Goria Sofia

Goria Sofia is a Teaching Professor at the University of Thessaly, specifically within the Department of Preschool Education. She serves as Special Teaching and Scientific Staff and has been actively involved in teacher training and early childhood education research. With extensive experience in both primary education (19 years) and tertiary education (4 years), she specializes in multimodal literacy, cartographic education for preschoolers, and the development of modern learning environments.

Educational Background:

• Graduate of the Pedagogical Department, University of Ioannina
• Graduate of the Preschool Teacher Training School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
• PhD in Preschool Education from University of Thessaly (dissertation on multimodal texts and cartographic understanding in toddlers)
• Postgraduate diploma in "Modern Learning Environments and Development of Teaching Materials" from University of Thessaly
• Specialized training as a mentor for teacher professional development (2 years)

Research Focus Areas:

Her research primarily revolves around multimodal literacy development in early childhood, with particular emphasis on how preschool children understand and create cartographic representations. She investigates the cognitive processes involved in map interpretation, the development of visual literacy skills, and the integration of multimodal pedagogies in preschool curricula. Her work bridges theoretical frameworks of semiotics with practical applications in early childhood education.

Research Publications Analysis:

Across her extensive publication record spanning from 2004 to 2019, a clear trajectory emerges focusing on early childhood cartographic education and multimodal text comprehension. Her work consistently explores how young children interact with visual-spatial representations, particularly maps, examining both theoretical frameworks and practical classroom interventions. The publications demonstrate evolution from foundational work on family-school partnerships to sophisticated investigations of multimodal literacy in digital and traditional educational contexts.

Professional Affiliations & Collaborations:

• Member of the World Organization for Preschool Education (OMEP)
• Member of the Scientific Association for the Promotion of Educational Innovation (EEPEK)
• Participant in the digital literacy platform (www.literacy.gr) by Language & Culture Laboratory
• Associated with the Theoretical and Applied Pedagogy Laboratory (E.T.E.P.) at University of Thessaly

Teaching & Mentorship:

She has taught key courses including "Theories of Preschool Education" and "The Process of Evaluation in Preschool Education" for four semesters as an academic fellow. Additionally, she has supervised student internships at the Pedagogical Department of Preschool Education for four years, providing mentorship to prospective teachers in their professional development.

Contact Information:

• Email: sgkoria@uth.gr
• Phone: 24210-74716
• Office Hours: Tuesday 10:00-12:00 and Wednesday 12:00-14:00
• Office Location: Papastratos Complex, Rosa Imvrioti Building, 1st floor, No 20