Karen Nolan
Computing Lecturer, Academic Lead, Computing Learning Centre
Email: karen.nolan@tudublin.ie
Tel: +353 1 220 7931
Karen is a Computing Lecturer and the Academic Lead of TU Dublin’s Computing Learning Centre. Before transitioning into academia eight years ago, she spent 15 years working as a Software Developer in the industry. She previously Lectured in the School of Enterprise Computing & Digital Transformation before moving into her current role at the University’s newly established Computing Learning Centre.
Karen is an active member of the Computer Science Inclusive (CSinc) research group and centre, which runs various outreach initiatives aimed at promoting Computing nationally. These initiatives, each with distinct objectives, are completely free for students, teachers, and schools. One of the longest-running programs is an inclusive Computing outreach model that engages a wide range of schools and student demographics. This initiative delivers a two-hour, in-person introductory Computing session designed to challenge and improve perceptions of the subject. To date, it has been delivered to over 10,000 Irish primary and secondary school students. Another key project, CSLinc, is a funded initiative that provides equitable online Computer Science curricula, ensuring sustained exposure to CS for students in primary and secondary schools across Ireland. The latest initiative, EDTips (Enabling Digital Technologies in Primary Schools), focuses on developing interactive, age-appropriate lessons for the new Primary STEM curriculum. This project also includes professional learning resources to help teachers confidently integrate digital technology into their classrooms.
Karen is currently pursuing a PhD in Computer Science Education, with her research titled: "K-12 Computer Science in Ireland – Factors that Affect and Influence Students in Formal and Informal Curricula."