Christine Schnittka
Professor of Science Education
Emily R. and Gerald S. Leischuck Professor for Critical Needs in Education
Co-Director, AUTeach
Short Bio
Dr. Christine Schnittka, a former middle school science teacher and mechanical engineer, develops and researches design-based curriculum units for elementary and middle school youth, targeting key science concepts through a maker lens. Her curricula have been used by teachers in more than 33 states and 13 countries. She is currently investigating the science and engineering embedded in traditional crafts, turning her findings into curricula for elementary and middle school. A creative polymath, she likes to spend her free time with her knitting needles in one hand and clay in the other.
Professional Experience
Dr. Schnittka received a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Auburn University. She pursued her graduate education at the University of Virginia, earning a master’s in mechanical engineering and a Ph.D. in Science Education. Dr. Schnittka has worked as a faculty member at Auburn University since 2012, and currently serves as Co-Director of AUTeach and is a departmental senator for the University Senate. Her national professional service roles have included being the Associate Science Editor for the Electronic Journal of Research in Science and Mathematics Education (2019-2022), and serving on the publications committee for School Science and Mathematics Association (2023 – present).
Engagement
STEM lessons after school via the I Am My Brother's Keeper program. Community craft+science workshops
