Julia Olsen
CAPER Team / Steward Observatory
Other Interests
Dr.
Julia Olsen
is Program Director for the Southern Arizona Science and Math Internship
Center in the College of Education. I received a BA in
Elementary Education from the University
of Arizona (1989) and earned my PhD in Science Education
(Teaching and Teacher Education) from the University of Arizona
(2007), with a minor in special education.
My
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. I
am a former middle school science teacher whose lengthy
career focused on students with special needs and students from
underserved populations. I
also have a strong background in computer science and educational technology as
well as astronomy/earth science education and special education.
My 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