EdD (Candidate), Instructional Technology, Northern Illinois University
MSEd, Instructional Technology, Northern Illinois University
BA, International Relations, United States International University – Africa

I lived in Nairobi, Kenya, before coming to NIU to pursue graduate studies. I am presently working on my dissertation, which explores the use of multi-user virtual environments for online problem-based learning. My research interests include: online learning technologies, online collaborative learning, games and simulations.

Working at the Learning Center over the years has given me the opportunity of being part of a great team. I enjoy working with a wide range of technologies, and I am always happy to answer questions about Learning Center’s resources. Prior to working at the Learning Center, I worked in the areas of information science, media and technology and faculty support.

In my spare time, I play video games, such as the annual FIFA series and strategy games like SOCOM. I also play soccer for Minh’s Dynasty in DeKalb Park District’s Men’s Open Soccer League.

Publications

Omale, N., Hung, W-C., Luetkehans, L., & Cooke-Plagwitz, J. 2009. “Learning in 3-D Multi-User Virtual Environments: Exploring the use of unique 3-D attributes for online problem-based learning.” British Journal of Educational Technology 40:3, 480-495.

Omale, N., Hung, W-C., Luetkehans, L., & Cooke-Plagwitz, J. 2007. “The impact of 3-D based group interactions in an on-line problem-based learning environment.” In C. Chinn, G. Erkens, & S. Puntambekar (Eds.). Computer Supported Collaborative Learning: Mice, Minds, and Society. Proceedings of the Seventh International Computer Supported Collaborative Learning Conference (CSCL 2007), 557-559. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.

Submitted Manuscripts

Omale, N., Luetkehans, L., Hung, W-C., & Cooke-Plagwitz, J. (In Review). “Learners’ engagement with Second Life throughout the stages of problem-based learning: An application of the community of inquiry model.”

Conference Presentations

Hung, W-C., Jeng, I., Omale, N., Sheu, F. R. 2009. “Exploring the use of three-dimensional (3-D) virtual environments to support outside classroom collaboration.” Paper presented by co-authors at the American Educational Research Association (AERA) Conference. San Diego, California.

Omale, N., Hung, W-C., Luetkehans, L., Cooke-Plagwitz, J., & Click, A. 2008. “Exploring the use of 3-D attributes for online problem-based learning: An application of the Community of Inquiry model.” Paper presented at the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) Conference. Orlando, Florida.

Omale, N., Hung, W-C., Luetkehans, L., & Cooke-Plagwitz, J. 2007. “The impact of 3-D based group interactions in an on-line problem-based learning environment.” Paper presented at the Computer Supported Collaborative Learning Conference (CSCL). New Brunswick, New Jersey.

Affiliations

American Educational Research Association (AERA)
Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT)
International Society of the Learning Sciences (ISLS)

Links

BBC Africa News
English Premier League

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