Julia Olsen
CAPER Team / Steward Observatory
Other Interests
Dr.
Julia Olsen
is Research Associate for the Conceptual Astronomy and Physics
Educational Research (CAPER) Team at the
University
of Arizona and
Science Education Specialist for the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope
(LSST). She received a BA in
Elementary Education from the University
of Arizona (1989) and received a PhD in Science Education
(Teaching and Teacher Education) from the University of Arizona
(2007), with a minor in special education.
Her dissertation research focused on developing computer-based
instructional modules designed for the GEMS/LHS (Great Explorations in
Math and Science/ Lawrence Hall of Science at UC Berkeley) middle school
space science core curriculum sequence.
She is a former middle school science teacher whose lengthy
career focused on students with special needs and students from
underserved populations. She has
a strong background in computer science and educational technology as
well as astronomy/earth science education and special education.
Her teaching and research interests focus on science education
for students with disabilities/special needs and students at-risk for
school failure, especially in the development of technology-based
programs and materials to make science accessible for all students.
Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.
William Butler Yeats