Belina Caissie
Educator, Project Manager, and Researcher in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Belina Caissie
Educator, Project Manager, and Researcher in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Educator, Researcher, Project Manager, Sessional Instructor...
I grew up in a small fishing village on the eastern end of Prince Edward Island. I moved away to attend university, earning a Bachelor of Arts (English) degree and Bachelor of Science (Psychology) degree at Dalhousie University, as well as a Bachelor of Education Degree at Acadia University.
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 recently completed a Doctor of Education (Educational Technology) at the University of Calgary. My research focus was 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 began in Special Education Programs. 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. More recently, I was seconded to Alberta Education's Technology Leadership Branch. Currently I am a Senior Manager in Research Branch. In this role I launched the Alberta Research Network and the Research Partnerships Program.
I have presented in Canada and the United States on various topics such Inclusion, Educational Technology, Assistive Technology, and Universal Design for Learning.