Dr. Jennie Ren

Dr. Jennie Ren joined Mercer University in August 2025 as an assistant professor of computer science. She earned her Ph.D. in computer science from Auburn University, specializing in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and computing education. Her dissertation focused on designing and validating a dual-layer HCI framework for a mobile cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) application, integrating system-level usability engineering with UI/emotional design strategies. She has published peer-reviewed research on game-based visualization and teacher-guided, project-based methods for enhancing programming education. With prior teaching experience in programming languages, software quality, and system design, Dr. Ren is committed to student success, innovation in pedagogy, and community outreach. She is excited to contribute to Mercer’s mission through teaching, research, and mentorship.

Education

• Ph.D., Computer Science, Auburn University
• M.S., Computer Science, Auburn University
• B.S., Computer Science, Xi’an University of Finance and Economics

Specialty

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), computing education, software design, and usability engineering.

Professional Interests

Dr. Ren’s research interests lie in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), usability engineering, computing education, and mobile health technologies. Her work emphasizes designing user-centered systems that integrate system-level usability with effective UI/UX strategies to improve engagement, accessibility, and learning outcomes. She has applied these approaches in developing and evaluating a mobile CBT training application for individuals with mild OCD tendencies, validating usability and emotional design outcomes through software testing, surveys, and heuristic evaluation.

In teaching, Dr. Ren is passionate about student-centered, project-based learning. She has taught Java II and MATLAB as an instructor at Auburn University, experiences that shaped her approach to combining theory with hands-on practice. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes structured thinking, logical reasoning, and inclusive pedagogy to support diverse learners.

Other Interests

Dr. Ren enjoys practicing Ashtanga yoga, which helps her maintain focus, balance, and well-being. In her free time, she values spending quality time with her family, finding joy and inspiration in the support and connection they bring to her academic and personal life.

Recent Publications

• Ren, C. (In Preparation). “A Mobile-Centric Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Platform for OCD: An HCI-Driven Approach to System Design, User Experience, and Comparative Efficacy Evaluation.” Manuscript in progress.
• Ren, C. (2024). “Teacher-Guided Project-Based Coding Practice Enhances High-Level Programming Language Learning.” ASEE Southeast Conference. Accepted.
• Ren, C. (2024). “Boosting Programming Success for Diverse, Large Engineering Classes: Game-Based Visualization and Phased Assessment in Computing Education.” ASEE Southeast Conference. Accepted.
• Raychawdhary, N., & Ren, C. (2024). “Empowering Undergraduates with NLP: Integrative Methods for Deepening Understanding through Visualization and Case Studies.” ASEE Southeast Conference. Accepted.

Contact Dr. Jennie Ren

(478) 301-2306
ren_c@mercer.edu
Office: Willet Science Center, Room 223