I’m passionate about teaching because it allows me to share my enthusiasm for learning experience design while guiding students toward meaningful and impactful careers.
Associate Professor
My teaching philosophy is centered around fostering an inclusive and collaborative learning environment where students actively construct their understanding through hands-on, real-world projects. Drawing from constructivist principles, I emphasize critical thinking, creativity, and the application of theoretical knowledge to practical problems, often from the perspective of learning experience design, ensuring students are prepared for diverse challenges in the field.
Teaching is a way for me to inspire and empower students to think critically, solve real-world problems, and apply advanced technologies to improve lives. I’m passionate about teaching because it allows me to share my enthusiasm for learning experience design while guiding students toward meaningful and impactful careers.
I am most interested in designing, developing, and evaluating advanced technology interventions that address complex challenges in education and healthcare, particularly for individuals with disabilities. Exploring cutting-edge technologies like AI and XR to create inclusive and effective learning experiences excites me because of their potential to transform lives.
I hope my students leave my classes with a strong foundation in learning design and technology, practical skills to implement solutions, and a commitment to ethical and inclusive practices. I want them to feel confident in their ability to innovate and create positive change in education and beyond.
I deeply value collaboration and open communication. I encourage students to take initiative, ask questions, and see challenges as opportunities for growth. My courses are designed to prepare them not only for academic success but also for careers outside of academia.
Beyond academia, I enjoy composing and playing music, and restoring vintage electronics and motor scooters. I also have a deep appreciation for creativity and design, which often influences my approach to teaching and research. My goal is to create a welcoming and supportive environment where students feel encouraged to bring their unique perspectives.
Matthew Schmidt, Ph.D., is Associate Professor at the University of Georgia (UGA) in the Learning, Design, and Technology department. His primary research interest includes design and development of innovative educational courseware and computer software with a particular focus on individuals with disabilities, their families, and their providers. His secondary research interests include learning in extended reality (inclusive of virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality) and Learning Experience Design.