Arizona State University
Masters of Education
Learning Design and Technologies
About me.
Leader
Justin Eben (J.E.) Johnson is an Associate Director of Fabrication at Texas Performing Arts at the University of Texas at Austin where he is also an Assistant Professor of Practice in the College of Fine Arts. With his amazing staff, he oversees 10,000 square feet of Fabrication Studios that include all forms of making goodness including, traditional wood and metal working tools, sewing equipment, laser cutters, CNC equipment, 3D printers, and painting facilities. In 2017 he began teaching award-winning, “charismatic mega-project” experiential courses including practical special effects, animatronics, escape rooms, mini-golf, and velociraptor full-body puppets.
Entrepreneur
In 2015 he co-founded Maker Ready, a makerspace consulting and educational product company. Through workshops and coaching, his company’s “Maker Starter Kits” brought hands-on, project-driven learning into K-12 schools across Texas and all the way to Hawaii. In 2016 he and his co-founder were selected to facilitate a hands-on workshop at SXSW EDU.
I design learning.
I specialize in creating tools and systems for learning that focus on hands-on and embodied activities. My approach incorporates the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, ensuring that all materials are suitable for every learner. My research particularly centers on how AI can aid in adapting existing learning materials to make them more accessible and inclusive.
I build teams.
I have extensive experience in team-building, working with individuals of all ages, from kindergarten students to adult leaders. I focus on fostering a strong sense of community through collaboration and encouraging individuals to take risks. I create an environment that nurtures creativity and innovation, allowing for growth and development.
I manage projects.
When designing technical solutions, I prioritize ensuring that learners of all skill levels can participate fully. I tailor communication channels to each learner's abilities, and I recognize that effective project management requires attention to every aspect of production and communication. I ensure that every aspect of project management is tailored to meet the unique needs of each project.