Michelle Jensen

I am a Computer Sciences PhD candidate at the University of Wisconsin—Madison with a doctoral minor in Curriculum & Instruction. I am advised by Professors Matthew Berland and Rahul Chatterjee and collaborate with the Complex Play Lab and Mad S&P.

My research explores how undergraduate computer science students think, reason, and learn about security through a constructivist lens. By understanding and building upon students’ existing knowledge and experiences, I develop instructional approaches for integrating computer security throughout the computer science curriculum. My broader research interests include game-based learning, inclusive approaches to security education, and examining current research in security education. I am also interested in exploring a wide variety of topics in computing education.

Beyond my research, I recently founded and organize a CS education group in the UW—Madison Department of Computer Sciences, bringing together students and faculty interested in computing education research and teaching to support each other and discuss new ideas. If you are a UW-Madison undergraduate or graduate student interested in joining, please feel free to reach out via email!

I anticipate completing my PhD during the 2026-27 academic year and will be on the academic job market seeking faculty positions beginning in Fall 2027.

I previously earned my M.S. in Computer Science from UW—Madison and a B.S. from Butler University, where I double majored in Computer Science and Mathematics.

Outside of academia, I enjoy creating cosplay costumes (primarily through sewing), which gives me an excuse to pick up a variety of skills for my projects. When I’m not hunched over my sewing table, I’m usually playing video games or watching anime, which inevitably adds another costume to my pile of cosplans.