Nathan Mentzer
Nathan Mentzer
Associate Professor
nmentzer@purdue.edu
765.494.0298
765.496.2700YONG 347
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Biography
Nathan Mentzer is an associate professor in the Purdue Polytechnic Institute with a joint appointment in the College of Education at Purdue University. He prepares Engineering/Technology candidates for teacher licensure. Dr. Mentzer’s educational efforts in pedagogical content knowledge are guided by a research theme centered in student learning of engineering design thinking on the secondary level. Nathan was a former middle and high school technology educator in Montana prior to pursuing a doctoral degree. He was a National Center for Engineering and Technology Education (NCETE) Fellow at Utah State University while pursuing a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction. After graduation he completed a one year appointment with the Center as a postdoctoral researcher.
Dr. Mentzer is active in graduate education. He welcomes advising master's and PhD students who are interested in Technology and Engineering Education, Design Thinking Education, and Integrated/Integrative STEM Education. Dr. Mentzer has a variety of funding opportunities for graduate students. Potentially interested graduate students should contact him to discuss research and funding opportunities.
Education:
2008 Ph.D., Curriculum and Instruction, Utah State University, Logan, Utah
Concentration in Engineering and Technology Education
Dissertation: ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AS A PREDICTOR OF STUDENT GROWTH IN ACHIEVEMENT AND MENTAL MOTIVATION DURING AN ENGINEERING DESIGN CHALLENGE IN ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION. Advisor: Kurt Becker, Ph.D.
2001 M.S., Curriculum and Instruction, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana
Thesis: Impact of PT3 Professional Development Activities on Teacher Education Faculty at Montana State University – Bozeman. Advisor: Scott Davis, Ph.D.
1999 B.S., Technology Education, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana
Montana Secondary Standard Teaching Certificate, Technology Education Endorsement
2018 Gerhard Salinger Award For Enhancing I-STEM Education Through Technological/Engineering Design-Based Instruction, Awarded to Purdue University Engineering and Technology Education Faculty by the International Technology Engineering Education Association (ITEEA).
2018 Purdue Polytechnic Outstanding Faculty in Learning, Purdue University
2018 Department of Technology Leadership and Innovation Outstanding Faculty in Learning, Purdue University
2018 Carroll Country Business/Community Partner recognition for engaging teachers and students in the NSF funded ITEST Soft Robotics grant project
2017 Distinguished Technology Educator, International Technology and Engineering Educator’s Association highest honor of achievement in performance, leadership and accomplishment for the field.
2016 Department of Technology Leadership and Innovation Outstanding Faculty in Discovery, Purdue University
2015 Leader to Watch, International Technology and Engineering Educator’s Association
2015 Department of Technology Leadership and Innovation Outstanding Faculty in Discovery, Purdue University
2015 Department of Technology Leadership and Innovation Early Career Teaching Award, Purdue University
2014 Outstanding Research Award, Association of Career and Technical Education
2014 Recognized for Excellence in Service Learning: Featured as March in the Center for Instructional Excellence Service Learning Calendar
2013 Nominee for the Purdue University Murphy Award
2013 College of Technology Dwyer Outstanding Undergraduate Teaching Award, Purdue University (student selected)
2013 Department of Technology Leadership and Innovation Dwyer Outstanding Undergraduate Teaching Award, Purdue University (student selected)
2013 Department of Technology Leadership and Innovation Outstanding Faculty in Learning Award, Purdue University (faculty selected)
2013 Teaching for Tomorrow Faculty Fellow, Purdue University
2011 Outstanding Manuscript Award – Research Category, Journal of sTEm Teacher Education
2009 Twenty-first Century Leader Associate, Council on Technology Teacher Education
2007 Donald Maley Spirit of Excellence Outstanding Graduate Student, International Technology Education Association
2005 Teacher of the Year Award, Darby High School Student Council
2004 Educator of Distinction Award, Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation
2003 Teacher of the Year Award, Darby High School Student Council
2003 Outstanding High School Teacher, Darby Civic Group
2002 Polette / Armstrong Award, Technology Education Association of Montana
1999 Most Outstanding Senior in Secondary Education, Montana State University
1999 Leo L. Knuti Scholarship, Montana State University
Full Articles in Refereed Journals
Mohandas, L., Mentzer, N., Farrington, S. & Laux, D. (under review). Expectancy-Value Theory as a Driver for Course Improvements.
Cleare, S. & Mentzer, N. (under review). Black women’s participation in STEM fields: A Systematized Review. American Educational Research Journal (AERJ).
Jackson, A., Mentzer, N, & Kramer, R. (under review). Increasing Gender Diversity in Engineering Using Soft Robotics. Journal of Engineering Education.
Jaiswal, A. & Mentzer, N. (under review). The Relationship Between Motivation, Contribution in a Team Project and Academic Performance in a Design Thinking Course. Journal of Technology Education.
Han, J., Jiang, Y. & Mentzer, N. (under review). The Role of Sense of Community and Motivation in the Collaborative Learning: An Examination of the First-year Design Course. Journal of Technology Education.
Thiyagarajan, S. & Mentzer, N., (under review). Student Problem Identification Strategies in Design Thinking Projects. Journal of Technology Education.
Jaiswal, A., Mohandas, L. & Mentzer, N. (under review). Expectancy Value Theory as a Driver to Improve Student Motivation in a Freshmen Design Course. Journal of Technology Education.
Cleare, S. & Mentzer, N. (under review). The Lived Experiences of Black women in STEM doctoral programs at Predominately White Institutions. Journal of Women and Minorities in Science and Engineering.
Sherman, D., Baniya, S. & Mentzer, N. (under review). Adapting Rhetorical Knowledge. Writing Across the Curriculum Journal.
Parupudi, T., Sherman, D., Mentzer, N., Chesley, A., Baniya, S., & Laux, D. (Under Review). Oral Communication in an Integrated STEM and Humanities First-Year Experience. Journal of Technology Education.
Jackson, A., Godwin, A., Bartholomew, S. & Mentzer, N. (Under Review). Learning from Failure: A Systematized Review. International Journal of Design and Technology Education.
Boseman, L., Keller, J., Mentzer, N. & Sparkling, A. (accepted). Applying Multiple Modes of Assessment to Evaluate the Team Work Competence. International Journal of Engineering Education.
Jackson, A., Mentzer, N, & Kramer-Botiglio, R. (Accepted). Soft Robotics as Emerging Technologies. Technology Engineering Teacher.
Walls, W. & Mentzer, N. (in press). The Design Assessment Matrix. Technology Engineering Teacher.
Huffman, T. & Mentzer, N. (2019). The Impact of Modeling-eliciting Activities on High School Student Design Performance. International Journal of Technology and Design Education. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10798-019-09557-x.
Baniya, S., Chesley, A., Mentzer, N., Bartholomew, S., Moon, C., & Sherman, D. (2019). Using Adaptive Comparative Judgment in Writing Assessment: An Investigation of Reliability Among Interdisciplinary Evaluators. Journal of Technology Studies, 45(1). https://doi.org/10.21061/jots.v45i1.a.3.
Johnson, N & Mentzer, N. (2019). An Analysis of Student Performance at the Intersection of Diversity and Information literacy. Evidence Based Library and Information Practice. 14.3. DOI: 10.18438/eblip29438.
Chesley, A., Coots, M., Jackson, A., Knapp, S., Mentzer, N., & Laux, D. (2018). The Impacts of Integrating English, Communication, and Design Thinking. Journal of Technology Education, 30(1).
Mentzer, N., Reed, P., Alnouri, M., & Barbarji, M. (2018). Fostering Giftedness and Creativity: Implementing Engineering byDesign in Kuwait. Technology Engineering Teacher, 78(2), 8-13.
Jackson, A., Mentzer, N, & Kramer-Botiglio, R. (2018). Pilot Analysis of the Impacts of Soft Robotics Design on High-School Student Engineering Perceptions. International Journal of Design and Technology Education. Advanced online publication. doi: 10.1007/s10798-018-9478-8
Ryu, M., Mentzer, N. & Knobloch, N. (2018). Preservice teachers' experiences of STEM integration: Challenges and implications for integrated STEM teacher preparation. International Journal of Technology and Design Education.
Mentzer, N., Laux, D., Zissimopoulos, K., R. Richards, K. & Parupudi, T. (2017). Peer Evaluation as a Formative Educational Intervention. Journal of Technology Education 28(2), 53-82. https://doi.org/10.21061/jte.v28i2.a.4.
Zhang, J., Jackson, A., Kramer, R., & Mentzer, N. (2017). A Modular, Reconfigurable Mold for a Soft Robotic Gripper Design Activity. Frontiers in Robotics and AI: Soft Robotics 4(46).
Johns, G. & Mentzer, N. (2016). STEM Integration through Design and Inquiry. Technology Engineering Teacher, 76(3), 13-17.
Mentzer, N., Becker, K. & Sutton, M., (2015). High School Student Engineering Design Process. Journal of Engineering Education, 104(4) 417-432.
Mentzer, N., Farrington, S. & Tennenhouse, J. (2015). Strategies for Teaching Brainstorming in Design Education. Technology Engineering Teacher, 74(8), 8-13.
Mentzer, N. & Fosmire, M. (2015). Quantifying the information habits of high school students engaged in engineering design. Journal of Pre-College Engineering Education Research (J-PEER), 5(2), 22-34. http://dx.doi.org/10.7771/2157-9288.1108.
Daugherty, J., Mentzer, N. & Nunez, H. (2014). The reality of the classroom: Learning the value of instructional planning. Technology Engineering Teacher, 74(3), 1-4.
Mentzer, N. (2014). High school student information access and engineering design performance. Journal of Pre-College Engineering Education Research, 4(1), Article 4. http://dx.doi.org/10.7771/2157-9288.1074.
Mentzer, N. (2014). Holding students accountable in team design projects. Technology Engineering Teacher, 74(3), 14-20.
Mentzer, N. (2014). Team based engineering design thinking. Journal of Technology Education, 25(2), 52-72.
Mentzer, N., Huffman, T. & Thayer, H. (2014). High school student modeling in the engineering design process. International Journal of Technology and Design Education, 24(3), 293-316.
Pieper, J. & Mentzer, N. (2013). High school students’ use of paper based and internet based information sources in the engineering design process. Journal of Technology Education, 24(2), 78-95.
Mentzer, N. (2011). High school engineering and technology education integration through design challenges. Journal of sTEm Teacher Education, 48(2), 103-136.
Mentzer, N. & Becker, K. (2010). Academic preparedness as a predictor of achievement in an engineering design challenge. Journal of Technology Education, 22(1), 22-42.
Mentzer, N. & Becker, K. (2009). Motivation while designing in engineering and technology education impacted by academic preparation. Journal of Industrial Teacher Education, 46(3), 90-112.
Conference or Symposium Proceedings
Mohandas, L. & Mentzer, N. (Under review). Identifying UGTA success factors that supports Undergraduate Student Learning Experience. Paper presented at the 2020 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Bartholomew, S. R., Jones, M. D. & Mentzer, N. (Accepted). Learning by Evaluating: Using ACJ for Learning through Assessment. PATT38 Conference, Finland.
Bartholomew, S. R., Mentzer, N., & Jones, M. D. (2019). Adaptive Comparative Judgment for Polytechnic Transformation: Assessment across the Curriculum. Paper presented at the 106th Mississippi Valley Technology Teacher Education Conference and the 57th Southeastern Technology Education Conference, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
Cleare, S. & Mentzer, N. (2019). The lived experiences of black women in STEM doctoral programs at a Historically White Institution. Paper presented at the Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues Annual Conference division of Underrepresentation in STEM, San Diego, CA.
Jackson, A. & Mentzer, N. (2019). Navigating design: Strategies for responding to failure. Paper presented at the Council on Technology and Engineering Teacher Education/International Technology and Engineering Educators Association 2019 Annual Conference. Kansas City, MO.
Jackson, A. & Mentzer, N. (2019). Examining beginning designers’ design self-regulation through linkography. Paper presented at the 2019 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, Tampa, FL.
Baniya, S., Mentzer, N., Laux, D., Holtan, A., Farrington, S., Eden, C., Sherman, D. & Zhang, L. (2019). Creating Interdisciplinary Collaborative Teaching/learning Praxis with Design Thinking, Communication, and Composition. Paper presented at the ACM SIGDOC 2019 Annual Conference, Portland, OR.
Baniya, S., Mentzer, N. & Chesley, A. (2018). Assessing Writing From Interdisciplinary Perspectives via Adaptive Comparative Judging. Paper presented at the Crow Symposium: Writing Research Without Walls, West Lafayette, IN.
Jackson, A., Mentzer, N., & Kramer-Botiglio, R. (2018). Intersecting self-efficacy and interest: Exploring the impact of soft robot design experiences on engineering perceptions. Paper presented at the 2018 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, Salt Lake City, UT.
Akdere, M & Mentzer, N. (2018). Improving Collaborative Intercultural Team Skills in Undergraduate STEM Education Through HoloLens Technology. Paper presented at the ASEE DC Regional Conference.
Chesley, A., Parupudi, T., Holtan, A., Farrington, S., Eden, C., Baniya, S., Mentzer, N. & Laux, D. (2018). Interdisciplinary Pedagogy, Integrated Curriculum, and Professional Development. Paper presented at the ASEE IL/IN Regional Conference. https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/aseeil-insectionconference/2018/pedagogy/4/
Jackson, A., Mentzer, N. (2018). Making meaning of design failure. Paper presented at the 78th Annual International Technology and Engineering Educators Association CTETE, Atlanta, GA.
Chesley, A., Mentzer, N., Laux, D., Parupudi, T., Kardgar, A. & Knapp, S. (2017). Assessing the Impact of an Interdisciplinary First-Year Experience Program. Paper presented at ASEE 2017 Annual Conference and Exposition, Columbus, OH.
Coots, M., Knapp, S., Chesley, A., Laux, D. & Mentzer, N. (2017). An Evaluation of STEM Integration Effectiveness by Artifact Analysis. Paper presented at ASEE 2017 Annual Conference and Exposition, Columbus, OH.
Curth, J., Erdei, R., Forte, J., Macdonald, L., Nguyen, P., Laux, D., & Mentzer, N. (2017). Integrated First-Year Polytechnic Experiences: Inter-Disciplinary Collaboration and Community. Presentation at the 18th Annual Midwest Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) Conference, Indiana University South Bend, South Bend, IN.
Fosmire, M., Johnson, N., and Mentzer, N. (2017). Using Design Journals to Uncover Information Literacy Habits of First-year Students. Paper presented at 2017 IEEE Frontiers in Education Conference, Indianapolis, IN. http://10.1109/FIE.2017.8190691D
Jackson, A., Mentzer, N., Kramer, R., & Zhang, J. (2017). Enhancing Student Motivation and Efficacy through Soft Robot Design. Paper presented at the 2017 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, Columbus, OH.
Jackson, A., Zhang, J., Kramer, R., & Mentzer, N. (2017). Design-based Research and Soft Robotics to Broaden the STEM Pipeline (Work in Progress). Paper presented at the 2017 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, Columbus, OH.
Jackson, A., Zhang, J., Kramer, R., & Mentzer, N. (2017). MAKER: Taking Soft Robotics from the Laboratory to the Classroom. Paper presented at the 2017 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, Columbus, OH.
Jackson, A. & Mentzer, N. (2017). Cluster Analysis in Engineering Education. ASEE Conference Proceedings. Paper presented at ASEE 2017 Annual Conference and Exposition, Columbus, OH.
Kardgar, A., Chesley, A., Laux, D. & Mentzer, N. (2017). Developing Strategies for Instruction and Assessment of Infographics for First-Year Technology Students. Paper presented at ASEE 2017 Annual Conference and Exposition, Columbus, OH.
Parupudi, S., Chesley, A., Laux, D. & Mentzer, N. (2017). Comparing Team Member Effectiveness in Integrated and Non-Integrated First-year Introductory Design Courses. Paper presented at ASEE 2017 Annual Conference and Exposition, Columbus, OH.
Schnell, M., Erdei, R., Rogers, C., Brown, L., Lipps, E., Laux, D., & Mentzer, N. (2017). Employing Undergraduate Teaching Assistants to Distribute Classroom Instructional Load. Presentation at the 18th Annual Midwest Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) Conference, Indiana University South Bend, South Bend, IN.
Chesley, A., Mentzer, N., Jackson, A., Laux, D. & Renner, M. (2016). Integrating Technology, English, and Communications Courses for First-Year Technology Students. ASEE Conference Proceedings. Paper presented at ASEE 2016 Annual Conference and Exposition, New Orleans: LA.
Jackson, A., & Mentzer, N., & Laux, D., & Sears, D., & Asunda, P. (2016). Student Self-Perceptions of Design and Creative Thinking (Fundamental). Paper presented at 2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, New Orleans, LA. 10.18260/p.25927.
Laux, D., Jackson, A. & Mentzer, N. (2016). Impact of Collaborative Learning on Student Persistence in First Year Design Course. ASEE Conference Proceedings. Paper presented at ASEE 2016 Annual Conference and Exposition, New Orleans: LA.
Ryu, M., Mentzer, N., & Knobloch, N. (2016). An Examination of Pre-service Teachers’ Sense-making of STEM Integration in an STEM Education Methods Course. Paper presented at American Educational Research Association Annual Conference, Washington: D.C.
Becker, K. and Mentzer, N. (2015). Engineering Design Thinking: High School Students’ Performance and Knowledge. Paper and Poster Session. World Engineering Education Forum (WEEF) Annual Conference, “Engineering Education for a Resilient Society”, September 20th to 24th, Florence, Italy.
Jackson, A., & Mentzer, N. (2015). Teacher Self-Efficacy: A Qualitative Study of the Effects of Practice on Graduate Student Instructor Beliefs. Paper Presented at the Society for Information Technology and Teacher Education International Conference 2015, Las Vegas: NV.
Mentzer, N., Jackson, A., Richards, K.A., Zissimopoulos, A.N., & Laux, D. (2015). Student Perceptions on the Impact of Formative Peer Team Member Effectiveness Evaluation in an Introductory Design Course. Paper presented at ASEE 2015 Annual Conference and Exposition, Seattle: WA.
Jackson, A., Mentzer, N., & Zissimopoulos, A.N. (2015). Factors of Group Design Decision-Making. Paper presented at ASEE 2015 Annual Conference and Exposition, Seattle: WA.
Ryu, M., Mentzer, N., & Knobloch, N. (2015). 미국의 한 대학의 사례를 중심으로 살펴본 융합교육 교사 양성 프로그램의 가능성과 해결과제, Possibilities and challenges of integrated STEM teacher education: Experiences of a U.S. university. Paper presented at the biannual meeting of the Korean Association for Science Education, Daejeon, Korea.
Connolly, P., Laux, D., Mentzer, N. & Jackson, A. (2014). Development and Implementation of Courses to Meet the Requirements of a Core Curriculum. Conference Proceedings. Paper presented at ASEE IL/IN Section Conference, Terre Haute: IN.
Connolly, P., Laux, D., Mentzer, N. & Jackson, A. (2014). Establishing a Core Curriculum at the College Level. Paper presented at ASEE IL/IN Section Conference, Terre Haute: IN.
Gregory, S., Becker, K. & Mentzer, N. (2014). African American High School Students' Human-centered Approach in Design. Paper presented at ASEE 2014 Annual Conference and Exposition, Indianapolis: IN.
Becker, K. & Mentzer, N. (2013). Modeling as an Element of Design Thinking in U.S. Secondary Schools. Paper presented at the International Conference on Engineering Education Research, International Network for Engineering Education and Research Annual Conference, Cape Town: South Africa.
Huffman, T., Mentzer, N. & Becker, K. (2013). High School Students Modeling Behaviors during Engineering Design. Paper presented at the ASEE 2013 Annual Conference and Exposition, Atlanta: GA.
Becker, K. & Mentzer, N. (2012). High School Student Engineering Design Thinking and Performance. Paper presented at the 2012 World Engineering Education Forum (WEEF), October 15th to 18th, Buenos Aires: Argentina.
Becker, K., Mentzer, N. & Park, K. (2012). High School Student Engineering Design Thinking and Performance. Paper presented at the ASEE 2012 Annual Conference and Exposition, San Diego: CA.
Daugherty, J. L., Mentzer, N., & Kelley, T. (2011). Technology Design and Engineering Design: Is there a difference?. Paper presented at the IAJC/ASEE International Joint Conference on Engineering and Related Technology, Hartford: MA.
Mentzer, N., Becker, K., & Park, K. (2011). High School Students as Novice Designers. Paper presented at the ASEE 2011 Annual Conference and Exposition, Vancouver: Canada.
Daugherty, J. L., Mentzer, N., & Lybrook, D. (2010). Perspectives on Technology Leadership. Paper presented at the Technological Learning and Thinking: Culture, Design, Sustainability, Human Ingenuity International Conference Proceedings, Vancouver: Canada.
Park, K., Pieper, J., Mentzer, N., & Becker, K. (2010). Exploring Engineering Design Knowing and Thinking as an Innovation in STEM learning. Paper presented at the P12 Engineering and Design Education Research Summit Proceedings, Seaside: OR.
Reviewed Conference Presentations
Bartholomew, S. R. & Mentzer, N. (Accepted). Data collection and visualization via $16 Micro:Bit. Presented at the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association STEM Showcase, Baltimore, MD.
Jackson, A., Isabell, T. & Mentzer, N. (Accepted). Soft Robotics as an Innovation in STEM learning. Presented at the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association STEM Showcase, Baltimore, MD.
Bartholomew, S. R. & Mentzer, N. (Accepted). Informed Engineering Design through data collection & visualization. Presentation at the 80th Annual International Technology and Engineering Educators Association, Baltimore, MD.
Jackson, A. & Mentzer, N. (Accepted). Robotics Education Panel Discussion. Presentation at the 80th Annual International Technology and Engineering Educators Association, Baltimore, MD.
Jackson, A. & Mentzer, N. (Accepted). Soft Robotics in the Classroom. Presentation at the 80th Annual International Technology and Engineering Educators Association, Baltimore, MD.
Bartholomew, S. R. & Mentzer, N. (Accepted). Micro Go-Karts: Infusing Engineering Design with Data Visualization. Workshop presented at the 5nd Annual Indiana STEM Education Conference, West Lafayette, IN.
Jackson, A., Mentzer, N., & Kramer, R. (2019). Soft robotics in the classroom. Presentation at the 79th Annual International Technology and Engineering Educators Association, Kansas City, MO.
Mentzer, N., Jackson, A., Kramer, R., & Zhang, J. (2019). Pilot Results: Increasing STEM Self-efficacy and Motivation through Soft Robotics Design. Presented at the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association STEM Showcase, Kansas City, MO.
Floyd, T., & Mentzer, N. (2019). Elementary Literature as a Context for Design. Presentation at the 79th Annual International Technology and Engineering Educators Association, Kansas City, MO.
Mentzer, N. & Santana, V. (2019). Soft Robotics for Teachers. Presented at the 3rd Annual Purdue University STEM Teacher Professional Development Workshop, West Lafayette, IN.
Mentzer, N. (2019). Soft Robotics for Teachers. Presented at the 3rd Annual Purdue University STEM Teacher Professional Development Workshop, West Lafayette, IN.
Bartholomew, S., Mentzer, N. & Zhang, L. (2019). Wearable Electronics. Presented at the 3rd Annual Purdue University STEM Teacher Professional Development Workshop, West Lafayette, IN.
Jackson, A., Mentzer, N., Kramer, R., & Deck, A. (2018). Soft Robotics to Broaden the STEM Pipeline. Presented at the NSF ITEST PI conference, Washington: D.C.
Craig, S., Chesley, A., & Mentzer, N. (2018). Supporting Instructors and Administrators in Informal WAC/Writing Integration Programs. 2018 International Writing Across the Curriculum Conference.
Forte, J., Macdonald, L., Erdei, R., Chesley, A. & Mentzer, N. (2018). The Labor of Interdisciplinarity: Teaching, Learning, and Research in an Integrated First-Year Experience Program. 2018 College Conference on Composition and Communication.
Mentzer, N. & Mohandas, L. (2018). Active Learning in the Polytechnic Integrated Freshman Year Experience. Polytechnic Summit, Lima, Peru.
Jackson, A., Mentzer, N., Kramer, R., & Zhang, J. (2018). Soft robotics in the classroom. Presentation at the 78th Annual International Technology and Engineering Educators Association, Atlanta, GA.
Mentzer, N., & Jackson, A. (2018). Soft robotics to broaden the STEM pipeline. Presentation at the Council on Technology and Engineering Teacher Education/International Technology and Engineering Educators Association 2018 Annual Conference, Atlanta, GA.
Mentzer, N., Jackson, A., Kramer, R., & Zhang, J. (2018). Pilot Results: Increasing STEM Self-efficacy and Motivation through Soft Robotics Design. Presented at the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association STEM Showcase, Atlanta, GA.
Mentzer, N., Morehouse, A. (2018). Autonomous Vehicle Design Challenge with TI Innovator System. Presented at the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association STEM Showcase, Atlanta, GA.
Mentzer, N., Jackson, A., Kramer, R., & Zhang, J. (2018). Soft Robotics for Teachers. Presented at the 2nd Annual Purdue University STEM Teacher Professional Development Workshop, West Lafayette, IN.
Jackson, A., Mentzer, N., Kramer, R., & Zhang, J. (2017). Increasing STEM Self-efficacy and Motivation through Soft Robotics Design. Poster Presented at the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association STEM Showcase, Dallas, TX.
Jackson, A., Mentzer, N., Kramer, R., & Zhang, J. (2017). Increasing STEM Self-efficacy and Motivation through Soft Robotics Design. Workshop presented at the 2nd Annual Indiana STEM Education Conference, West Lafayette, IN.
Jackson, A., Mentzer, N., Kramer, R., & Zhang, J. (2017). Soft Robotics Grant Project. Presented at the NSF ITEST PI conference, Washington: D.C.
Mentzer, N., & Chelsey, A. (2017). Integrated First Year Design Experience. Poster presented at the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association STEM Showcase, Dallas, TX.
Mentzer, N., Jackson, A., Kramer, R., & Zhang, J. (2017). Soft Robotics for Teachers. Presented at the 1st Annual Purdue University STEM Teacher Professional Development Workshop, West Lafayette, IN.
Rogers, C., Brown, L., Lipps, E., Erdei, R., Laux, D., & Mentzer, N. (2017). The Benefits of Employing Undergraduate Teaching Assistants to Support Instructors within an Active Learning Environment. Poster presented at the Purdue University Undergraduate Research and Poster Symposium, West Lafayette, IN.
Rogers, C., Lipps, E., Brown, L., Erdei, R., Laux, D., & Mentzer, N. (2017). Employing Undergraduate Teaching Assistants to Support Instructors within an Active Learning Environment. Poster presented at the Purdue Polytechnic Institute’s Faculty Convocation 13th Annual Poster Session, West Lafayette, IN.
Chelsey, A., Mentzer, N. & Laux, D. (2016). Design, Communication, and Writing: Interdisciplinary Integration for First Year Technology Students. Paper Presented in the SIGDOC '16: Proceedings of the 34th ACM International Conference on the Design of Communication, Silver Spring: MD.
Jackson, A. & Mentzer, N. (2016). Evaluating and Enhancing Group Design Decision Making. Presented in the 76th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Washington: D.C.
Jackson, A. & Mentzer, N. (2016). Graduate student forum: Increasing STEM Self-efficacy and Motivation through Soft Robotics Design. Presentation at the Council on Technology and Engineering Teacher Education/International Technology and Engineering Educators Association 2016 Annual Conference, Washington, DC.
Jackson, A., Mentzer, N., Kramer, R., & Zhang, J. (2016). Increasing STEM Self-efficacy and Motivation through Soft Robotics Design. Presentation at the 13th Annual ASEE Workshop on K-12 Engineering Education, New Orleans, LA.
Mentzer, N. (2016). Integrative STEM in context: Soft Robotics Research in EbD’s Foundations of Technology. Presented in the Administrators Strand at the 76th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Washington: D.C.
Mentzer, N. & Huffman, T. (2016). Soft Robotics Grant Project. Presented at the NSF ITEST PI conference, Washington: D.C.
Risse, K., Lipps, E., Erdei, R., Laux, D., & Mentzer, N. (2016). Exploring the Employment of Undergraduate Teaching Assistants as Instructional Support within an Active Learning Environment. Poster presented at the Purdue University Teaching Academy Day, West Lafayette, IN.
Mentzer, N. & Huffman, T. (2015). Engineering Infusion: Integrative STEM (iSTEM) Through Inquiry, Design. Presented in at the 75th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Milwaukee: WI.
Mentzer, N., Laux, D. & Connolly, P. (2014). Transforming the core course in the college of technology. Poster presentation in the Purdue University Center for Instructional Excellence March Celebration of Teaching and Learning, Changing the Classroom Symposium, West Lafayette: IN.
Mentzer, N., Laux, D., Locker, C. & Van Scoy, M. (2014). Creating a dynamic learning experience for 1000 1st year students. Presentation at the Purdue University Center for Instructional Excellence March Celebration of Teaching and Learning, Changing the Classroom Symposium, West Lafayette: IN.
Beckwith, L., Nunan C. & Mentzer, N. (2013). Human centered design thinking in high school. Poster presented in the Council of Technology Teacher Educators at the 75th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Columbus: OH.
Dewar, J., McKeever, Z. & Mentzer, N. (2013). Team design thinking performance in high school. Poster presented in the Council of Technology Teacher Educators at the 75th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Columbus: OH.
Farrington, S. & Mentzer, N. (2013). Ideation in high school team design. Poster presented in the Council of Technology Teacher Educators at the 75th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Columbus: OH.
Huffman, T., Mentzer, N., Kaluf, K. & Kelley, T. (2013). How students learn design: Lessons from the classroom. Presentation at the 75th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Columbus: OH.
Huffman, T., Mentzer, N. & Thayer, H. (2013). Student utilization of modeling during design. Poster presented in the Council of Technology Teacher Educators at the 75th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Columbus: OH.
Huffman, T., Mentzer, N. & Oaks, W. (2013). EPICS: Engineering projects in community service. Presentation at the 75th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Columbus: OH.
Locker, C. & Mentzer, N. (2013). Rapid prototyping in context. Presentation at the 75th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Columbus: OH.
Mentzer, N., Becker, K. & Locker, C. (2013). Expert and novice design thinking comparison. Poster presented in the Council of Technology Teacher Educators at the 75th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Columbus: OH.
Mentzer, N., Fosmire, M, Marsh, K. & Conklin, A. (2013). Information literacy in engineering design. Poster presented in the Council of Technology Teacher Educators at the 75th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Columbus: OH.
Mentzer, N. & Oaks, W. (2013). Service learning through EPICS. Presentation at the 75th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Columbus: OH.
Zakaria, P. & Mentzer, N. (2013). High school student transition through design stages. Poster presented in the Council of Technology Teacher Educators at the 75th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Columbus: OH.
Becker, K. & Mentzer, N. (2012). Exploring engineering design knowing and thinking as an innovation in STEM learning. Poster presented in DRK12 Principal Investigators Annual Meeting, Washington D. C.
Becker, K. & Mentzer, N. (2012). Exploring engineering design knowing and thinking as an innovation in STEM learning. Poster presented in the P12 Engineering and Design Education Research Summit, Washington D.C.
Mentzer, N., Becker, K., & Pieper, J. (2012). High school student design thinking and performance. Poster presented in the Council of Technology Teacher Educators at the 74th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Long Beach: CA.
Pieper, J., Mentzer, N., & Becker, K. (2012). High school student information sources and design. Poster presented in the Council of Technology Teacher Educators at the 74th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Long Beach: CA.
Becker, K. & Mentzer, N. & (2011). Exploring engineering design knowing and thinking as an innovation in STEM learning. Poster presented in DRK12 Principal Investigators Annual Meeting, Washington, D. C.
Mentzer, N., Laux, C., & Pieper, J. (2011). Thinking lean for sustainability in the classroom. Presentation at the 73nd Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Minneapolis: MN.
Park, K., Pieper, J., Mentzer, N., & Becker, K. (2011). Teacher education implications of a national pilot study on design thinking. Poster presented in the Council of Technology Teacher Educators Poster Session at the 73nd Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Minneapolis: MN.
Sayers, J. & Mentzer, N. (2011). Integrating 3D Scanners. Presentation at the Engineering/Technology Educators of Indiana Annual Conference, Indianapolis: IN.
Becker, K. & Mentzer, N. & (2010). Exploring Engineering Design Knowing and Thinking as an Innovation in STEM Learning. Poster presented in DRK12 Principal Investigators Annual Meeting, Washington, D. C.
Denson, C., & Mentzer, N. (2010). Using Modified Verbal Protocol to Assess Engineering Design Thinking of High School Student Teams. Presentation at the Design Principles and Practices Conference, Chicago: IL.
Lammi, M., Mentzer, N., & Denson, C. (2010). How Students Think and Learn with STEM Design. Presentation at the 72nd Annual International Technology Education Association Annual Conference, Charlotte: NC.
Mentzer, N., & Pieper, J. (2010). Exploring Engineering Design Knowing and Thinking as an Innovation in STEM Learning. Presentation at the ACET Engineering and technology Education Division and Association for sTEm Teacher Education (ACTE) Joint Research Symposium at the Association for Career and Technical Education annual Conference, Las Vegas: NV.
Mentzer, N. & Becker, K. (2009). Exploring Engineering Design Knowing and Thinking as an Innovation in STEM Learning. Poster presented in DRK12 Principal Investigators Annual Meeting, Washington, D. C.
Chapters in Books
Daugherty, J., Mentzer, N., Lybrook, D., & Little-Wiles, J. (2013). Philosophical Perspectives on Technology Leadership. In S. Wang and T. Hartsell (EDs.), Technology Integration and Foundations for Effective Technology Leadership (Chapter 3, pages 42-56). Hershey, PA: IGI Global.
Government, University, Industrial Reports and Standards
Mentzer, N. (2018). Montana State University Technology Education Program Review. West Lafayette, IN: Purdue University, Department of Technology, Leadership and Innovation.
Householder, D. & Hailey, C. Eds. (2012). Incorporating engineering design challenges into STEM courses. Logan, Utah: National Center for Engineering and Technology Education.
Explanation of Dr. Mentzer’s role: Consultant and contributor for the NSF-funded National Center for Engineering and Technology Education’s Caucus (2012) that produced a report entitled “Incorporating Engineering Design Challenges into STEM Courses” (edited by D. Householder and C. E. Hailey). Responsibilities included engagement in intensive dialogues during on-campus sessions, preparation of statements on aspects of the development and selection of authentic engineering design challenges, and suggestions for revisions of successive drafts.
Mentzer, N. (2011). External summative evaluation of northwestern alaska’s bridge to employment through career and technical education. West Lafayette, IN: Purdue University, Department of Technology, Leadership and Innovation.
Reviewed Publications in Trade Journals
Mentzer, N., Deck, A., Lavendar, H., Handy, D., Wellman, B., Gurganus, J. & Strimel, G. 2019. Cradle to cradle design thinking: the life of a trillion plastic bags. Technology and Engineering Teacher 78(5), 14-19.
Mathis, P. & Mentzer, N. (2011). Classroom resources for civil engineering. Children’s Technology and Engineering 15 (4), 12-14.
Mathis, P. & Mentzer, N. (2011). Classroom resources for environmental engineering. Children’s Technology and Engineering 15 (3), 12-14.
Pieper, J. & Mentzer, N. (2010). Classroom resources for mechanical engineering. Children’s Technology and Engineering, 15(1), 14-15.
Invited Publications and Scholarly Presentations
Farrington, S., Mentzer, N. & Laux, D. (2019). Design Thinking: Developing socio-technical solutions to real world problems. Giant Leap in Human Trafficking Event. West Lafayette, IN.
Mentzer, N. & Denson, C. (2018). ITEEA Engineering by Design Advanced Technology Applications course update workshop. Presentation at the 78th Annual International Technology and Engineering Educators Association, Atlanta, GA.
Mentzer, N. & Fotsch, F. (2018). Robotics as a Culturally Situated. Presented at the 2nd Advancing Excellence in P-12 Engineering Education Symposium, Baltimore, MD.
Mentzer, N. (2018). Engineering byDesign™ Nitty Gritty. Presented in the Administrators Strand at the 78th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Atlanta: GA.
Mentzer, N., Grubbs, M. & Love, T. (2017). STEM Focal Points. Presented in the Administrators Strand at the 77th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Dallas: TX.
Mentzer, N. (2015). Integrative STEM Opportunities. Presented in the Administrators Strand at the 75th Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Milwaukee: WI.
Mentzer, N. & Huffman, T. (2014). Integrative STEM (iSTEM). International Technology and Engineering Educator Association Workshop for the State Department of Education, Boise: ID.
Mentzer, N. (2013). What are students [engineering design] thinking? Opening session keynote presentation at the Pennsylvania Technology and Engineering Education Association 2013 Annual Conference, Camphill: PA. (Approximate attendance: 350 teachers, administrators, national leaders)
Mentzer, N. (2011). Design thinking and information gathering. Presentation at the National Center for Engineering and Technology Education Preconference Research symposium at the 73nd Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Minneapolis: MN.
Mentzer, N. (2011). Exploring engineering design knowing and thinking as an innovation in STEM learning. Presentation at the National Center for Engineering and Technology Education Preconference Research symposium at the 73nd Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Minneapolis: MN.
Mentzer, N., Austin, C., Denson, C., Dixon, R. & Lawanto, O. (2011). Panel session: Inter-institutional research collaboration. Presentation at the National Center for Engineering and Technology Education Preconference Research symposium at the 73nd Annual International Technology & Engineering Education Association Annual Conference, Minneapolis: MN.