Irene Lee is a national expert in computational thinking and K–12 STEM education. She leads a body of research that advances knowledge of how to use computer modeling and simulations to effectively integrate computer science (CS) into science classrooms. She is well-known for the Use-Modify-Create progression that has been widely adopted in CS education.
Lee is passionate about bringing innovative learning experiences to diverse youth populations. Nationwide, she supports educators in infusing classrooms and out-of-school time programs with cutting-edge tools and techniques used by modern scientists. She leads five National Science Foundation-funded projects, three focused on integrating CS into science and two on K–12 artificial intelligence (AI) education.
A co-author of the K–12 CS Frameworks and K–12 CS Standards, Lee was a pioneer in the computer graphics and gaming industries. She is the founder and director of Project GUTS (Growing Up Thinking Scientifically) and advises the AI4K12 initiative.
Lee holds a BA in Pure Mathematics from the University of Chicago and an MEd from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.