معرفی
Professional Overview
Gina Childers is an Assistant Professor of STEM Education in the Department of Curriculum & Instruction at Texas Tech University (TTU), serving as STEM Education Track Program Coordinator and editorial board member for the International Journal of Science Education. Previously, she held roles as Assistant Professor at the University of North Georgia, Director of Research and Development for an education nonprofit, instructional coach, and high school biology teacher.
Education
- PhD in Science Education, North Carolina State University
- Master's in Public Health & Curriculum/Instruction, Armstrong Atlantic State University
- Bachelor of Science in Biology, North Georgia College and State University
Research Interests
Dr. Childers focuses on informal STEM learning environments (e.g., science fiction conventions, museums), technology integration in education, and cybersecurity professional development for K-12 teachers. Her work explores how non-traditional spaces like fan conventions can foster science interest and identity. She leads studies on STEM career awareness and has secured NSA grants for cybersecurity education initiatives.
Grants & Awards
Recipient of TTU's 2023 Outstanding Researcher Award and 2023 Alumni New Faculty Award. Notable grants include three NSA-funded projects collaborating with the University of North Georgia on cybersecurity teacher training. Recognized with AERA's ARIEL SIG Best Paper (2017) and ASTE's National Technology Leadership Fellowship (2016).
Collaborations & Outreach
Leads a university-school partnership enhancing rural elementary STEM career awareness. Engages in projects promoting Indigenous science knowledge integration in environmental education. Co-develops curricula for students with disabilities using haptic-enabled VR technologies.
Professional Activities
Editorial board member for International Journal of Science Education. Active in AERA, ASTE, and other STEM education organizations. Advises research on gender-inclusive language in science contexts and climate literacy initiatives.
