Hi there! I’m Dr. LaTreese Hall, Director of the Gamification, Learning, and Development (GLAD) Lab.
The GLAD Lab is a training-focused research lab where undergraduate students build foundational knowledge and develop research skills (sometimes even discovering a passion for research along the way🤩).
While we do produce posters and papers, our primary goal is to support students in becoming confident, curious researchers.
Our Team.
The GLAD Lab is made up of dedicated undergraduate students—some joining with no prior research experience and others building on past work. Since launching two semesters ago, we've welcomed a rotating group of students who contribute to our projects in meaningful ways, whether they stay for a semester or longer. We're proud of every member, past and present, for their curiosity and growth.
Our Work.
At the GLAD Lab, our work centers on student training and applied research in developmental science.
Student Training Modules
Students complete self-paced training modules aligned with one of two tracks, based on their goals:
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Research Curiosity and Applied Skills Track: For those entering the workforce after graduation or those new to research who want to learn what it is and why it matters.
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Graduate School Prep Track: Prepares students to apply to competitive grad programs by leading research posters and learning advanced research skills.
Current Research Projects
We’re currently exploring the following topics:
🎲 Gamification & escape-room learning activities
🧮 Family math & spatial engagement
👨👩👧 Parent–child relationships & communication
💬 Adolescent health & well-being
Students can contribute to each step of the process:
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Stimuli creation
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Researcher certification
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Developing and submitting our study to the review board
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Advertising & participant recruitment
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Data collection through SONA
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Behavioral observation coding (DPICS & Datavyu)
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Data cleaning (Excel) & analysis (R)
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Poster creation & presentation
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Manuscript co-authoring
Join Us.
Interested in psychology, child development, or how learning happens?
The GLAD Lab is a collaborative research lab where undergraduate students of all experience levels are welcome.
We study topics such as:
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Gamification and escape-room learning activities
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Family math and spatial engagement
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Parent–child communication and relationships
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Adolescent health and well-being
What You’ll Do:
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Complete self-paced research training based on your goals
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Join ongoing lab projects
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Build skills in literature review, data collection, coding, and analysis
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Work in a supportive, growth-focused environment
Who Should Apply:
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Undergraduate students who are reliable, curious, and open to learning
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Interested in psychology, education, health, or related fields
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Able to commit 5–8 hours/week for at least one semester
How to Apply:
Email Dr. Hall at hall [at] SXU [dot] edu to express interest.
No prior research experience needed — we’ll help you build it!
