UNL Tech EDGE is a partnership between Nebraska school districts and teacher education programs at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Concordia University, Nebraska to define and implement best practices in using new literacies and 21st century technologies in the elementary classroom. With multiple literacy standards already in place in Nebraska it is critical that we work together in this time of reduced budgets to determine how to best teach students these skills necessary in a global, digital world. The partnership uses open lines of communication regarding what is happening with technology in schools currently, what we desire to have happen, and how to best reach these goals. This project is infusing current best practices and research to existing teachers as well as teacher preparation programs to improve student learning, impacting teacher educators, master teachers who work with practicum or student teachers, as well as pre-service teachers. Necessary technology integration skills suggested by skilled practitioners along with research provided by education professors will be taught to teachers and professors in the partnership, enabling them to teach K-12 students and prepare pre-service teachers so everyone benefits from the partnership immediately.
Dr Guy Trainin
Dr. Trainin is a professor of education program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL). He focuses his research in technology integration arts integration and multiple literacies. Dr. Trainin has served as the external evaluator for Nebraska Reading First Grant for s six years, two Arts Education Model Development and Dissemination grants focusing on Arts and Literacy in Elementary classrooms, and a number of professional learning grants with Omaha Public Schools as well as ESUs and smaller school districts around the state. He teaches pre-service teacher reading and language method courses as well as graduate courses in technology integration and literacy research. He is co-founder of the KDS Reading Center, past Elementary Education Program Coordinator, and current Graduate Chair at the Department of Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education.
Omolara Oni
Omolara PhD student in Educational studies with specialization in innovative learning technologies at the University of Nebraska Lincoln. I am passionate about exploring innovative learning techniques that enhance student engagement and achievement. My research interests focus on the design and implementation of effective learning environments that integrate technology, pedagogy and content knowledge, intructional design and Educational Technology.
With a background in educational management, and Economics, I have developed a strong foundation instructional design and Educational leadership. I am committed to contributing to the development of evidence-based strategies that promote effective teaching and learning practices. Through my research, I aim to inform educational policy and practice, ultimately improving the quality of education for all learners
Williams Kwabena Boakye
Williams Ghana and a masters student. I have a Bsc Information Technology Education from University of Education, Winneba. I also hold a HND in Computer Science from Kumasi Technical University. I am a Research Assistant at the Department of Teaching Learning and Teacher Education. My research interest is using multimedia to enhance teaching and learning. This research interest was based on my experience as ICT teacher at Atwima Kwanwoma Presbyterian SHS where I had my pre-graduate internship. I realized that the learners were more excited and curious during lessons when I incorporated computers, video and images when teaching to explain concepts, processes and ideas. After graduating from college I worked as full time Computer Science teacher where I have realised the growing trend of new emerging technology such as GenAI and chatbots. The previous Ghanaian Government introduced a one ipad per child in all Ghanaian schools. The aim of this policy is to make learning more accessible. I have therefore decided to upgrade myself to help design new chatbots that utilizes the Ghanaian local language on these equipments to enhance self directed learning.
Michael Bergland-Riese
Mike serves as the Event and Outreach Specialist with the center, providing leadership and expertise in planning and delivering STEM-focused events. Previously, he worked with Nebraska Extension as their communications coordinator. Additionally, Mike also serves as co-chair for the Chancellor’s Commission on the Status of Gender and Sexual Identities; advising the Chancellor of concerns and issues that exist on campus and providing a space for community and education to the LGBTQA+ community. Outside of work, Mike enjoys spending time with his husband, Nick, and their two pets (cat and dog) along with friends and family. He is also an avid Lego collector and puzzler.
Kimberly
Kimberly Ingraham-Beck is a high school Computer Science teacher at Gretna Public Schools with a background in music education, technology, and curriculum development. She holds a Bachelor’s in Music Education from the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) and three master’s degrees: Secondary Education (Music & Technology) from UNO, Curriculum and Instruction from Doane University, and Computer Science Education from UNO. She is currently pursuing an EdD in Innovation and Leadership. Before transitioning to Computer Science, Kimberly taught instrumental music at Omaha Bryan High School for six years. Now in her eighth year at Gretna Public Schools, she is dedicated to expanding computer science opportunities for students. She serves as Vice President of CSTA-Nebraska and Vice President of the Nebraska Schools Esports Association, advocating for computer science education and high school esports growth. A frequent presenter at local and national conferences, she shares insights on computer science, esports, and innovative teaching practices.