Gameful Learning for Educational Leadership

Barry Fishman serves as the Arthur F. Thurnau Professor of Learning Technologies at the University of Michigan's School of Education and School of Information. His academic journey began with an A.B. in English and American Literature from Brown University in 1989, followed by an M.S. in Instructional Systems Technology from Indiana University in 1992, and a Ph.D. in Learning Sciences from Northwestern University in 1996. His groundbreaking research focuses on video games as models for learning environments, the design of mastery- and competency-based programs in higher education, and the development of sustainable learning innovations through design-based implementation research (DBIR), which he helped establish. Fishman is particularly renowned for co-creating GradeCraft, a game-inspired learning management system that revolutionizes traditional grading approaches by starting students at zero and allowing them to build up their grades through various pathways. His contributions to education have earned him numerous accolades, including being named Distinguished Professor of the Year by the Michigan Association of State Universities in 2017 and Fellow of the International Society of the Learning Sciences in 2018. Beyond academia, Fishman co-authored the Obama Administration's 2010 U.S. National Educational Technology Plan and served as Associate Editor of The Journal of the Learning Sciences from 2005-2012. His work on gameful learning emphasizes motivation theory and student engagement, focusing on creating environments that encourage risk-taking, collaboration, and deep learning.

Rachel Niemer has established herself as a prominent figure in educational innovation at the University of Michigan, where she currently serves as the Managing Director of the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) program. Her academic foundation combines scientific expertise and gender studies, with a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the California Institute of Technology (2007) and a BA in Chemistry and Women's Studies from Bowdoin College (1999). Her career at Michigan began in 2011 as assistant director at the Center for Research on Learning and Teaching, where she led programs supporting faculty, postdoctoral trainees, and graduate students in improving classroom experiences. In 2015, she joined the Center for Academic Innovation, advancing to Director of Outreach and Access, where she spearheaded diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives while overseeing public engagement initiatives. As Director of the Gameful Learning Lab, she has been instrumental in developing innovative pedagogical approaches that enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. In September 2024, she was appointed as Managing Director of WISE, where she leads activities, programming, and strategic planning to increase participation of women and gender minorities in STEM fields. Her work demonstrates a commitment to creating more equitable and inclusive learning environments while supporting innovative teaching methodologies