Amy J Ko

Amy J. Ko is a Professor and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at the University of Washington Information School, as well as an Adjunct Professor in the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering. As an expert in the fields of human-computer interaction, computing education, and software engineering, her research focuses on fostering diversity and justice in computer science education through equitable and emancipatory learning methods. She has authored over 140 peer-reviewed papers, including 23 recognized with Distinguished Paper Awards and six named Most Influential Papers. She also co-founded a venture-funded startup that specialized in software problem-solving. Her interdisciplinary research spans behavioral sciences, sociology, and learning sciences. Amy earned her Ph.D. in Human-Computer Interaction from Carnegie Mellon University in 2008 and holds honors bachelor’s degrees in Computer Science and Psychology from Oregon State University.

• 2024–Present·University of Washington Information School·Associate Dean for Academic Affairs
  • Responsible for managing the growth of students, faculty, staff, and academic programs in the school.
• 2019–2024·University of Washington Information School·Professor
  • Focused on key computing literacy and CS teacher education.
• 2015–2019·University of Washington Information School·Associate Professor
  • Conducted in-depth research on equitable computing education and software engineering.
• 2013–2015·AnswerDash (Co-Founder and CTO)
  • Developed instant answers technology to enhance website user experience.
• 2008–2015·University of Washington Information School·Assistant Professor
  • Specialized in developer tools and computing education research.

• 2002–2008·Carnegie Mellon University·Ph.D.
  • Field of Study: Human-Computer Interaction
• 1998–2002·Oregon State University·B.Sc.
  • Field of Study: Computer Science and Psychology (Honors)