Education Specialist

Regina, SK

Contact Janice Cotcher


Proficiencies

Course Development

Online Learning & Assessment Management

Project-Based Learning

Version Control Management

Digital Educational Content Creation

Code Documentation and Technical Writing

Developing User-Guides

Professional Development for Educational Software

Independent Learning

Event Coordination and Project Management


Technical Proficiencies

Programming languages: Python, C, C++, JavaScript

Markup Languages: HTML5, CSS, LaTeX, Markdown

Operating Systems: Windows, MacOS, Linux

Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Access, OneNote, Outlook)

Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Classroom, Meet, Gmail, Drive)

Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Dreamweaver, Acrobat Pro)

Cloud computing platforms: iCloud, OneDrive, Google Drive


Education

Bachelor of Science (expected completion Spring 2027)
September 2024 - Present

Major: Computer Science
University of Regina, Regina, SK


Inclusive Education Certificate (expected completion Spring 2027)
September 2024 - Present

Centre for Continued Learning, University of Regina, Regina, SK


Bachelor of Science
January 2008 - May 2011

Major: Mathematics, Minor: Physics
University of Regina, Regina, SK


Bachelor of Education (Secondary)
September 1996 - May 2000

Major: Mathematics, Minor: English
University of Regina, Regina, SK




Projects

Shadows in the Schoolyard
September 2023 - August 2024

A texted-based Role-Playing Game (RPG) created as an example for Computer Science 30 students. The program demonstrates the following concepts: variables, data types, control structures, functions, modular design, file I/O, basic cryptography, input validation, error handling, unit testing, and object-oriented programming.


Apple Health XML data to Apple Fitness workout
July 2024

A Python program paired with an Apple Shortcuts script that restores all recorded workouts from an exported Apple Health XML file.


Bluesky Flatlanders’ Feed
September 2024 - Present

Django implementation of an AT Protocol custom feed for the social media site Bluesky. I have contributed to the project with bug fixes, improving filtering efficiency, as well as improving documentation.


CS 20: Introduction to Creative Computing
June 2019 - September 2024

An interactive online textbook for Saskatchewan's Computer Science 20 curriculum. Students learn CS concepts and Python coding while creating art and interactive media. The website includes lessons, practice questions, and hand-in assignments.


Math Central: Math Beyond School
May - August 2008, May - August 2009
  • Developed online content showcasing the real-world applications of mathematics, synthesizing complex concepts for a general audience.
  • Created graphics to accompany explanations using Adobe Photoshop.
  • Edited content prepared by a remote team of volunteers and student employees.

Math Central: Atlatl Lessons Grades 4-12
May - August 2008

Online resource for Grades 4 - 12 cross-curricular lessons based on the use of the First Nation's hunting weapon, the atlatl.


Finding the Optimal Dosage Schedule For Administering Tumour Fighting Drugs, PIMS Graduate Industrial Mathematical Modelling Camp, University of Regina
June 2008
  • Researched and developed a mathematical model for optimization of combination chemotherapy in cancer treatment for the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton, AB
  • Generated a report and presentation for conference attendees and the Cross Cancer Institute

Cooling of a Concrete Slab, PIMS Industrial Problem Solving Workshop, University of Regina
June 2008
  • Researched and developed a mathematical model for curing large slabs of concrete when building a dam
  • Generated a report and presentation for conference attendees

Report on PIMS 2008 GIMMC and IPSW: pages 11 - 17, 103 - 112


Work Experience

Computer Science Educator, Regina Public School Board
August 2018 - June 2024
  • Employ online coding environments (Trinket for CS20 and Replit for CS30) to provide hands-on programming practice and assignments, allowing students to complete work from any device outside the classroom.
  • Develop comprehensive educational content for high school Computer Science using Python, Flask, JavaScript, HTML5, and CSS.
  • Design innovative projects, including interactive media and game development, to promote student interest in programming.
  • Redesigned Computer Science 20 & 30 assignments to provide tiered challenges, engaging both beginning and experienced coders to foster continuous learning and skill development.
  • Spurred interest in our computer science program by appealing to a broader range of interests like game development, art, and interactive media. As a direct result, the school expanded course offerings to meet increased student demand.
  • Boosted female representation in Computer Science 30, more than doubling enrollment of female students during tenure.
Replacement Teacher, Various Locations
November 2011 - June 2017

Short and long-term temporary teaching placements, primarily in Regina, SK. Responsibilities included designing and implementing lesson plans for mathematics, physics, English, and technology-based classes. Highlights include:

  • Developed a Feltron Project for Pre-Calculus 20
  • Implemented a project-based learning project for Physics 20 where students created solar water heaters while discovering the properties of light and heat.

Physics Lab Instructor, University of Regina
September 2010 - April 2011

Provided practical training in experimental techniques, including error analysis and graphical methods for PHYS 109 and PHYS 119.


Content Developer, University of Regina
June - August 2010

Created an online university statistics course for nurses, including a textbook and web-based activities focusing on self-paced learning and remote learning engagement.


Web Editor, Math Central, University of Regina
May 2008 - May 2010
  • Developed and curated math and statistics resources for teachers and students.
  • Facilitated an interactive Q&A platform, connecting students and educators with mathematical experts to solve complex problems and foster curiosity in mathematics.
  • Developed "Math Beyond School" content for Math Central, showcasing real-world applications of mathematics in industries like construction and engineering.
  • Demonstrated a solid ability to simplify complex mathematical and physics concepts for a general audience.
Research Assistant, Luther College, University of Regina
May - August 2008, May - August 2009

Assist in the creation of mathematical models of blood flow through blood vessels with aneurysm or stenosis.