Post by Huong Dinh

After two years of coursework while maintaining a full-time job, many late nights, and one very memorable summer at Brooklyn Bridge Park, I’ve completed my Master of Science in Learning Technologies and Media Systems at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology! As a concluding milestone of the program, I had the opportunity to conduct a thesis study entitled “Beyond Identification: Comparing the Retention Effects of Botanical Learning Technologies.” At the heart of my study is the question of whether technologies can help us pay closer attention to plants, rather than the other way around. To explore this question, I developed a new botanical learning tool, MosaMemo, for participants to test alongside an existing plant identification app—Seek by iNaturalist. The research revealed how embodied, collaborative, and outdoor learning—when facilitated by technologies—shaped what we remember about the plants around us. This study would not have been possible without the wonderful participants who generously set aside their time while remaining open and curious during the data collection process. I would like to thank my advisor, Professor Anjali Barnick, Ph.D., BSEE, MBA, MA, for supporting my study through every step of the process, as well as Professor Marian Gigliotti, ABD, whose strategic guidance proved critical at key moments. Immense gratitude also goes to TEN x TEN for having supported my pursuit of this degree alongside my work. Your flexibility, cultivation of a culture of care, and encouragement of employees’ professional growth continue to be an inspiration for my work and were crucial for helping me reach this finish line. I wrote more on the context, design, findings, and what’s next for the research in a longer piece below! All feedback welcome! If you’re interested in learning more about this project or testing MosaMemo, feel free to comment or send me a message. I’m also looking to connect with researchers, educators, technologists, and nature enthusiasts who are passionate about botanical literacy and outdoor education. Looking forward to being part of the conversation! #botanicaleducation #environmentaleducation #outdoorlearning #embodiedlearning #edtech