Dr. Emily Shank

Emily Shank is a mathematics content developer at 21st Century Cyber Charter School and adjunct faculty member at the University of South Carolina. She holds an EdD in Curriculum & Instruction with a focus on instructional design, accessibility, and motivation in online math education. Emily has over 15 years of experience developing interactive, standards-aligned courses for middle and high school students. Her recent research, featured in Educational Technology Research and Development and presented at AECT, investigates how self-determination theory can increase student motivation in online mathematics courses. Her current work focuses on bridging real-world relevance with rigorous mathematics instruction. With a strong background in both teaching and instructional design, Emily combines practical teaching experience with research-based innovation. She is passionate about helping educators design math learning experiences that are meaningful, inclusive, and connected to students’ futures.