True? How to Help Your Students Achieve Mastery

As the myth goes, 10,000 hours of practice leads to mastery of a skill. But is the 10,000-hour rule true? Simply put, not just any kind of practice leads to mastery, but deliberate practice with feedback.

Rachel L. Schechter, PhD
VP Learning Sciences, Learning Sciences and Research Advisory Board Chair

Left brain right brain myth debunked

Left-Brain Right-Brain Myth, Debunked: Foster Creativity and Logic in the Classroom

Left-brain right-brain myth, debunked—understand how the areas of the brain work together in complex ways and why we are not, generally, left- or right-brain dominated.

Rachel L. Schechter, PhD
VP Learning Sciences, Learning Sciences and Research Advisory Board Chair

WF1172857 Fixed vs Growth Mindset Hero Opt3

Do Your Students Have a Fixed Mindset or Growth Mindset? The Answer Is Both

Get the truth about fixed vs. growth mindsets and try our strategies to foster an environment where students feel empowered to learn.

Rachel L. Schechter, PhD
VP Learning Sciences, Learning Sciences and Research Advisory Board Chair

Jessica McKeown, PhD
HMH Senior Learning Scientist, Math and Science

Screentime blog

Too Much Screen Time? Here Are 4 Ways to Maximize It for Learning

Allow four questions to guide you as you evaluate the media your students are using so you can maximize their learning.

Rachel L. Schechter, PhD
VP Learning Sciences, Learning Sciences and Research Advisory Board Chair

Myth of multitasking

Is It Possible to Multitask? Time Management Insights and Tips for Teachers

Answering a key question—"Is it possible to multitask?"—can help you better manage your time as a teacher. Dive into research and debunk the myth of multitasking.

Rachel L. Schechter, PhD
VP Learning Sciences, Learning Sciences and Research Advisory Board Chair

Learning styles debunked 2

Fact or Fiction? The Myth That We Have Specific Learning Styles, Debunked

The myth that we all have specific learning styles, debunked—research shows that 90% of teachers believe the learning styles myth.

Rachel L. Schechter, PhD
VP Learning Sciences, Learning Sciences and Research Advisory Board Chair

Learning sciences complex

Why Is Applying Learning Science So Complex for Teachers?

To kick off a blog series focused on debunking learning sciences myths, HMH's VP of Learning Sciences explores the four learning pillars for teachers to maximize student outcomes.

Rachel L. Schechter, PhD
VP Learning Sciences, Learning Sciences and Research Advisory Board Chair