Christine McConnell

Christine McConnell serves as Professor in the Educational Foundations and Curriculum Studies department within the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Northern Colorado. Previously holding positions as Associate Professor (2014-2018) and Assistant Professor (2012-2014) at UNC, she also held faculty roles at Regis University and the University of Colorado Boulder.

Her educational background includes a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Denver (2007), an M.A. in Education with urban education emphasis (1999), and a B.A. in English with Philosophy minor from the University of New Mexico (1996).

• Ph.D., Curriculum and Instruction, University of Denver (2007)
• M.A., Education, University of Denver (1999)
• B.A., English, University of New Mexico (1996)

McConnell's research centers on ecological mindedness in teaching and aesthetic perspectives of curriculum, exploring how perceptual teaching and learning connects educators with natural environments. Her CRISPA framework investigates aesthetic experiences in nature as transformative educational tools, while recent work examines teacher empowerment through fluid curriculum design for equity implementation. This interdisciplinary approach bridges environmental philosophy, character education, and Deweyan aesthetics.

Analysis of her publications reveals consistent focus on curriculum theory and teacher agency, with increasing emphasis on ecological consciousness in educational settings since 2017. Her work demonstrates methodological innovation through adaptation of Eisner's connoisseurship framework for qualitative research.

Notable recognitions include:

• Outstanding Book Award (2021) for Lesson Planning with Purpose
• Admission to Professors of Curriculum (2012)
• Outstanding Dissertation Award (2008)

McConnell has directed significant programs including the Educational Studies Doctorate (2014-2022), Master of Arts in Teaching: Curriculum Studies, and the Colorado School of Mines-UNC STEM Teacher Licensure Partnership. Her leadership extends to coordinating K-12 teacher preparation programs and university-school partnerships, demonstrating commitment to practical application of curriculum theory in diverse educational settings.