On being an academic, a farmer, a scientist, an educator, a mom, ...About Becker
I taught Computer Science at the University of Calgary from 1983-2006, and was responsible for many innovations in computer science education research including: methodologies for comprehensive coordination of first-year CS major’s courses, application of inquiry-based and learner-centered approaches in freshman CS programs and large class settings, and methodologies for facilitating cutting-edge research with undergraduate students.
I’ve been using digital games to teach since 1998, taught one of the first Digital Game Based Learning courses for an Education faculty, and now spend time helping others become familiar with the educational potential of games.
My current interests include the use of computer games for learning at all levels of education, including building games in order to learn programming and other CS concepts. I finished my PhD in Educational Technology in Feb. 2008; my work focuses on game design and on exploring methodologies for incorporating instructional design into rather than onto the game design process.
Education: B.Sc. (CPSC) 1981, University of Calgary; M.Sc. (CPSC) 1983, University of Calgary PhD (Educational Technology) 2008
As of August 2008, I am an Instructor in the Department of Computer Science and Information Systemsat Mount Royal College (Calgary, Alberta,Canada)
~and~
an Adjunct Professor of Education, University of Calgary (Alberta,Canada)
My resume can be found here. [pdf]
My publication record can be found here.
For additional shameless self-promotion see this page.