Jeremy Riel

Jeremy Riel, PhD is a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), and Director of the TRAILblazer Lab (www.trailblazerlab.org). His research focuses on educational technology, AI applications, and computing skills education across all age groups. He teaches courses in Instructional Design and Training (IDT Minor) and Human Development and Learning BA programs.

Education: PhD from UIC (2020), MA from Georgetown University (2012), BA from University of Oregon (2007), AA from Lane Community College (2005). He holds notable honors including the 2025 High-Impact Instructional Design Award and 2024 UIC Open Educational Resources Leadership Award.

• Affiliate Faculty at Institute of Government and Public Affairs
• Co-Leader of IGPA’s Science & Technology Working Group
• Leadership roles in AERA Division C (2021–2025)

Recent grants include NSF-funded QUAILS project (2025–2026) and Google’s Computational Thinking Intensives (2024–2025). His work spans educational simulations, chatbots, and teacher professional development frameworks like ROPD. Courses taught include EPSY 380, 430, 440, and 450 focusing on instructional design and online learning assessment.