Dr. Lexi Hwang, Ph.D

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College of Education
Special Education and Counseling
Office KHD2081

Bio

Dr. Lexi Hwang is an Associate Professor in the College of Education at California State University, Los Angeles. She holds a Ph.D. in Special Education with emphases in mathematics education and educational statistics from The Pennsylvania State University. Dr. Hwang’s research focuses on transforming K–postsecondary STEM education to reduce attrition in the STEM pipeline. Her work aims to broaden participation and advance equity by expanding access and opportunities for underrepresented students in STEM. 

She currently serves as Principal Investigator on two federally funded projects. The first, Simulation-Based Pedagogical Approach in Chemistry Education for All Students to Succeed in STEM (SPACE), is supported by the National Science Foundation (2023–2026; $300,000) and focuses on enhancing undergraduate STEM instruction through simulation-based learning. The second, Education Reform in Food and Agriculture Using Reactive Molecular Dynamic Simulations and Science Pedagogy (e-FARMS), is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (2023–2027; $1,000,000), where she also serves as the Project Director. This project promotes equitable science education in food and agricultural contexts through cutting-edge simulation and pedagogy. 

Dr. Hwang is a former NSF STEM Education Research Fellow (2020–2023) and continues to lead initiatives that integrate evidence-based STEM pedagogy with inclusive and interdisciplinary educational approaches. 

Dr. Lexi Hwang's Key Areas of Research Interest and Expertise Include:

  • Building capacity in STEM education by integrating emerging technologies—such as computational modeling, simulation tools, virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), and artificial intelligence (AI)—with effective pedagogy to enhance student achievement, contextualized problem-solving skills, motivation, and STEM identity development across the K–postsecondary pipeline
  • Advancing K–12 mathematics teaching and learning through focused research on key areas such as fractions, algebra, and word problem solving, with the integration of AI-powered tools for automated assessment and error pattern detection
  • Enhancing K–12 teacher preparation and professional development to promote inclusive and equitable STEM education

  • Employing advanced quantitative methodologies, including hierarchical linear modeling (HLM), mixed-methods research, and error pattern analysis, to investigate and improve educational outcomes

Education

  • Ph.D. in Special Education at The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA (Aug. 2016) 

Academic Positions

  • 2023-Present: Associate Professor, College of Education, California State University, Los Angeles
  • 2020-2023: Assistant Professor, College of Education, California State University, Los Angeles
  • 2016-2020: Assistant Professor of Special Education, California State University, Bakersfield
  • 2013-2016: Graduate Research Assistant, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park
  • 2014-2015: Research Assistant, Scaffolding Engage NY, New York State Education Department

Recent Fellowship

  • 2021-2023: National Science Foundation Fellow for "SIARM for STEM" (Summer Institute in Advanced Research Methods for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education Research): https://voices.uchicago.edu/nsf-siarm/our-fellows/
  • 2019: Fellowship, Summer Research Training Institute in Single-Case Research Design and Analysis, Madison, Wisconsin

Editorial Board

  • 2020-Present: Associate Editor, Assessment for Effective Intervention. https://journals.sagepub.com/editorial-board/aei
  • 2022-Present: Reviewer on Editorial Board, International Journal of Early Childhood Education
  • 2018-Present: Reviewer on Editorial Board, Learning Disabilities Research & Practice
  • 2016-Present: Reviewer, Journal of Science Education for Students with Disabilities
  • 2016-Present: Proposal Reviewer of Research Committee, California Council on Teacher Education
  • 2016-Present: Ad-Hoc Reviewer at Educational Policy, Learning Disability Quarterly, Learning Disability Contemporary Journal, Science Educator, Journal of Mathematics and Science, Schools of Mathematics and Science
  • 2016-2020: Reviewer, Assessment for Effective Intervention

Active Projects

  • 2023-2027: “Education Reform in Food and Agriculture using Reactive Molecular Dynamic Simulations and Science Pedagogy (e-FARMS)” (PD). Proposal resubmitted to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) HSI Education Program. Awarded a total of $1,000,000 with Drs. S. Hong (Co-PD in material science), J. Zhao (Co-PD in food science), C. Liu (Co-PD in food science).
  • 2023-2026: “HSI Pilot Project SPACE: Simulation-Based Pedagogical Approach in Chemistry Education for All Students to Succeed in STEM” (PI). National Science Foundation (NSF) HSI Improving Undergraduate STEM. Awarded a total of $300,000 with Dr. S. Hong (Collaborative PI in engineering) and Dr. J. Santner (Co-PI in mechanical engineering).
  • 2025-2026: “An Exploratory Case Study: Building STEM Identity and Motivation in Pre-College Students Through Virtual Simulations” (PI). Awarded for the 2025-2026 RCSA for Assigned/Release Time Award Category. The California State University Office of the Chancellor. 

Scholarly Publication 

NOTE. † INDICATES UNDERGRADUATE/GRADUATE STUDENTS AND * INDICATES A CORRESPONDING AUTHOR WITH EQUAL CONTRIBUTION AS A FIRST AUTHOR

  1. *Hwang, J.L., Meyerott, T., Hwang, J., †Luhar, P., †Flores, K., Santner, J., & *Hong, S.L. (2025). A Case Study: Leveraging Reactive Molecular Dynamics Simulations and Guided Inquiry to Foster STEM Identity and Motivation Among Engineering College Students, MRS Advance. doi: https://doi.org/10.1557/s43580-025-01258-z
  2. †Luhar, P., †Ramirez, R., *Hwang, J.L., & *Hong, S.L. (2025). Computational Analysis and Design of High-Entropy Nanoparticles: Integrating Atomistic Simulations with Scientific Pedagogy in Materials Research, MRS Advance. doi: https://doi.org/10.1557/s43580-025-01261-4
  3. Campbell, V, Hwang, J.L., & Zulawski-Riccio, J. (2025). The Role of Science Course Pathways in Shaping College Enrollment: Insight from A Large Urban School District, Journal of Research in Science Teaching (Under Review)
  4. Hwang, J., Choo, S., Morano, S., †Liang, M., & †Kabel., M. (2024). From Silos to Synergy in STEM Education: Promoting Interdisciplinary STEM Education to Enhance Science Achievement of Students with Learning Disabilities. Learning Disabilities Research & Practice, 39(3), 1-15. https://doi.org/10.1177/09388982241245452
  5. Hwang, J, *Hwang, J., J. Rodrigues, & Han, M (2024). A Cross-Lagged Analysis on the Relationship between Math Achievement and Behavioral Problem for At-Risk Students. The Elementary School Journal, 125(1), 151-176. https://doi.org/10.1086/731240
  6. †Luhar, P., †Vaishya, A., †Flores, K., †Trigueros, M., Santner, S., *Hong, S., & *Hwang, J. (2024). Evaluation of Energetic Performance of Metal Nanoparticles: Computational Materials Research incorporated with Science Pedagogy, MRS Advances. https://doi.org/10.1557/s43580-024-00840-1
  7. Hwang, J., Sohn, J., & Han, M (2021). Compassion Fatigue and Burnout of Early Childhood Special Education Teacher: Do Compassion Satisfaction and Social Support have Buffering Effects? Journal of Special Education and Rehabilitation Science, 60(3)
  8. Kabel, M., †Hwang, J., & *Hwang, J. (2021). Lessons Learned from A Classroom Study: Transitioning from Concrete to Virtual Manipulatives to Teach Math Fact Fluency to Students with Learning Disabilities in A Rural Classroom. Journal of Curriculum Studies Research, 3(1), 42-68. https://doi.org/10.46303/jcsr.2021.7
  9. Taylor, J. & Hwang, J. (2021). Frameworks, Strategies, and Considerations for Remote Instruction in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math for Students with Disabilities. Intervention in School and Clinic, 1-8. https://doi.org/10.1177/10534512211001858
  10. Taylor, J. C., Hwang, J., Rizzo, K, & Dorris, H. (2020). Supporting Science-Related Instruction for Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: A Review and Analysis of Research Studies. Science Educators, 27(2), 102-113.
  11. Taylor, J. C., Hwang, J., Rizzo, K, & Dorris, H. (2020). A Review of Research on Science Instruction for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. School Science and Mathematics.
  12. †Zobell, E & *Hwang, J. (2020). An Examination of the Current Status of Paraprofessionals through their Lens: Role, Training, and Supervision. Journal of Special Education Apprenticeship, 9(1), 1-19
  13. Hwang, J. & Riccomini, P. J. (2019). A Descriptive Analysis of the Error Patterns Observed in the Fraction Computation Solution Pathways of Students with and without Learning Disabilities. Assessment for Effective Intervention, 1-11. doi.org/10.1177/1534508419872256
  14. Hwang, J., Riccomini, P. J., & Morano, S. (2019). Examination of Cognitive Processes in Effective Algebra Problem-Solving Interventions for Secondary Students with Learning Disabilities. Learning Disabilities: A Contemporary Journal, 17(2).
  15. Hwang, J. & Riccomini, P. J. (2019). Investigating the Relationship between Solution Pathway Preference and Accuracy of Adding Fractions for Students with Learning Disabilities. British Journal of Special Education, 34(1), 47-61. doi: 10.1111/1467-8578.12250
  16. Hwang, J. & *Son, J. (2019). Understanding Provision Systems and Contemporary Needs of Early Childhood Inclusive Education from Teachers’ Perspectives. Journal of Special Education & Rehabilitation Science, 58(1), 285-325.
  17. Hwang, J., Riccomini, P. J., Hwang, S, & Morano, S. (2019). A Systematic Analysis of Experimental Studies Targeting Fractions for Students with Mathematics Difficulties. Learning Disabilities Research & Practice, 34(1), 1-15. doi:10.1111/ldrp.12187
  18. Taylor, J. C., Koehler, K., Rizzo, K. & Hwang, J. (2018) The Rise of Measurement: Assessing Science and the Implications for Students with Special Needs. In Koomen, M. H, Kahn, S., Atchison, C., & Wild, T. (Eds.) In Towards Inclusion of All Learners in Science Teacher Education.
  19. Morano, S., Ruiz, S., Hwang, J., Wertalik, J., Moeller, J., Karal, M. A., & Mulloy, A (2017). Meta-Analysis of Single-Case Treatment Effects on Self-Injurious Behavior for Individuals with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities. Autism & Developmental Language Impairments, 2, 1-26. doi: 10.1177/2396941516688399
  20. Hwang, J. (2016). An examination of error patterns associated with middle school students’ solution pathways when solving fraction computation involving addition, The Pennsylvania State University
  21. Hwang, J. & Riccomini, P. J. (2016). Enhancing Mathematical Problem Solving for Secondary Students with or At-Risk of Learning Disabilities: A Literature Review. Learning Disabilities Research and Practice, 31(3), 169-181. doi:10.1111/ldrp.12105
  22. Hwang, J. & Taylor, J. C. (2016). Stemming on STEM: A STEM Education Framework for Students with Disabilities. Journal of Science Education for Students with Disabilities, 19(1), 39-49.
  23. Riccomini, P. J., Hwang, J. & Morano, S. (2016). Developing Mathematical Problem Solving through Strategic Instruction: Much More than a Keyword. In Cook, B. G., Tankersley, M., & Landrum, T. J. (Eds.) Instructional Practices with and without Empirical Validity Advances in Learning and Behavioral Disabilities (pp. 39-60). Bingley, UK: Emerald Group Publishing Limited.
  24. Morano, S., Hwang, J., Kohler, K. M., Markelz, A. M., Rizzo, K., & Riccomini, P. J. (2016). 5 Ways to Scaffold Mathematics Instruction for Secondary Students with Learning Disabilities. LD Forum, Council of Learning Disabilities.
  25. Riccomini, P. J., Morano, S., & Hwang, J. (2015).  Interleaved Worked Examples and Math Problems: Embedding Instructional Guidance in Math Homework and Independent Practice to Improve Student Accuracy and Outcomes. Educational Research Newsletter & Webinars. .

Professional Proceedings (2019-Present)

  1. Hwang, J.L, Hong, S.L., †Luhar, P., & †Ramirez, R (2025). Enhancing Undergraduate Engineering Problem-Solving Skills through Molecular Dynamics Simulations and Innovative Science Teaching Methods. 2025 American Physics Society, Anaheim, CA
  2. Hwang, J.L, Meyerott, T., & Hong, S.L., (2025). STEM identity quest: Unleashing motivation with computational modeling and simulation. 2025 American Chemistry Society, San Diego, CA.
  3. Hwang, J.L, Hong, S.L., Zhao, J., Liu C., †Mathers, W., †Lee, C., & †Vaishya, A (2025). From Theory To Practice: Enhancing Undergraduate Students’ Problem-Solving Skills In Food And Agricultural Science With Computational Chemistry Modeling And Simulation Technique And Culturally Relevant Pedagogy. 2025 American Chemistry Society, San Diego, CA.
  4. †Vaishya, A., Hong, S.L., Hwang, J.L, Liu C., Zhao, J. (2025). Simulating Oxidative Pathways in Linoleic Acid: A Molecular Dynamics Approach to Safeguard Food Quality and Extend Shelf Life. 2025 American Chemistry Society, San Diego, CA.
  5. †Lee, C., Hong, S.L., Hwang, J.L, Liu C., Zhao, J. (2025). Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Trans Fatty Acid Formation in Various Oils During High-Temperature Frying. 2025 American Chemistry Society, San Diego, CA.
  6. †Mathers, W., Hwang, J.L, Liu C., Hong, S.L., Zhao, J. (2025). Enhancing Nutritional Science with Molecular Dynamics: A Focus on the Maillard Reaction. 2025 American Chemistry Society, San Diego, CA.
  7. Hwang, J.L & †Liang, M (Feb. 2025). Innovations in Mathematics Assessment: Evidence-Based Practices for Improving Student Outcomes, 2025 Pacific Coast Research Conference, San Diego, CA
  8. Hwang, J.L., Hong, S.L., & Luhar, P. (Dec. 2024). Transforming Engineering Education—Leveraging Molecular Dynamics Simulations, Artificial Intelligence and Guided Inquiry to Enhance Community-Based Problem-Solving Skills in College Students, 2024 Materials Research Society, Boston, MA. Nominated for the Best Poster Award.
  9. Luhar, P, Hong, S.L., Hwang, J.L., Vashiya, A., Santer, J., & Dong, J. (Dec. 2024). Computational Analysis and Design of High-Entropy Nanoparticles: Integrating Atomistic Simulations with Scientific Pedagogy in Materials Research, 2024 Materials Research Society, Boston, MA.
  10. Hwang, J., Hong, S., and Santner, J. (Sept. 2024). Supporting URM Students in Enhancing Their Science Identity Development and Motivation to Pursue STEM Careers, Regional HSI Conference on Servingness, Los Angeles, CA.
  11. Hwang, J., Choo, S., Liang, M., Hong, S. (April 2024). Breaking Down Subject Silos by Promoting Interdisciplinary STEM Education, American Research Education Association, Philadelphia, PA.
  12. Hwang, J & Hwang, J. (April 2024). Examining Bidirectional Relationship Between Math Achievement and Behavior Problems of Elementary Students, American Research Education Association, Philadelphia, PA.
  13. Hwang, J., Choo, S., & Morano, S. (March 2024). Field Test of STEM Lessons in Measuring Growth of Students with Learning Disabilities. 2024 Council of Exceptional Children, San Antonio, TX.
  14. Luhar, P., Hong, S., & Hwang, J. (Nov. 2023). Atomistic Simulation Incorporated with Science Pedagogy to Advance Machine Learning-Assisted Materials Research, 2023 Materials Research Society, Boston, MA.
  15. Hwang, J. & Hong, S. (Nov. 2023). Improved Energetic Performance of Graphene-Supported Aluminum Nanoparticles: Computational Materials Research Incorporated with Science Pedagogy, 2023 Materials Research Society, Boston, MA.
  16. Hwang, J. & Hong, S. (March 2023). Using guided inquiry instruction and computational modeling and simulation skills to improve community-based engineering problem-solving skills for undergraduate students at Hispanic serving institution, American Chemistry Society.
  17. Hwang, J.  & Hong, S. (March 2023). Molecular Dynamic Simulation Incorporated with Science Pedagogy to Improve Undergraduate Students’ Authentic Engineering Problem-Solving Skills, 2023 American Physics Society.
  18. Taylor, J. & Hwang, J.  (March 2023). Inclusive Strategies and Interventions for In-Person and Remote STEM Instruction (session theme: teaching strategies and classroom practices), 2023 National Science Teachers Association.
  19. Hwang, J. & Han, M. (July 2022). The Current Trends in STEM Education and Inclusive Teaching Practices in U.S., The Korean Society of Elementary Science Education.
  20. Hwang, J. & Hong, S. (March 2022). Virtual Reality in Teaching Chemistry for High School Students with Learning Disability, American Chemical Society.
  21. Hwang, J., Choo, S., & Morano, S. (Oct. 2021). An Examination of the Promise of STEM Integrative Lessons in Classroom Setting, 2021 International Conference on Learning Disabilities
  22. Hong, S., Hwang, J., & Taylor, J. (Oct. 2021). Intro to Virtual Reality in Teaching Chemistry for High School Students with LD, 2021 International Conference on Learning Disabilities
  23. Hwang, J. & Hwang, J. (Oct. 2021). Profiling Achievement Goal of Middle School Students At Risk for Learning Using Diagnostic Classification Model, 2021 International Conference on Learning Disabilities
  24. Hwang, J., & Taylor, J. (Nov. 2021). Preparing Teachers for Inclusive STEAM Education, Teacher Education Division of the Council for Exceptional Children 2021 (accepted).
  25. Hwang, J. (March 2021). Math for Math? It is Time to Switch Your Gear to Teach REAL MATH using STEAM Interdisciplinary Framework, California Association of Resource and Special Educators
  26. Hwang, J. (Feb. 2021). Meaningful Errors in Fractions. In Lee, J., Hwang, J., & Morano, S. (2021). A panel presentation on the topic of “Fractions”, 2021 Pacific Coast Research Conference
  27. Taylor, J., Bol, S., Rizzo, K., & Hwang, J. Science for All: The Most Effective Strategies for Teaching Science to Students with Moderate and Severe Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. 2021 Council of Exceptional Children
  28. Hwang, J. (Oct. 2019). A Comparison of Virtual and Physical Manipulatives in Increasing Math Fact Fluency. Council of Learning Disabilities, San Antonio, TX
  29. Hwang, J. & Choo, S. (Oct. 2019). STREAM education: An Emerging Interdisciplinary Approach for Student with LD. Council of Learning Disabilities, San Antonio, TX
  30. Hwang, J., Morano, S., & Choo, S. (Jan. 2019). Bring STREAM Education on Stream: Current Stage of the Project and Future direction, Pacific Coast Research Conference, San Diego, CA
  31. Hwang, J. (Jan. 2019). STEM Education Framework for Students with Disabilities, Hawaii International Conferences on Education, Hawaii
  32. Hwang, S. & Hwang, J. (Jan. 2019). Diagnostic View of US Math Education in Teaching Fractions for Students with Mathematical Difficulties, Hawaii International Conferences on Education, Hawaii

Hwang, J, Rizzo, K., Taylor, J., & Hill, D. (Jan. 2019). Science Instruction for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Analysis of Single-Case Research, Association for Behavior Analysis International, San Francisco, CA

International & National Invited Webinar and Lectures (2017-Present)

  • Hwang, J. (May 2022). “Let’s STEAM”. Normalizing Exceptionalities with Science and STEM Teaching, invited for keynote speech for the virtual miniseries from National Science Teaching Association, sponsored by Vernier. Available at https://www.nsta.org/nesst#tab.
  • Hwang, J. (2021). Recommendations and Strategies to Enhance Learning and Engagement in Remote STEAM Instruction for Kindergarteners in Remote Learning Environment, Dongyoung English Kindergarten, South Korea
  • Hwang, J. (Oct. 2018). STREAM Education for Student with Disabilities, “Supporting All Learners Using Active Learning Pedagogy,” Webinar presentation invited from American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)-Advancing Research & Innovation in the STEM Education of Preservice Teachers in High-Need Schools (ARISE), supported by the NSF Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program (Grant No. DUE-1548986-Stimulating Research and Innovation in STEM Teacher Education)
  • Hwang, J. (Jan. 2017). High-Leverage Practice in Supporting Exceptional Learners. Lectures presented at Daegu University, South Korea. 

Courses Taught 

  • EDCI4112: Curriculum and Teaching of STEM Education
  • EDSP4253: Inclusive STEAM Education for Students with Mild to Moderate Support Needs
  • EDSP3010: Individuals with Disabilities in Contemporary Society
  • EDSP4040: Collaboration and Transition in Special Education
  • EDSP4020&EDSP5100: Assessment in Special Education
  • EDSP5250: Characteristics and Needs of Students with Mild to Severe Disabilities
  • EDSP5450: Curriculum and Instruction for Mild to Moderate Disabilities
  • EDSP5255: Advanced Methods in Mild/Moderate Support Needs
  • EDSP5800&6200: Research Method in Special Education
  • EDSP5801: Problems and Practices in Special Education
  • EDSP6810/6820: MA Culminating Activity (Project, Thesis, and Exam) in Special Education
  • EDSP6860/6880: Preliminary Credential Intern Seminar and Field Supervision in Special Education