Christian Pirlet

Dr. Christian Pirlet serves as Assistant Professor of Educational Technology in the School of Education at Northern State University, bringing 14 years of secondary social studies teaching experience to his academic role. He actively contributes to university governance through the Northern Innovation and Startup Center advisory board, Center for Public History and Civic Engagement, and co-chairs NSU's Instructional Technology Advisory Committee.

His educational credentials include:

• Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction, University of South Dakota (2021)
• M.A. in History, University of South Dakota (2013)
• B.S.Ed. in History, Northern State University (2007)

Dr. Pirlet specializes in technology integration for PK-12 settings, with primary emphasis on game-based learning to enhance student motivation in social sciences. His research spans remote learning methodologies, Minecraft: Education Edition applications, economic education, and global citizenship development, particularly focusing on rural classroom implementations. His work bridges theoretical pedagogy with practical digital tools to address challenges in social studies instruction.

Analysis of his scholarly output reveals consistent exploration of technology-mediated approaches to teaching difficult historical narratives and global concepts. His publications demonstrate innovative use of game mechanics for macroeconomic education and human rights instruction, with recurring themes of contextualizing World War II events (particularly Nanjing atrocities) through digital learning environments. This body of work establishes him as a specialist in merging historical education with emerging educational technologies.

His scientific recognition includes:

• South Dakota’s 2011 James Madison Memorial Foundation Fellowship
• Two-time Nominee for South Dakota History Teacher of the Year Award (2018, 2019)
• Nominee for John Morton Excellence in Teaching Economics Award (2020)
• Nominee for Larry Metcalf Exemplary Dissertation Award (2022)

Dr. Pirlet secured the CETL Pedagogy Grant through Northern State University's Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, supporting his research on game-based learning. His professional service extends to state-level initiatives including Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings revision (2016), standards-unpacking sessions (2018, 2020), and South Dakota History & Civics Summit presentations. While specific student advisees aren't documented, his extensive conference mentoring and workshop leadership indicate active engagement in educator development.

He maintains strong institutional connections through the Millicent Atkins School of Education Foundation Committee (which he chairs), Technology & Innovation in Education conference collaborations, and HubCity Con presentations on educational worldbuilding. His work with Thunder Labs' Emerging Technology in Education events demonstrates ongoing commitment to translating research into classroom practice.