Biology Seminar Series - Lisa Lundgren

 Level Up! Measuring Science Interest XP Gain at Comic Cons

A common requirement of granting agencies is showing that the work reaches wide audiences and has an impact upon them. However, showing that reach and impact can be difficult. In this seminar Dr. Lundgren will discuss her work with Cosplay for Science, where STEM professionals share their “nerdy” interests and expertise with people in the unconventional learning space of comic conventions.

Dr. Lundgren researches how STEM professionals do this and who is impacted. By capturing data about STEM interest and appreciation through visitor surveys, interviews, and observations, Dr. Lundgren helps STEM professionals show their impact in broad ways.

Dr. Lisa Lundgren is an assistant professor at Utah State University in the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services in the Department of Instructional Technology and Learning Sciences. Dr. Lundgren researches how people learn about science topics in various contexts, including social media, schools, museums, and comic cons. Her notable collaborations include Cosplay for Science, an educational organization seeking to foster science appreciation through the use of nerd and pop culture and The EcoLogik Institute, a nonprofit organization based in California committed to supporting the next generation of scientists and community change makers. In her spare time, Dr. Lundgren hikes, skis, gardens and plays Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: The Gathering.