Laurie Coker EdD is the creator of MagicSpells, a haptically-enhanced app designed to improve vocabulary acquisition by combining sight, sound, and touch for an immersive learning experience. An experienced educator with over 30 years of teaching high school English Language Arts, Laurie is passionate about integrating technology and innovative methods into education. She holds an EdD in Instructional Systems Design and Technology from Sam Houston State University, a Master’s in Multicultural Special Education, and a BA in English from the University of Texas at Austin.
Laurie specializes in instructional design, virtual learning environments, and multisensory educational tools. She has presented her research on game-based learning, VR, AI, and haptics in language learning at SXSWedu, Serious Play, and the Texas Library Association Conference. Her work focuses on helping diverse learners, especially those with dyslexia, overcome language acquisition challenges.
In addition to her teaching career, Laurie has worked as a freelance writer, film critic, and presenter. She remains committed to fostering inclusive and innovative education.
Elizabeth Gross PhD is an Associate Professor with a postdoctoral background in mechanical engineering education. Her research spans information seeking, learning sciences, and the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool for both librarians and library users. She strongly focuses on education and technology and explores how AI can improve how people access and process information, particularly within the library context.
In her collaborative work with MagicSpells, Elizabeth applies her expertise in research and learning sciences to assist in developing innovative educational tools. By leveraging her understanding of AI, she helps bridge the gap between advanced technology and practical applications in education, aiming to create more accessible and effective learning experiences.
Elizabeth’s work advances academic research and contributes to the evolving role of technology in education, supporting learners and educators alike.
Ayra Sundbom EdD is a skilled researcher and collaborator who focuses on integrating learning sciences and technology. Her work emphasizes exploring the potential of virtual and augmented reality in educational tools and research. Ayra brings a background in information-seeking and technology enabled learning, contributing her expertise to projects that improve educators’ and learners’ access to knowledge.
As a collaborator on the MagicSpells project, Ayra plays a vital role in research efforts. She applies her knowledge of learning sciences to help refine and enhance the tool’s effectiveness. Her input ensures that the project aligns with the latest advancements in educational technology, ultimately improving users’ learning experiences.
Ayra’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology in education drives her to continually innovate and contribute to projects that have a tangible impact on learners, educators, and the broader research community.
As a collaborator on the MagicSpells project, Ayra plays a vital role in research efforts. She applies her knowledge of learning sciences to help refine and enhance the tool’s effectiveness. Her input ensures that the project aligns with the latest advancements in educational technology and AI, ultimately improving users’ learning experiences.
Ayra’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of VR and technology in education drives her to continually innovate and contribute to projects that have a tangible impact on learners, educators, and the broader research community.
Greg Topal is an expert in business development and product innovation, with over 15 years of experience in building businesses across diverse technologies, markets, and stages. As an operating partner at North Park Group, a private family office investment group, Greg specializes in leading product development, forming strategic partnerships, and fostering inclusive cultures built on trust and collaboration.
With a mechanical engineering (BSME) background from Northwestern University and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Greg has a proven track record in launching and growing disruptive technologies. His work spans industries such as touchscreen interfaces, haptics, UI/UX, consumer electronics, and automotive, where he helps drive the creation of innovative products that transform user experiences.
Greg’s passion for technology and focus on long-term value creation for family-owned businesses make him a key player in the evolving landscape of digital interaction. He collaborates with creators of haptic technology and educational tools like MagicSpells, aligning technical developments with practical applications that enhance users’ learning outcomes.