About the researchers/presenters
Dr. Susan Nicholson-Dykstra, ph.d.
Susan Nicholson-Dykstra has taught science at Northglenn High School since 2009. She completed her Ph.D. in biochemistry from Dartmouth College in 2008 where she studied the actin dynamics within the surface protrusions of lymphocytes. In 2010, she completed her MA in curriculum and instruction from the University of Denver through the Boettcher Teachers Program.
Ms. Dykstra participates as a Noyce Master Teacher in the Streamline to Mastery professional development program through the University of Colorado at Boulder, Department of Physics Education Research. As a member of Streamline to Mastery, Ms. Dykstra collaborates with CU doctoral student, Ben Van Dusen, and Thornton High School teacher, Dr. Mary Beth Cheversia, to investigate the impact of tablet technology on student learning and attitudes toward science. In her spare time, Ms. Dykstra plays ice hockey and enjoys photography (she's a fan of Nikon!). |
Dr. mary beth cheversia, ph.d.
BEN VAN DUSEN, DOCTORAL CANDIDATEBen Van Dusen taught science at South Eugene High School for five years before becoming an Einstein Fellow at the National Science Foundation. Prior to teaching, he earned his BA in physics at UC Berkeley and his MEd in educational leadership at the University of Oregon. Ben is currently working on his PhD in curriculum and instruction at CU Boulder where he is focusing on how tools can be used to make science more engaging and motivating to students.
In his spare time, Ben plays disc golf, ultimate, and volleyball and enjoys making art (circlelimitdesigns.com) and photography (he’s a fan of Canon!). |