Biography
Lab website: https://sciences.ucf.edu/psychology/acat/
Dr. Valerie Sims is an assistant professor in the Psychology Department. Her lab, the Applied Cognition and Technology (ACAT) group studies human experiences of non-humans, including computers and animals. Dr. Sims obtained her B.A. in psychology with a concentration in cognitive studies from Carleton College in Northfield, MN. She holds an M.A. and Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology, as well as an interdisciplinary emphasis in human development from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Prior to coming to UCF, Dr. Sims worked for three years as an assistant professor at Cedar Crest College in Allentown, PA. Her primary research interests are in the areas of human-computer interaction, human-animal interaction, and individual differences in spatial ability. Some of her research has centered on the cognitive abilities of video game experts. Her teaching interests include Cognitive Psychology, Sensation and Perception, Developmental Psychology, and Research Methods. In her spare time, Dr. Sims likes to swim and play video games, and she loves to go to the beach.
Highlights
Recent Accomplishments
December, 2009: Teaching Incentive Program Awards 2008-2009 recipient: Valerie Sims
Recent Publications
*Sobel, B. M., & Sims, V. K. (2023). Using the Frith-Happé animations to compare attributions of mental qualities in nonhuman agents. Journal of Cognitive Psychology, 1-10.
*Whitmer, D. E., & Sims, V. K. (2021). Fear language in a warning is beneficial to risk perception in lower-risk situations. Human factors, 00187208211029444.
*Whitmer, D.E. & Sims, V. K. (2021). An implicit – not explicit – understanding of hurricane storms. Weather, Climate, and Society, 13(4), 1043-1053.
*Bailey, S.K.T., *Neigel, A.R., *Dhanani, L.Y., & Sims, V.K. (2018). Establishing measurement equivalence across computer- and paper-based tests of spatial cognition. Human Factors, 60(3), 340-350
*Whitmer, D.E., *LaGoy, M.R., & Sims, V.K. (2018). Understanding emergency response: Lessons learned from the helping literature. International Journal of Emergency Management, 14, 23-39.
(* = student author)
