معرفی
Vanessa Svihla is a Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at the University of New Mexico (UNM). She holds a Ph.D. in Science Education from The University of Texas at Austin (2009), an M.S. in Geological Sciences (2003), and a B.A. in Geology and Russian from Smith College (1997). Her research focuses on learning sciences, particularly how people learn through design processes and the role of technology in authentic assessment. She investigates framing agency—the ability to make consequential decisions in learning and design contexts—and develops tools for educators to foster this skill.
Dr. Svihla's work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, using methods like regression modeling, network analysis, and design-based research. She has received the NSF CAREER Award (2018) for her project on Framing and Reframing Agency in Making and Engineering (FRAME). Her teaching includes advanced instructional design courses (OILS 601) and graduate-level instructional design (OILS 543).
- Research Highlights: Design learning, project-based learning, equity-centered education, and engineering identity development
- Key Themes: Material agency, socio-technical design challenges, and expansive empathy in engineering education
Her recent publications explore agency in chemical engineering education, equity-focused change frameworks, and speculative design for organizational transformation. She also investigates how students' cultural identities influence persistence in STEM and the role of faculty agency in institutional change.
Awards:
- NSF CAREER Award (2018)
Grants & Impact: Leverages NSF funding to create curricular innovations that enhance student retention and faculty-driven equity initiatives. Collaborates on interprofessional courses addressing climate change and public health.
Labs/Teams: Engaged with UNM's Chemical and Biological Engineering department, focusing on design-based research and equity-centered educational initiatives.
