Ph.D., 2017, University of North Texas
M.S., 2010, Virginia Commonwealth University
B.S., 2007, Virginia Commonwealth University
Dr. Allen teaches a range of statistics and mathematics courses, emphasizing hands-on, data-driven learning with R and other statistical tools. He encourages collaboration and peer learning, helping students build confidence as they explore both real-world data and the underlying structures of statistical and mathematical ideas. His teaching bridges mathematical reasoning with data science applications, inspiring students to view coding as a creative and empowering part of the learning process.
His research focuses on statistics education, particularly on innovative ways to introduce R to general education students. He is currently envisioning new ways for students to engage with simulation-based learning, giving them opportunities to experience and interpret randomness and variability directly through data, moving beyond traditional efforts that focus on calculating theoretical probabilities from parameterized distributions.
Recently, he co-authored an article in CHANCE magazine titled The Use of Unstructured Data to Study Police Use of Force, which presents case studies where artificial intelligence and large language models were used to organize and uncover hidden patterns of bias within unstructured (or misstructured) data, offering new perspectives on historical practices and inequities relevant to humanitarian efforts.
Dr. Allen serves as a peer reviewer for the Journal of Statistics and Data Science Education (JSDSE) and collaborates on interdisciplinary projects within biology, computing, engineering, and the social sciences. Beyond his academic work, he mentors students through Wartburg’s Chess Club, helping them strengthen their strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
