معرفی
Nathan Mentzer is a Professor at Purdue University's Purdue Polytechnic Institute with a joint appointment in the College of Education. He specializes in preparing Engineering/Technology teacher candidates for licensure, focusing on pedagogical content knowledge and secondary-level engineering design thinking. His educational background includes a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Utah State University (2008) with concentration in Engineering and Technology Education, an M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction (Montana State University, 2001), and a B.S. in Technology Education (Montana State University, 1999).
Dr. Mentzer's research centers on Technology and Engineering Education, Design Thinking Pedagogy, and Integrated STEM Education. He pioneers innovative teaching models like HyFlex instruction and Learning by Evaluating (LbE) using Adaptive Comparative Judgment (ACJ). His work explores how design challenges, soft robotics, and collaborative learning enhance STEM engagement and self-efficacy, particularly through NSF-funded projects.
His publications analyze trends in design-based learning, peer assessment, and technology integration across K-12 and higher education. A 2024 QS-Wharton Reimagine Education Gold Award recipient, he has received multiple Gerhard Salinger Awards and Purdue teaching excellence awards. As advisor to master's and PhD students, he emphasizes interdisciplinary research in engineering education and co-robotics.
- 2024: Murphy Award for Outstanding Teaching
- 2023: Golden Acorn Award, AERA SIG Best Paper Nominee
- 2022: Christian J. Foster Award for K-12 STEM Education
- 2017: Silvius/Wolanski Outstanding Publication Award
- 2013: College of Technology Dwyer Teaching Award
Dr. Mentzer's NSF ITEST grants on soft robotics and co-robotics have transformed STEM pipelines, while his HyFlex research addresses post-pandemic educational challenges. His work bridges pedagogical theory and technological practice across diverse educational contexts.
