Find Academic Supervisors

Drew WhitworthView profile

Lecturer

• Information Literacy
• Distance and Online Learning
• Digital Literacy
• +5 more

Drew Whitworth is a Lecturer and Director of Teaching and Learning Strategy at the Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester. He holds a PhD in Education from the University of Leeds (2001) and has extensive experience in teaching and research focused on distance/online learning, information literacy, and digital technologies in education. Whitworth has authored three influential books: Information Obesity (2009), Radical Information Literacy (2014), and Mapping Information Landscapes (2020). His research explores critical theory applications in education, information visualization, and workplace learning. Key academic roles include Programme Director of the MA: Digital Technologies, Communication and Education (2007–2016) and recipient of prestigious awards such as the Blackboard Catalyst Award (2012) and the University’s 'Most Innovative Lecturer' title (2013). His current project, 'Incorporating Knowledge-building analytics in Canvas' (2024–2025), focuses on integrating digital tools into educational practices. Whitworth’s work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to quality education and digital inclusion. Research themes include information literacy practices across historical contexts (e.g., medieval manuscripts), media education, and the sociopolitical dimensions of learning. His methodological contributions include discursive mapping techniques to visualize information landscapes and assess digital competency development. Whitworth’s impact extends beyond academia through initiatives like the MOSI-ALONG project (2011), exploring social media in museums, and the DeVIL study (2015), evaluating information literacy’s employer value. He actively promotes critical pedagogy and equitable access to education through his publications and institutional leadership roles.

Arenthia HerrenView profile

Lecturer

• Library Science
• Open Educational Resources (OER)
• Educational Technology
• +3 more

Arenthia Herren is a Faculty Librarian and Open Educational Resources (OER) Librarian at Florida Southwestern State University's Richard H. Rush Library on the Lee Campus. She holds a Doctor of Education (anticipated 2025) in Policy, Planning and Leadership for Higher Education Administration from the College of William and Mary, a Master of Science in Library and Information Science (2010) and Master of Arts in Art History (2009) from Florida State University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Art History (2007) from the University of Georgia. Her research focuses on library resource management, OER implementation, copyright compliance, and innovative online course design. Key projects include developing program-driven library collections, integrating OER into curricula, and empowering faculty through collaborative course design frameworks. She has presented at major conferences including the Association of College and Research Libraries and the Florida OER Summit. Her teaching includes courses such as ARH 1000 Art Appreciation and IDS 2891 Creative Capstone. Professional development credentials include the AAC&U OER Institute (2023), Modern Leadership Certification (2021), and Open Education Network Librarianship Certification (2020). She actively bridges library services with academic programs through data-driven approaches to resource allocation and student-centered learning initiatives.

Rebecca HedreenView profile

Researcher

• Information Science
• Library Science
• Health Sciences
• +5 more

Rebecca Hedreen serves as the Life and Clinical Sciences Librarian and Distance Learning Coordinator at Southern Connecticut State University's Hilton C. Buley Library. With expertise spanning biology, health sciences, nursing, psychology, and information literacy, she provides specialized research support to students and faculty across multiple disciplines. Her role encompasses developing subject-specific research guides, offering citation management instruction, and coordinating distance learning library services. Dr. Hedreen's research interests focus on information literacy in health sciences, citation management tools, nursing literature search methodologies, and virtual librarianship. Her work bridges traditional library services with digital innovations, particularly in supporting distance learners through technologies like screencasts and virtual environments. She has made significant contributions to understanding how librarians can effectively support evidence-based practice in nursing and healthcare education. Her scholarly output demonstrates consistent engagement with evolving library practices over nearly two decades, from early explorations of virtual reference services in Second Life to current work on citation collection methods and professional development for library staff. Recent publications highlight her focus on precise search strategies for nursing literature and innovative approaches to supporting online learners across time zones. As a dedicated educator, Dr. Hedreen provides extensive support through research consultations, classroom instruction, and online resources. She has developed numerous subject-specific research guides covering biology, nursing, psychology, and health sciences, helping students navigate complex information landscapes. Her commitment to open access and educational resources has informed her work on OER initiatives and citation management tools. Dr. Hedreen actively contributes to the library profession through her research on distance learning, virtual reference services, and information literacy assessment. Her work helps shape best practices for academic librarians supporting online and hybrid education models, particularly in health science disciplines where precise information retrieval is critical for evidence-based practice.

Ellyssa Valenti KroskiView profile

Lecturer

• Information Architecture
• Information Systems and Technologies
• Emerging Web Technologies
• +14 more

Ellyssa Valenti Kroski is a Lecturer at the School of Library and Information Science, San José State University, and also serves as adjunct faculty at Drexel University. She is the Director of Innovation & Engagement at the New York Law Institute, where she leads technological and outreach initiatives. Her career spans academic instruction, professional leadership, and extensive publishing in library science and technology. MLIS, Library and Information Science, Long Island University (2004) B.A., Mount Holyoke College (1991) Her research and teaching focus on emerging technologies in libraries , including artificial intelligence, virtual reality, gamification, makerspaces, and digital literacy. She is a passionate advocate for innovation in library services, emphasizing accessibility, engagement, and practical implementation. Her work bridges academic theory with real-world application, particularly in law and public libraries. The 15 most recent publications reflect a strong trend toward interactive and immersive learning experiences , AI integration in legal information systems , and hands-on, community-driven library programming . Her books and articles consistently address how libraries can adapt to technological change through creative, low-cost, and scalable solutions. AALL's 2020 Joseph L. Andrews Legal Literature Award for Law Librarianship in the Age of AI 2017 Library Hi Tech Award from ALA/LITA for long-term contributions to LIS technology Kroski has been a key advisor and educator in digital transformation, co-developing training programs such as Launching and Expanding Virtual Services with the American Library Association. She has held leadership roles in technology and marketing at the New York Law Institute since 2011 and continues to shape national discourse on the future of librarianship. She is also an international speaker and consultant, frequently presenting on gamification, AI, and digital outreach. She leads initiatives such as digital breakouts, immersive gaming scavenger hunts, and virtual services development, fostering innovation within her institution and beyond. Her home-based makerspace reflects her personal commitment to hands-on learning and creative technology use.

Oliver SchulzView profile

Academic

• Theological Librarianship
• Collection Management
• Information Literacy
• +5 more

Oliver Schulz currently serves as Associate Librarian for Collection Management at Liberty University, where he is classified as Administrative Faculty. Over a career spanning more than 25 years, he has held academic library and teaching positions at The Master’s Seminary, Colorado Christian University, and the European Bible Training Center in Berlin. Education M.L.I.S., summa cum laude, San Jose State University Th.M., The Master’s Seminary M.Div., The Master’s Seminary B.A., Union University Research & Teaching Interests Schulz’s work focuses on the intersection of library science and theological education. His research delves into information literacy instruction tailored for seminary students, effective reference interview techniques, open-access publishing within theological literature, and the integration of faith-based perspectives into librarianship. He is particularly interested in leveraging emerging technologies—such as AI chatbots—to enhance library instruction. Recent Scholarship Across his recent publications, Schulz examines how academic libraries can adapt to rapidly evolving pedagogical and technological landscapes. His 2024 article explores ChatGPT’s utility in library instruction, while earlier works evaluate open-access models and distance-learning support, underscoring a consistent emphasis on innovative service delivery in theological education contexts. Presentations "Pruning: What the Literature Did Not Teach Me" – ATLA Annual Conference, June 2024 "Cool Palace, Hezekiah, but Where Is Your Library?" – Evangelical Theological Society Far West Regional Meeting, April 2021 "Using Microsoft Word Outline View & Styles to Write Reports, Papers, Procedures, etc." – Marmot User Group, October 2020 Campus & Community Engagement Beyond his formal roles, Schulz has taught courses ranging from Old and New Testament surveys to theological German and Apologetics. He has also served as a youth pastor in Korean churches in California and continues ministry work in Germany, Florida, and Colorado.

Michael FosmireView profile

Professor

• Information Literacy Instruction
• Information Seeking Behavior
• Scholarly Publishing
• +2 more

Michael Fosmire is a Professor at Purdue University’s Science and Engineering Libraries. He specializes in applying active learning techniques to information literacy instruction, studying the information-seeking behaviors of scientists and engineers, and addressing scholarly publishing issues. His research bridges library science and engineering education to enhance curriculum design and student research skills. MLIS, University of Washington, 1997 M.S., Physics, University of Washington, 1996 B.S., Physics and Mathematics, Pennsylvania State University, 1992 His work focuses on integrating information literacy into engineering design processes through competency-based education, digital badging, and real-world problem-solving. He has explored fake news perception in science education and the application of reflective judgment in information literacy. Recent publications emphasize scientific news literacy, data management in STEM, and the role of technical standards in education. Awards include ASEE National Conference Best Paper (2012) and LIRT Top-20 Library Instruction Article (2005, 2011). Fosmire has served on editorial boards and advisory councils for major scientific publications, including the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and the Guide to Reference . His professional memberships include the American Institute of Physics Publications Policies Committee and the Physics-Astronomy Mathematics Division.

Cameron M. PiersonView profile

Lecturer

• EDI and Information Ethics
• Libraries and Librarianship
• Human Information Behavior
• +4 more

Cameron M. Pierson is a Lecturer at the School of Information, University of British Columbia. He holds a Ph.D. from Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington (2021) and an MLIS from Wayne State University (2016). His research focuses on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in information ethics, libraries, and librarianship, with specialties in professional education, human information behavior, and digital transformation. His global experience spans roles in national, university, legal, and school libraries across Australia, New Zealand, the U.S., Germany, and Canada. This international perspective informs his work on fostering culturally conscientious information professionals who address interdisciplinary and global challenges. His pedagogical approach emphasizes critical engagement with ethical frameworks, digital technologies, and inclusive practices. Recent publications highlight trends in ethical AI frameworks, cross-cultural information education, librarian professional identity development, and the integration of artificial intelligence in library curricula. His work also addresses barriers to LGBTQ+ information access and explores online citizen science’s role in STEM education. While no formal scientific awards are listed, his contributions to library science education and ethical information practices are evident through his extensive publication record. No specific grants or advising roles are detailed in the provided materials.

Abigail PhillipsView profile

Assistant Professor

• Neurodiversity
• Disability Studies
• Accessibility in Libraries
• +5 more

Abigail Phillips is an Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's School of Information Studies. She holds a PhD in Information Studies from Florida State University, with a focus on leadership and management, and a Specialist degree in Library and Information Studies. Her research explores neurodiversity, disability inclusion in libraries, makerspaces, cyberbullying, and empathetic library practices. She advocates for libraries as vital public spaces, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Phillips has taught courses such as Foundations of Library and Information Science, Trauma-Informed Librarianship, and Critical Librarianship. Education: PhD in Information Studies, Florida State University (2016) Specialist in Library and Information Studies (2014) MS in Library and Information Studies (2008), focusing on children/youth services BA in Anthropology, University of Georgia (2006) Her research interests emphasize libraries' role in fostering empathy, accessibility, and equity, with a focus on youth and neurodivergent populations. Recent work addresses mental health in online learning environments, inclusive makerspaces, and LIS education reforms. Phillips has collaborated on projects such as the #ProtectLibraryWorkers movement and participatory design of library programs. Her publications highlight themes like disability inclusion in LIS frameworks, cyberbullying prevention, and trauma-informed practices. Phillips actively bridges academic research with practical library services, emphasizing community-driven solutions.

• Science Education
• Teacher Professional Learning
• Faculty Mentoring
• +5 more

Dr. Jerine Pegg is a Professor of Science Education and Co-director of the Centre for Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education (CMASTE) at the University of Alberta's Faculty of Education. She holds a PhD, MAT, and BS, and has served as Department Chair and Associate Chair in the Department of Elementary Education. Her research focuses on science education, teacher professional learning, faculty mentoring, and partnership development through social network theory and communities of practice. Dr. Pegg has received awards for her innovative use of technology in education and distinguished service to Alberta’s education community. She teaches undergraduate and graduate courses including Curriculum and Pedagogy in Elementary School Science , Conference Seminar , and Special Topics in Educational Theory and Practice . Her service roles include membership on the Alberta Education Science Curriculum Working Group and General Faculties Council at the University of Alberta. Dr. Pegg collaborates internationally, contributing to education initiatives in Oman and Rwanda. Her scholarship emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, with notable publications on online teacher development, mentoring communities, and science curriculum design. Key projects include the Science Curriculum Wayfinder and SaLLIE Project websites supporting Alberta’s science education reforms.

• Urban Planning
• Social Work
• Library Science
• +3 more

Benjamin Aldred is an Associate Professor and Reference Librarian at the University of Illinois Chicago's University Library. His roles include serving as a Liaison Librarian for the College of Urban Planning and Public Affairs, Public Administration, and the Jane Addams College of Social Work. He specializes in Government Information, Social Work, Transportation, and Urban Planning. His research focuses on geospatial analysis of library collections, information equity, and instructional design in academic libraries. Education: Aldred holds a PhD in Folklore and American Studies from Indiana University (2009), an M.S. in Library and Information Sciences from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2014), and prior degrees in History, Sociology, and Folklore. He is certified through the Federal Depository Library Program. Research Interests: His work bridges GIS applications in library science, folklore studies, and information literacy. He has published on topics ranging from spatial analysis of urban planning literature to the use of ArcGIS in collection management. His earlier scholarship explored folklore in digital spaces, gaming cultures, and film studies. Professional Service: Aldred chairs committees for the American Library Association’s GODORT division and participates in the Illinois Depository Council. He has served on UIC’s University Senate and led initiatives in diversity, equity, and inclusion. His contributions include judging student research forums and managing ICPSR data services. Labs/Teams: His current projects emphasize geospatial approaches to addressing equity gaps in academic resources. He collaborates with urban planning departments to map information access disparities using GIS tools.

Tina GriffinView profile

Associate Professor

• Bioengineering
• Pharmacy
• Health Informatics
• +3 more

Tina Griffin is an Associate Professor and Information Services and Liaison Librarian at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), affiliated with the College of Medicine and College of Pharmacy. Her roles include supporting the Center for Clinical and Translational Science, Basic Medical Sciences, and the College of Pharmacy. She specializes in health informatics, data management, and bioengineering research. Her research interests span dermatological treatments (e.g., light therapy for atopic dermatitis), systemic inflammatory conditions, and the sustainability of research data management systems. She also explores opioid use in transplant recipients and peer support systems in substance use care. Her work often bridges library science with health sciences, addressing challenges in academic librarianship, virtual practicums, and the politics of citation. Key Research Areas : Data management, health informatics, dermatology, bioengineering, and academic library practices. Recent Trends : Focus on systemic inflammation, phototherapy advancements, and sustainable data infrastructure. Griffin has contributed to national summits on research data preservation and authored guides for bioinformatics tools like the NCBI. Her work emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and the role of librarians in shaping health science education and policy.

Daniel ŘíhaView profile

Assistant Professor

• Interactive Media
• Videogame Studies
• Serious Games
• +1 more

Daniel Říha serves as Assistant Professor at the Department of Theory of Art and Artworks within the Faculty of Humanities, Charles University Prague, holding this position continuously since 2005. His academic foundation includes a Ph.D. (2002) and M.A. (1998) from Charles University's Institute of Information Studies and Librarianship, with doctoral research focusing on collaborative hypermedia environments for scientific communication. His research program integrates Interactive Media, Videogame Studies, Serious Games, and Virtual Reality through interdisciplinary lenses spanning computer science, art theory, and education. Current investigations examine cutscene functionality in game information systems, VR applications in sexuality research, and multi-touch exhibition design, reflecting sustained engagement with digital knowledge representation since his early work on 3D virtual libraries. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2009-2016) reveals consistent thematic evolution toward applied interactive systems, with growing emphasis on therapeutic and educational implementations of virtual environments. His editorial leadership across 12 interdisciplinary volumes demonstrates significant influence in cyberculture and game studies discourse. 2003 Winner of Kunst am Bau International Art Competition for Virtual 3-D Library project As Principal Investigator for Czech Ministry of Education grants (2004-2005) and team member for Czech Grant Agency (2016-2018) and Ministry of Culture projects (2012-2015), he has secured substantial research funding. His academic leadership extends to founding Charles University's New Media Studies discipline and MED Comparative Media Research Group, plus international roles including Director of Publications at Inter-Disciplinary Press (2010-2012) and Cyber Hub Leader (2008-2016). Through projects like the Virtual Museum of Phototelegraphy and INVIPO distance education infrastructure, he has established collaborative networks connecting Czech academic institutions with German, Dutch, Swedish, and Polish universities, operationalizing his theoretical work in international educational contexts.

Annie ArmstrongView profile

Professor

• Education
• Psychology
• Information Literacy
• +3 more

Annie Armstrong is a Professor and Coordinator of Teaching and Learning Services at the Daley Library, University of Illinois Chicago (UIC). She serves as a liaison for the College of Education, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and Psychology departments, focusing on research services and resources. Her work bridges library practices with educational strategies, particularly in information literacy and adaptive teaching methods. Her research interests emphasize student-centered approaches to library instruction, including the role of chat-based reference services, pandemic-era educational resilience, and the integration of primary sources into curricula. She explores how librarians collaborate with faculty to design innovative instructional frameworks that align with ACRL standards, fostering lifelong learning skills among students. Armstrong’s publications highlight trends in library adaptation to digital and crisis-driven environments, emphasizing collaboration between librarians and instructional designers. Her work addresses barriers in first-year writing programs and advocates for libraries’ evolving relevance in the digital age through evidence-based practices and community engagement. While no scientific awards are listed, her contributions to library pedagogy and instructional innovation reflect significant scholarly impact. Her advising and grant activities are not explicitly detailed in the provided texts, but her roles suggest active involvement in educational initiatives. She is affiliated with UIC’s Daley Library, contributing to its mission through teaching, research support, and service.

Christine WalczykView profile

Adjunct Assistant Professor

• Library Systems
• International Librarianship
• Solo-Librarianship
• +3 more

Christine "Tine" Walczyk is an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the iSchool, University of Texas at Austin, and an Adjunct Faculty member at the Department of Information Science, University of North Texas. She also serves as University Librarian/Distance Education Manager at Southern States University. Education: PhD in Information Science, University of North Texas MLIS, University of Texas at Austin Tine's research focuses on library systems, international librarianship, and solo-librarianship. She has explored how international service learning impacts LIS graduate students and emphasizes practical technology training for librarians. Scientific Recognition: TALL Texan 2006 (Leadership Development Institute) Faculty/Student Grant for Research on Service Learning ALISE 2020 Leadership Institute Participant She has led initiatives such as developing HTML classes for library conferences, building campus libraries from scratch as a Solo Librarian, and hosting the "Tech Tools/Trends with Tine" webinar series. Her work bridges academic instruction and practitioner-focused training in library technology.

Beth WallisView profile

Professor

• Information Literacy
• Online Library Instruction
• Assessment of Library Instruction
• +4 more

Beth Wallis is the Associate Dean at Kresge Library, Oakland University, where she also serves as a faculty member in the University Libraries. She holds a Master of Library and Information Science from Wayne State University (1999) and a Bachelor of Arts from Western Michigan University’s Lee Honors College (1997). Her research focuses on online library instruction, assessment methodologies, and the intersection of etymology with information literacy. Key contributions include studies on hybrid pedagogical models for information literacy and collaborations between librarians and writing faculty to enhance undergraduate curricula. Wallis has been recognized with awards including the McGraw-Hill-Magna Scholarly Work Finalist (2010) and Young Alumni Spotlight (2004). She has held leadership roles such as President of the American Library Association’s New Members Round Table and chairs various university committees on assessment, academic conduct, and library services. Her publications span topics like library journal clubs, credit-bearing information literacy courses, and the digital revolution’s impact on teaching. She has presented widely on e-learning strategies and librarians’ evolving roles in academic partnerships.