As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, I can provide a list of influential figures in educational psychology during the more recent years. Keep in mind that the field is dynamic, and new thought leaders may have emerged since then. The following people have made substantial contributions to the field either through their research, theories, or applications:
- Angela Duckworth: Known for her work on grit, a non-cognitive trait defined as perseverance and passion for long-term goals.
- Carol Dweck: Developed the concept of “mindset” in her research, distinguishing between a “fixed mindset” and a “growth mindset”.
- David Yeager: His research focuses on how we can use psychological insights to help adolescents develop non-cognitive skills and improve their academic motivation.
- Dylan Wiliam: A British educationalist who has contributed significantly to formative assessment and effective ways of giving feedback to learners.
- Robert J. Marzano: An educational researcher in the United States who has done extensive work on teacher effectiveness and has developed strategies to improve students’ learning.
- John Hattie: His research focuses on factors affecting student achievement, and he’s best known for his work on visible learning.
- Sonia Nieto: She has done significant work on multicultural education, diversity, and teacher education.
- Alfie Kohn: An influential voice in education, known for his criticism of standard-based education, grading, and homework.
- Christopher Emdin: Known for his work in urban science education and his development of the concept of “Reality Pedagogy”.
- Richard E. Mayer: His research focuses on multimedia learning and the cognitive aspects of how people learn from words and pictures.
- Pedro Noguera: His work focuses on how schools are influenced by social and economic conditions.
- Daniel Willingham: His research intersects cognitive psychology and K-12 education, writing about the application of findings from cognitive psychology to K-12 education.
- Gloria Ladson-Billings: Her work in culturally relevant pedagogy and critical race theory has been influential in education.
- Yong Zhao: A foundation professor at the School of Education, known for his work on the implications of globalization and technology on education.
- Lisa Delpit: She has conducted extensive research on how to increase the success of students of color and improve the education received by poor children in the United States.