Catherine Rita Volpe Johnston

Catherine Rita Volpe Johnston is a Senior Lecturer in Social Science Education at the School of Education, Faculty of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences and Education, University of New England (UNE), Australia. She serves as Chair of the School Education Committee and Course Coordinator for the Bachelor of Education (Arts / STEM). Her academic journey began with a BA (Hons) from Trent University and an MA from the University of Toronto, followed by postgraduate education qualifications in Australia, culminating in a PhD in Human Geography from the University of the Sunshine Coast.

• BA Hons (Trent University)
• MA (University of Toronto)
• Graduate Diploma in Secondary Education (Griffith University)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Research (Monash University)
• PhD in Human Geography (University of the Sunshine Coast)

Her research centers on children and young people's geographies, exploring identity construction in digital and diasporic spaces. She investigates emotional and gaming geographies, digital and visual methods, and participatory research with youth. A growing interest lies in artificial intelligence in education and the digital divide in the Pacific Islands. Her work emphasizes identity performativities across online and offline environments.

Her recent publications reflect a strong trend in digital engagement, student belonging in online learning, and the impact of AI on teaching and assessment. She also continues to publish on youth identity, migration, and innovative research methodologies. Her work bridges educational practice and human geography, with a focus on equity and inclusion.

Scientific awards include:

• Australian Award for University Teaching (AAUT) – Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning
• ACEL CSSP 2024
• UNE Vice Chancellor Citation for Education Excellence (2024)
• NEEC HTB Harris Memorial Award (2023)
• Multple UNE School, Faculty, and Education Excellence Citations (2023–2024)
• Australian Postgraduate Award (2013–2016)

Catherine supervises postgraduate research students in her areas of expertise and has been involved in significant educational initiatives such as the Commencing Student Success Project. She contributes to curriculum development and pedagogical innovation, particularly in distance and online education. Her work is supported through university teaching grants and recognition programs. She is an active member of professional networks and editorial boards.

She is a member of the UNE Curriculum Committee and Human Research Ethics Committee. She co-convenes the Geographies of Children and Young People study group at the Institute of Australian Geographers and serves as Assistant Editor for Linking Research to the Practice of Education, Associate Editor for Children, Youth and Environments, and Commissioning Editor (The Pacific) and Social Media Editor for Children's Geographies.