Jenn K Bergen

Jenn K Bergen is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Winnipeg, specializing in citizenship education, anti-racist pedagogy, and civic engagement. Her research bridges theory and practice, focusing on how educators can foster critical democratic participation among students.

Education:

• PhD in Education, Social, Culture, & Literacies, University of Ottawa (2020)
• Master of Public Administration, Education Policy, University of Regina (2011)
• Bachelor of Education, English Education, University of Regina (2009)

Bergen's research explores the intersections of citizenship education, critical pedagogy, and social justice. Her work examines how teacher education programs can better prepare educators to address issues of racism, gender diversity, and democratic participation. Recent projects focus on the experiences of gender-diverse people in Saskatchewan and how citizen science can enhance civic education in classrooms. She approaches these topics through participatory action research and critical discourse analysis, emphasizing student voice and community engagement.

Her publications reveal a consistent focus on preparing teachers to address complex social issues through critical approaches to citizenship education. Bergen's work demonstrates how educational practices can move beyond superficial engagement to foster deep understanding of social justice issues and meaningful democratic participation.

Scientific Awards:

• Social Sciences & Humanities Research Council Scholarship (2018)
• Ontario Graduate Scholarship (2017)
• University of Ottawa Excellence Scholarship (2017)
• Outstanding Graduate Paper Award (2015)
• University of Ottawa PhD Scholarship (2014)

Bergen has collaborated extensively with community organizations, government agencies like Elections Canada, and national youth leadership programs. Her teaching experience includes instructing history education courses at both intermediate and senior divisions. She has served as Graduate Student Representative for the Citizenship Education Research Network and as a member of the Critical Research Collective at the University of Ottawa.

Her research often involves collaborative partnerships with community organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies to explore innovative approaches to civic education and democratic engagement.