Dr. Watson is currently Professor and Chair of Quantitative Research in the School of Education at Liberty. He holds a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction and Science Education (with a Biology Specialization) from the University of South Florida in Tampa. He also completed degrees in Biology and in Science Education. He is licensed to teach biology, chemistry, general science, and middle grades science.

Dr. Watson had a long history of educational experiences prior to coming to Liberty in 2004, including time as a high school science teacher, a middle-school science teacher and department chair, and as a school district administrator in a teacher education center. He also spent 16 years in various departments at East Carolina University, including service as a department chair, graduate director, accreditation coordinator, and acting director of teacher education.

Dr. Watson’s current research interests include teacher retention, teacher attitude, and cooperative learning, particularly as those issues impact science teachers at various levels. He has conducted several research studies, published many refereed articles, and made numerous presentations at professional meetings.