معرفی
Dr. Aleshia Hayes is an Assistant Professor at the University of North Texas, specializing in emerging educational technologies. She previously directed the SURGE VR Lab at Purdue University's Fort Wayne campus, focusing on Virtual/Augmented Reality (VR/AR), serious games, and gamified learning tools for educational and military applications. Her work emphasizes DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility) principles in technology design and STEM workforce diversification.
Education:
- PhD in Modeling and Simulation/Computer Science (2015), University of Central Florida
- MS in Modeling and Simulation/Computer Science (2014), University of Central Florida
- MA in Communication (2008), Purdue University
- BS in Psychology (2001), Purdue University
Research Interests: Dr. Hayes designs and evaluates immersive technologies for learning across K-12, higher education, and workforce training. She focuses on VR/AR applications, gamification, and ethical tech implementation. Recent work explores DEIA considerations in VR research, user experience in high-immersion environments, and metaverse ethics.
Grants & Partnerships: Funded by NSF, NIH, Department of Defense, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Projects include VR for teacher training, workforce development, and interdisciplinary game design initiatives.
Labs/Teams: Founded SURGE VR Lab (Purdue); currently leading UNT-based research on immersive learning technologies. Collaborates with NATO, commercial, and military partners.
