As rapid technological change reshapes the workforce, the ability to learn and relearn throughout adulthood has become essential. Margaret Beier, professor and chair of the Department of Psychological Sciences at Rice University, studies the individual and environmental factors that influence success in educational settings across the lifespan. Her research, which examines how motivation, self-efficacy and context shape learning outcomes, led to her election as a 2026 fellow of the American Educational Research Association, an honor awarded to scholars nominated by their peers for sustained excellence and impact.
Beier’s work spans traditional classrooms and the self-directed learning that occurs outside of formal educational institutions. In postsecondary environments, she studies how classroom experiences influence students’ confidence, motivation and academic success. Her research also focuses on adult learning both within and outside of the workplace, where employees must continually develop new skills to remain competitive.
“My research is particularly important in the modern workplace because rapid technological change requires workers to continuously upskill and reskill to remain employed,” Beier said. “Compared to classroom learning, less research has examined the factors that facilitate or impede adult learning.”
By identifying what supports or hinders motivation and persistence, Beier aims to inform interventions that expand access to learning opportunities and improve outcomes for diverse populations. She considers lifelong learning and access to education critical equity issues, especially as economic mobility increasingly depends on continued skill development.
“It is an incredible honor,” Beier said of being named an AERA Fellow. “I was nominated by people I revere in the field, individuals who have produced seminal research on learning in adult and educational environments and who have greatly influenced my work. It is humbling to realize that they also value my contributions to science.”
Beier began her professional career at Rice and has been a member of the faculty for 22 years. She credits the university’s research support and intellectual community with helping shape her trajectory.
“Rice has supported me and the development of my research program every step of the way,” she said. “Most importantly, Rice provided an unparalleled intellectual environment, surrounding me with scholars inside and outside my discipline who motivated me and helped shape my ideas.”
Reflecting on the recognition, Beier emphasized that her work is rooted in collaboration.
“I am humbled and grateful for this honor, which would not have been possible without the support of my colleagues and the university.”