Ronald Erdei, PhD

A graduate of Purdue University (PhD 2016), I greatly enjoy teaching and find the processes involved with learning fascinating. My discovery efforts focus on the removal of barriers (i.e., valueless challenges) to learning, retention, and degree attainment among college students in computing disciplines, particularly those challenges faced by first-generation college students and those traditionally underrepresented in computing disciplines. My research consequently lies at the intersection of learning theory, instructional design, and computer science pedagogy. Of particular interest are the development and application of instructional practices that complement student learning with additional secondary benefits (i.e., practices that yield desirable outcomes in addition to learning) such as increased self-efficacy, increased retention/graduation rate, increased matriculation into the workforce, and accelerated development of professional identity.

Prior to coming to USCB, I taught at Purdue University – which is where I discovered my love of teaching and my fascination with how students learn. Prior to entering academia, I worked in various data-centric roles in IT, including: data analyst, database developer, and database administrator.