Jen Vanek, a 2017 graduate of the Ph.D. program in Second Language Education in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, is being recognized for her community-engaged research with the Saint Paul Neighborhood Network (SPNN). As part of her research dissertation, Vanek worked on the Northstar Digital Literacy Assessment project, which provides an online, self-guided assessment of basic computer skills. She also developed the complementary Digital Homeroom program that trained AmeriCorps members to teach adult refugee and immigrant learners digital literacy skills through computer classes in community-based organizations. Vanek designed the modules to ensure the needs of the learners were met effectively after assessing the challenges adult English language learners faced with digital literacy. She also secured funding to sustain the program and to train new AmeriCorps members to use it effectively.

Along with Vanek, her collaborators on the NorthStart Digital Literacy Assessment will be recognized as the SPNN “Partner of the Year” for their commitment to improving lives through digital literacy and advancing community engagement.

Learn more about second language education research, technology in education research, and the Ph.D. in Second Language Education program in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction.