Psychological Sciences Faculty and Staff

Research Interests

Dr. Shake studies how cognitive processes affect functional performance in older adulthood, with two particular emphases: (1) language comprehension and attention allocation during reading, and (2) the benefits of physical activity and social engagement for cognitive health in later life.  His research and service projects have received significant grant funding from both state and federal agencies.  You can learn more about his research by visiting his lab page.

Teaching Interests

Dr. Shake enjoys college teaching because it combines intellectual challenge with meaningful mentorship. A firm believer in “learning by doing,” Dr. Shake is motivated by guiding students through complex ideas, encouraging critical thinking, and supporting students as they take a hands-on, active approach to developing their interests and skills.  He has also conducted and published research in the area of metacognition and learning in adults (i.e., the benefits of consciously thinking about one’s own learning processes). 

Courses Taught

PSYS 210: Research Methods in Psychological Science

PSYS 211: Research Methods in Psychological Science Lab

PSYS 300: Writing in the Psychological Sciences

PSYS 331: Principles of Human & Animal Learning

PSYS 332: Principles of Human & Animal Learning Lab

PSYS 423: Psychology of Adult Life & Aging

PSYS 431: Psychology of Language

PSYS 595: Practicum in Psychological Science

Other Information

Dr. Shake is the Co-Founder of the Center for Applied Science in Health & Aging (CASHA), a research center working to identify, develop, and mobilize social and health innovations in applied research by enhancing well-being, performance, and functioning in the aging community.

Dr. Shake’s former students have gone on to work in a variety of fields requiring skills in research design, statistical analysis, healthcare, leadership, medicine, and more. 

Dr. Shake’s Linkedin Profile