Alec Olschner
About Alec Olschner
Alec Olschner is a Senior UX Designer at Varsity Tutors, specializing in technology-based learning tools for STEM education. He holds a Master of Science in Human Centered Design and Engineering from the University of Washington and has experience as a science teacher in various school districts.
Work at Nerdy
Alec Olschner has been employed as a Senior UX Designer at Varsity Tutors, a subsidiary of Nerdy, since 2018. In this role, he focuses on creating user experiences that enhance educational tools and platforms. His work emphasizes the importance of technology in learning, particularly within the STEM fields. Olschner's contributions aim to improve the usability and effectiveness of educational resources, ensuring they meet the needs of diverse learners.
Education and Expertise
Alec Olschner holds a Master of Science in Human Centered Design and Engineering (HCDE) from the University of Washington, where he studied from 2016 to 2018. Prior to this, he earned a Master in Teaching from Whitworth University in 2010, following a Bachelor of Arts in Physics and Chemistry from the same institution in 2009. His educational background equips him with a strong foundation in both teaching and design principles, which he applies in his current role.
Background in Education
Before transitioning to UX design, Alec Olschner worked as a science teacher in various educational settings. He was a Middle School Science Teacher at West Valley School District for 10 months in 2010 and then served as a High School Science Teacher at Bethel School District from 2011 to 2018. His teaching experience informs his understanding of educational needs and user experience in learning environments.
Interests in Technology and Learning
Alec Olschner explores the potential of virtual, augmented, and mixed reality (VR/AR/MR) technologies to enhance collaborative learning experiences. He is also interested in leveraging machine learning to provide individualized feedback in educational contexts. His passion lies in designing technology-based learning tools that specifically cater to STEM education, aiming to create engaging and effective learning experiences.