Power Learners was conceived and created by Connie Rothman as a way to share her love and enthusiasm for teaching.  Her positive, upbeat personality, insatiable curiosity and love for learning inspires our workshops. We emulate her friendly, inclusive and humorous approach  to teaching. Connie passed away from cancer in 2015 and the team takes her never-ending energy as inspiration, knowing she would be thrilled to see our powerful learners cracking problems and thinking outside the box.

Ian Stephenson is a lecturer at Bournemouth University’s National Centre for Computer Animation, where he teaches computer programming to animators. He also develops computer graphics software and techniques, which have been used by animation and special effects studios around the world. Though his background is in engineering, his long experience of working with artists and animators has led to an integrated, interdisciplinary approach to computing and problem solving. He can also be found playing bass in local bands, with regular gigs in the area.

Edward Rothman has multiple degrees including a masters in higher education. He has worked in diverse fields, including health care, health care fraud investigation, and a senior lecturer and administrator in higher education.  Avidly curious and a staunch sceptic, he is drawn to science. He always struggled as a student; therefore, he gets the greatest joy from helping students of all ages.

Armed with a degree in Computer Science, Phil Wilkinson stepped forward into the world of education. A geeky educator at heart, Phil can be found at Bournemouth University teaching Web Development, Digital Business Practices, and Media Psychologies, or running Coding Clubs at various schools. His soothing northern tones lends itself to his current research projects supported by Samsung UK, Dorset County Council, and the Isle of Portland Aldridge Community Academy looking at the role of digital technologies in children’s development at home and at school. He is always more than happy to chat about the challenges of raising digital natives; the negative and positive impact of technologies; and anything related to video games.