Matt Bunch | General Education | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Matt Bunch | General Education | Best Researcher Award

Director of Software Development, Business Analysis and Education Technology at Harvard Medical School, United States

Matt Bunch is a distinguished leader in software engineering and educational technology, currently serving as the Director of Software Engineering, Business Analysis, and EdTech at Harvard Medical School. His leadership has driven significant advancements, including the integration of real-time data dashboards and strategic initiatives such as web standardization and Learning Management System consolidation. With a strong background in both applied technology and research, Matt has earned recognition for his work on the Smart Campus and Smart Stadium projects, receiving awards like the CDW NACDA Best Game Day Technology Competition. His research contributions include notable publications on online learning and educational video engagement. Matt holds a Master of Liberal Arts in Information Management Systems and is pursuing an MBA, demonstrating his commitment to continuous learning. While his applied research achievements are impressive, further focus on foundational research and broadening his academic publication record could enhance his profile.

Profile

Education

Matt Bunch has a robust educational background that underscores his expertise in information systems and business management. He is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Boston University, expected to complete in December 2024. Matt holds a Master of Liberal Arts in Information Management Systems from Harvard Extension School, which has provided him with a deep understanding of data management and technology integration. His undergraduate studies were completed at Fort Hays State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Information Networking & Telecommunication with an emphasis in Web Development. Additionally, he holds an Associate of Science degree from Coffeyville Community College. This diverse educational foundation has equipped Matt with a comprehensive skill set in both technical and managerial domains, supporting his effective leadership and innovation in the fields of software engineering and educational technology.

Professional Experience

Matt Bunch has a distinguished career in technology and educational innovation. As the Director of Software Engineering at Harvard Medical School, he leads teams in software development, business analysis, and educational technology, overseeing complex projects and ensuring budget adherence. He excels in integrating data from various sources into real-time dashboards, driving strategic initiatives, and improving processes across systems. Previously, as an IoT & Mobile Manager at Arizona State University, Bunch significantly advanced the Smart Campus initiative, which earned recognition in Forbes and won the CDW NACDA Best Game Day Technology Competition. His career also includes founding AllStar Fundraiser Online, a platform that has raised nearly $3 million for nonprofits. With a robust background in software engineering and a commitment to educational technology, Bunch’s work has been marked by innovation, leadership, and impactful contributions to both academia and industry.

Research Interest

Matt Bunch’s research interests are centered on the integration of technology and education, with a focus on enhancing learning experiences through innovative software and data-driven solutions. His work at Harvard Medical School involves directing projects that leverage educational technology and business analysis to optimize learning platforms and data management. He is particularly interested in exploring how data analytics and real-time dashboards can improve educational outcomes and streamline administrative processes. Additionally, Bunch is engaged in research on online course effectiveness and motivational frameworks for educational video engagement. His past projects, such as the Smart Campus and Smart Stadium initiatives, reflect his commitment to advancing technology in academic environments and enhancing user interaction through smart systems. Overall, his research aims to bridge the gap between technology and education, driving forward new solutions that support both institutional goals and learner engagement.

 Research Skills

Matt Bunch demonstrates a robust set of research skills through his extensive experience in software engineering and educational technology. At Harvard Medical School, he integrates Salesforce data, OEE data warehouse, and HMSIT Delphi data into real-time dashboards, showcasing his proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools like Tableau and Looker Studio. His role in developing the Smart Campus and Smart Stadium projects highlights his ability to translate complex data into actionable insights, significantly improving user engagement and system efficiency. Matt’s publication record, including works on online courses and educational video engagement, reflects his commitment to advancing knowledge in educational technology. His technical expertise spans across various systems and platforms, and his leadership in automating processes and managing large-scale projects underscores his capability in applied research and development. His skills in strategic planning, cross-functional collaboration, and innovative problem-solving further enhance his research capabilities.

Award and Recognition

Matt Bunch has earned notable recognition for his exceptional contributions in the field of educational technology and data analytics. His innovative work on the Smart Campus initiative and Smart Stadium project garnered significant accolades, including the CDW NACDA Best Game Day Technology Competition award and a feature in Forbes. His research publications, such as “Online Courses Provide Robust Learning Gains” and “Is Anybody Watching: A Multi-Factor Motivational Framework for Educational Video Engagement,” further demonstrate his impact on educational practices. Matt has also been recognized with various certifications, including Advanced Google Analytics and Data Analytics from Harvard Extension School. His leadership at Harvard Medical School, directing software engineering and educational technology initiatives, showcases his commitment to advancing the integration of technology and education. These accomplishments underline his dedication and influence in enhancing educational experiences through innovative technological solutions.

Conclusion

Matt Bunch is a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award due to his leadership, innovative projects, and contributions to educational technology and data analytics. His technical expertise and successful track record in managing and improving systems align well with the award’s criteria. However, to further bolster his candidacy, focusing on deepening his research experience, increasing his publication output in high-impact venues, and expanding his collaborative efforts could provide a more robust foundation for his nomination.

Publication Top Notes

  1. “Is anybody watching: A multi-factor motivational framework for educational video engagement”

 

Louise Nagle | Teaching and Learning | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Louise Nagle | Teaching and Learning | Best Researcher Award

Louise Nagle, Ph.D., appears to be a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on her extensive experience, impactful research, and leadership roles. Here’s a detailed evaluation of her suitability:

Profile

Professional Experience

  1. NTUTORR Lead at Munster Technological University (MTU):
    • Leading the National Technological University Transformation for Recovery and Resilience (NTUTORR) programme, focusing on transforming learning, teaching, and assessment.
    • Emphasizing digital transformation, sustainable development goals (SDGs), and equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).
  2. Project Leader for MTU Merger:
    • Led policy alignment during the establishment of MTU, demonstrating her leadership and organizational skills.
  3. E-Learning Projects Coordinator:
    • Coordinated e-learning initiatives, showcasing her expertise in digital learning and online education.
  4. Graduate Recruitment (Careers) Officer:
    • Provided career guidance, organized career fairs, and developed career-related resources.
  5. Director at Association of Higher Education Careers Services:
    • Directed higher education career services, emphasizing her commitment to student and professional development.
  6. Project Coordinator/Development Officer at South Kerry Development Partnership:
    • Managed community development projects and LEADER funding, highlighting her experience in project management and community engagement.

Education

  • Ph.D. in Business from the University of Limerick: Focused on business-related research, contributing to her academic credentials.
  • MA in Career Guidance from the University of Reading: Specialized in career guidance, enhancing her ability to support student and professional development.
  • H. Dip in Systems Analysis and Computing from National University of Ireland, Galway: Technical proficiency in systems analysis and computing.
  • Business Studies from Munster Technological University: Strong foundation in business studies.

Research Contributions

  1. Diverse Research Topics:
    • Focused on Gen AI, digital learning, and ePortfolios, demonstrating her engagement with contemporary and impactful research areas.
  2. Publications:
    • Published research on student experiences with ePortfolios, ethical excellence in educational technology research, and the impact of clinical placement on student nurses.
    • Publications indicate a high level of engagement with both theoretical and applied aspects of her research areas.

Collaborative Efforts

  • Collaborative Research:
    • Worked with higher education institutions and partners on various projects, showcasing her collaborative approach to research and development.

Applied Research

  1. Digital Learning and ePortfolios:
    • Focus on practical applications of digital learning and ePortfolios in higher education.
    • Research contributes to improving student learning experiences and outcomes.
  2. Project Leadership:
    • Led significant projects such as the NTUTORR programme and MTU merger, demonstrating the practical impact of her work on institutional transformation and policy alignment.

Awards and Recognition

  • Publications and Leadership Roles:
    • High volume of impactful publications and significant leadership roles within MTU and other organizations.
    • Recognized for her contributions to digital learning and higher education transformation.

Conclusion

Dr. Louise Nagle’s extensive experience in higher education, project management, digital learning, and impactful research makes her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work in transforming learning and teaching, coupled with her leadership in significant projects and her published research, aligns well with the criteria for this award. Her contributions not only advance academic knowledge but also have practical applications, benefiting students, staff, and the broader community.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Will you stay or will you go?: The role of incidental learning within a liminal space in shaping student nurses’ perceptions of nursing
    • Authors: Nagle, L., Mahon, J.M., Fitzpatrick, M.
    • Year: 2024
  2. A gap in governance: acknowledging the challenges of organic ePortfolio implementation
    • Authors: Nagle, L., O’Connell, M., Farrelly, T.
    • Year: 2019