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College of Idaho
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About Dr. Jen Wallin-Ruschman

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Expertise

Community Psychology, Social Psychology, Psychology of Gender, Psychology and Social Change, Community, Participatory, and Qualitative Methods

Personal Statement

I teach courses in community psychology and research methods. My teaching and research are both influenced by critical and feminist pedagogies. I think of learning and knowledge production as a collaborative and participatory process. An action orientation is also central to my work- come to class prepared to engage in real-world application and project-based learning with an aim toward social change.

As a community-based researcher, the topics I investigate shift with the community I am working with and their identified needs. However, my approach to research is always rooted in respect for multiple ways of knowing and the experiences of research participants. I mix methods when conducting research but I often focus more on qualitative methodologies, including focus groups, photovoice, open-ended surveys, and interviews. I love collaborating and mentoring students on research projects or just chatting about methods. Please stop by anytime to talk or explore ways you might get involved in research or action.

I live with my partner and two young daughters in Boise. I love coffee, dessert, and fantasy books. I enjoy running, biking, swimming, camping, and yoga but don’t always have time to follow through on these with regularity.

Professional Experience

2022 – Present Hansberger Chair of Community Collaboration and Engagement

2020-Present Associate Professor of Psychology, The College of Idaho, Caldwell, ID.

2016 - 2020 Assistant Professor of Psychology, The College of Idaho, Caldwell, ID.

2013-2016 Assistant Professor, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, Tifton, GA.