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Colin Gray
Associate Professor at Purdue University
Professional Background
Colin M. Gray is a dynamic Associate Professor at Purdue University, specializing in the Department of Computer Graphics Technology. His academic journey reflects a rich tapestry of experience in educational technology, graphic design, and the science of learning. As the program lead for an undergraduate major as well as a graduate concentration in User Experience (UX) Design, Colin plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of design education at Purdue. His academic influence extends beyond his home university, as he also holds esteemed positions as a Guest Professor at Beijing Normal University and a Visiting Researcher at Newcastle University.
Colin’s extensive professional background encompasses various roles that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. His early career includes impactful positions as an Art Director and Contract Designer, where he honed his creative skills. His journey through academia began as a Graduate Assistant at Indiana University Bloomington, paving the way for his commitment to research and pedagogy in instructional systems technology. Colin’s experience as a Quality Rater at Google underscores his keen understanding of design effectiveness and usability in technology, which complements his role in education.
Education and Achievements
Colin Gray's impressive educational credentials lay the foundation for his comprehensive understanding of design and technology. He earned his PhD in Instructional Systems Technology from Indiana University Bloomington, a program known for its rigorous examination of learning technologies and methodologies. Furthermore, his M.Ed. in Educational Technology from the University of South Carolina and his M.A. in Graphic Design from Savannah College of Art and Design deepen his expertise in how design principles can be effectively employed within educational contexts. Notably, his undergraduate degree in Graphic Design from Bob Jones University ensures a strong grounding in the artistic aspects of his work.
Through his academic pursuits, Colin has made significant contributions to the field of design education and the development of design practices. His interdisciplinary research focuses on the relationship between design pedagogy and professional identity formation, particularly emphasizing ethics and design knowledge. By blending theory with practice, Colin is at the forefront of advancing how individuals in design roles learn and evolve.
Research Interests
Colin’s research interests are diverse and impactful, crossing several disciplines, including engineering education, instructional design and technology, design theory, and human-computer interaction. He is particularly passionate about understanding how designers learn to develop their skills and the ethical implications intertwined with these processes. By investigating the pedagogical strategies employed within design education, Colin aims to enhance how aspiring designers can better prepare themselves for the complexities of the professional world.
His work emphasizes not just the technical skills necessary for success in design but also the critical thinking required for effective decision-making and ethical considerations in the field. Colin’s interdisciplinary approach to research has fostered collaboration across academia and industry, ensuring that his findings have practical applications in various educational environments.
Notable Achievements
Colin Gray’s journey has been marked by meaningful achievements that showcase his commitment to education and design. As an Associate Professor at Purdue University, he has influenced countless students pursuing careers in UX Design, helping them build a solid foundation in both design theory and practical application. His role as program lead is critical in shaping a curriculum that stays ahead of industry trends, preparing students to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of design technology.
In addition to his teaching role, Colin’s work as a Visiting Researcher at Newcastle University allows him to expand his research outreach and collaborate with fellow academics, further enriching his insights into both design practice and education. His involvement with Beijing Normal University as a Guest Professor illustrates his global approach to education, fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange in the field of design.
His contributions to the academic community extend beyond his active teaching and research roles. Colin remains engaged in the design industry, ensuring that his academic insights reflect real-world practices and challenges. By remaining connected to professional design work, Colin’s research remains relevant and impactful, effectively bridging the gap between education and industry.
tags:[
Associate Professor
Purdue University
Graphic Design
User Experience Design
Instructional Systems Technology
Educational Technology
Design Education
Human-Computer Interaction
Ethics in Design
Design Knowledge
Professional Identity Formation
Learning Design and Technology
Highlights
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