معرفی
Dr. Nicola Sochacka is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Georgia's College of Engineering, where she specializes in engineering education research. Previously, she served as Associate Director for Research Initiation and Enablement at the Engineering Education Transformations Institute (EETI) from 2017 to 2022. Her work primarily focuses on qualitative methodologies, empathy integration in technical education, and faculty development programs.
Her research explores complex systems in educational contexts, with emphasis on:
- Developing qualitative research frameworks for engineering education
- Fostering empathy as a core skill in engineering practice
- Addressing professional shame and marginalization in STEM programs
- Implementing novel methodologies like SenseMaker® for real-time educational assessment
- Building faculty capacity for education research
Analysis of her recent publications reveals strong thematic focus on educational equity, professional identity formation in engineering, and innovative qualitative methodologies. Her work consistently bridges theoretical frameworks with practical applications for institutional reform.
As co-founder of the ProQual Institute for Interpretive Research Methods, she leads initiatives to enhance qualitative research capabilities among STEM faculty. Her contributions advance understanding of socio-psychological dynamics in engineering education while developing tools for more inclusive learning environments.
