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MARIA DELGADO, PhD
Assistant Professor of Consumer and Design Sciences
Auburn University

Dr. Delgado specializes in teaching subjects including 3D modeling and parametric design process, 3D printing, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) application, design studio development, design-build methods, and design thinking framework. She employs a diverse set of evidence-based teaching strategies aimed at creating a high-impact environment that enhances student engagement and critical thinking. Dr. Delgado’s teaching approach is informed by Instructional Strategies Domain teaching effectiveness framework, with a particular focus on Active Learning and Learning Technology. To effectively integrate active learning and learning technology domains into her classroom, Dr. Delgado utilizes various tools, software, hardware, and platforms, such as Echo 360 and accessible slides, documentation, and videos that align with inclusive pedagogy principles. This comprehensive approach fosters a motivated and engaged educational experience, encouraging curiosity and critical thinking among students. In recognition of her teaching excellence, Dr. Delgado received an Honorable Mention for the Provost Teaching Scholar Award in 2022. Her research focuses on the application of technology to enhance user-centered design experiences, with a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. One of Dr. Delgado’s key research projects is the Architecture Virtual Library (AVL), an online platform designed to promote architecture education throughout Colorado and increase awareness and engagement in architecture through virtual reality experiences. The AVL collaborates with rural communities to co-create digital educational materials with public school teachers, thereby impacting the awareness of architecture among K-12 students in Colorado. The educational material aligns with K-12 educational state standards. The primary objective of the digital scans and augmented buildings tours are to enhance students' digital literacy skills, introduce students to AR and VR application for architecture education, and explore the influence of engaged scholarship on K-12 teachers to better understand K-12 technology limitations (access, financial, structural). Additionally, the project has documented best practices for successfully incorporating technology-driven approaches across other subjects. As detailed in the Funding Section, Dr. Delgado recently received a $47,190.00 external grant award from the Department of Higher Education - History Colorado to support the expansion of the AVL. To date, there have been 12,500 visits to AVL scans on the AVL website, with a total of 100,300 impressions from people engaging with the 75 scans, demonstrating significant global engagement and impact.
Recent Projects

Metaverse fashion is merging into reality, at least that's what they say

How do market mavens use social media?
Factors Affecting Social Media Usage by Market Mavens for Fashion-Related Information Provision

Shopping without the fuss
Areas of Expertise
Education
2018
Ph.D. in Design and Planning
University of Colorado Denver, USA
2013
M.S. in Architecture
University of Colorado Denver, USA
2010
B.S. Construction Management
Colorado State University, USA
Honors and Awards
Top Five Abstract Award, IDEC 2024 Annual Conference (2023)
Provost Engaged Scholar’s Academy, Colorado State University (2022)
Professional Advancement Grant, Iowa State University, 2019, 2022
Demaris Pease Family & Consumer Science Fellowship, Iowa State University, 2018, 2020
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