Project Manager, Doctoral Candidate, Sessional Instructor...

I grew up in a small fishing village on the eastern end of Prince Edward Island. In order to attend post-secondary, I had to leave my hometown. I obtained a BA (English) and BSc (Psychology) at Dalhousie University, as well as a BEd at Acadia University. While I was a pre-service teacher in the Faculty of Education at Acadia, the university launched 'Acadia Advantage'. This initiative pioneered the use of mobile computing technology by providing every student with a leased laptop as part of their university tuition.

After gaining some teaching experience in Nunavut and the Yukon, I moved south to Edmonton. I obtained a MEd (Curriculum Studies: Learning & Technology) from Acadia University and a second MEd (Educational Psychology: Special Education) from the University of Alberta while working for the Edmonton Public School Board. Technology allowed me to work full time and apply what I was learning to my work as many of the courses were offered on-line. I currently am a doctoral candidate with the University of Calgary in the Doctor of Education (Educational Technology) program. My research focus is on mobile technologies and designing technology-enabled inclusive learning environments.

I have 20 years experience as an educator in both inclusive and congregated classrooms. I have worked as a K-12 classroom teacher, a sessional instructor (face-to-face, blended and online courses), and an educational consultant supporting students with diverse learning needs. My work as an educational consultant with Edmonton Public School Board began in Special Education Programs. After finishing my second MEd with a capping project focused on leveraging technology to support students with special needs, I transitioned to Inclusive Learning Outreach to work as an Assistive Technology for Learning (ATL) consultant where I provided ATL support for students with special needs in schools across northern Alberta. In 2013 I was seconded to the University of Alberta as a Field Experiences Associate with Undergraduate Student Services. Most recently, I was seconded to Alberta Education's Technology Leadership Branch. Currently I am a Senior Manager in Research Branch.

I have presented on various topics such Inclusion, Educational Technology, Assistive Technology, and Universal De