Aek Phakiti

Professor Aek Phakiti is affiliated with the Sydney School of Education and Social Work at The University of Sydney, where he serves as a leading scholar in language testing and assessment and second language acquisition. His research emphasizes strategic competence, metacognition, and the application of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in education. Phakiti also acts as Editor-in-Chief for the University of Sydney Journal of TESOL and holds editorial roles for multiple international journals.

Phakiti earned his PhD in Applied Linguistics from the University of Melbourne in 2005, focusing on cognitive, metacognitive, and affective strategies in EFL reading. His work has been recognized with awards such as the TOEFL Outstanding Scholar Award (2010), FASS Excellence in Teaching Awards (2010, 2017, 2019), and the SUPRA Supervisor of the Year Award (2024).

His research explores the intersection of language assessment and educational technology, including automated feedback systems. Key themes include appraisal calibration, state-trait strategy use, and linking language proficiency to academic achievement. Phakiti’s recent publications span quantitative methods, AI-driven assessment tools, and curriculum design.

Scientific Awards

• TOEFL Outstanding Scholar Award (2010)
• FASS Excellence in Teaching Awards (2010, 2017, 2019)
• FASS Research Mentor Award (2023)
• SUPRA Supervisor of the Year Award (2024)

Teaching and SupervisionPhakiti coordinates the Master of Education (TESOL) program, teaching units in second language acquisition, language testing, and research methods. He supervises PhD and master’s students in TESOL and applied linguistics, fostering their understanding of cognitive processes and assessment design.