Where does your international research/engagement take place?
UK: England, Scotland; Scandanavia: Norway, Finland

Please briefly describe your research/activity.
My work across these countries stems from European large-scale grants (e.g., DigiChild, a COST grant) and university-based symposia. The grants support European researchers by creating networks within Europe and outside (e.g., US and Australia). IU was a external partner in the DigiChild grant and I hosted graduate students and post-docs from England and Croatia during semester-long visits. I delivered multiple conference keynotes and workshops on research methods in summer institutes.

Why does your research/activity matter?
In the small research community around literacies, early childhood, and digital technologies, the Sheffield/Manchester universities in England are the leading hub of innovative scholarship and methods. This group focusees on the real world issues that children, families, and educators face when engaging dynamic new technologies. My research can make a greater impact by contributing to the knowledge base that is disseminated globally through collaborations with faculty.

What led you to this research/activity?
My play research emerged from an interest in expanding restrictive definitions of literacy in the US that did not recognize children's actual use of media and technology. I quickly found the most progressive and innovative research was led by scholars in the UK and Scandinavia. I was fortunate to receive invitations to present and attend conferences in various countries.

What problem do you hope this research/activity will solve/what are your hopes for this work?
Through my research on nexus analysis, I hope to provide researchers with tools to expose, interrogate, and expand literacy pedagogies that are constricted by a tight focus on skill acquisition that limits learning for young children.

How will your work create change for the better?
My work is enriched and expanded by conversations with international colleagues as we share ideas and possibilities for research.