He teaches courses in web design and development, web-based video, electronic music, and online cultures and environments. His research focuses on the design and development of interactive applications for large-scale, public touchscreens and how these environments can be utilized in a pedagogical context. Rick has been a professional musician for 30 years, having released 14 albums of original music with the bands Poster Children, Thoughts Detecting Machines and Salaryman and has performed extensively throughout the United States and Europe. Technology has always played an essential role in his creative output, including pioneering work in enhanced CD design, web presence and podcasting (Radio Zero). He holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a Master of Fine Arts in New Media from UIUC. CV