Jolene Zywica

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About

Jolene Zywica is an educational researcher whose work centers on youth engagement, technical learning, and informal STEM education — particularly within afterschool robotics programs. Her research explores how young people develop technical knowledge and motivation through hands-on design experiences, with a focus on making STEM accessible and compelling for diverse learners. Through her involvement with two notable afterschool initiatives — the Digital Youth Network (DYN) and Robot Diaries (RD) — Zywica has contributed meaningful insights into how different pedagogical approaches can spark interest and participation in robotics and technical design among youth. Her 2012 chapter on building technical knowledge and engagement has garnered 5 citations, while her 2015 work on robotics community experiences has attracted 2 citations, reflecting a growing body of scholarship in informal learning environments. Zywica's contributions are particularly valuable for educators and researchers interested in designing afterschool programs that go beyond rote instruction, instead cultivating genuine enthusiasm and skill-building in technology. Her work underscores the importance of community, motivation, and contextually rich learning experiences in shaping the next generation of technically literate young people.