Linda J. Graham is a Professor at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and Director of the Centre for Inclusive Education (C4IE). Her research focuses on education policy, disruptive student behavior, and inclusive pedagogies. PhD, Master of Education, and Bachelor of Arts from QUT and Macquarie University Chaired the 2020 Inquiry into Suspension, Exclusion and Expulsion Processes in South Australia Her work explores the intersection of inclusive education , student voice , and teacher-student relationships . She advocates for systemic reform to address overrepresentation of Indigenous and disabled students in exclusionary discipline. Recent publications highlight accessible assessment redesign , equity in education , and student perspectives on discipline . Notable awards include the Spencer Foundation Mentorship Excellence Award (2021) and Macquarie University's Early Career Researcher of the Year (2011). Scientific Awards: Spencer Foundation Mentorship Excellence Award (2021) Macquarie University Early Career Researcher of the Year (2011) Paul Bourke Award (2011) She supervises PhD and professional doctorate students in projects related to language disorders , student voice , and curriculum adjustments . Her leadership extends to the AARE Inclusive Education Special Interest Group and collaborations with institutions like Speech Pathology Australia and the QCAA.
Kathrin Siebold is a Professor at the Institute for German Linguistics of Philipps-Universität Marburg , specializing in German as a Foreign and Second Language (DaF/DaZ) . She leads the German as a Foreign and Second Language Working Group and oversees multiple MA and teacher training programs , including international double degree collaborations with institutions in China, France, and Spain. Contact: +49 6421 28-24892 | Email | Room B213, Marburg Educational Background includes a Dr. phil. (2007) from Universidad de Sevilla for her dissertation on speech acts and verbal politeness, with distinctions like Doctorado Europeo and Premio extraordinario del Doctorado . She earned her Magister Artium in German and Romance Studies from Philipps-Universität Marburg (1998) and Ludwig Maximilians-Universität München (1993–1997). Research Interests center on contrastive and intercultural pragmatics , focusing on speech acts, politeness, discourse markers, and interactional competences in L2. She explores empirical classroom research , video-based observation (VEO), and pedagogical innovations like Virtual Exchange and Tandem Learning . Her projects address multilingualism , language policy , and professional development of DaF/DaZ educators. Scientific Contributions include co-founding the open-access journal ZIAF (Zeitschrift für Interaktionsforschung in DaFZ) and organizing conferences such as the International Conference on German as a Foreign Language and the Marburger FaDaF-Thementage . Her recent 15 publications (2025–2023) analyze classroom interaction, discourse markers, and international educational collaborations. Awards: Premio extraordinario del Doctorado (2007) | Doctorado Europeo (2007) Professional Leadership involves coordinating research projects like DaF im iberoamerikanischen Kontext (DAAD-funded 2025–2027), Stark nach Corona in DaFZ (2023–2024), and Videobasierte Unterrichtsbeobachtung mit VEO (2023–2025). She collaborates with universities in Chile, Argentina, Spain, and Poland through Germanistische Institutspartnerschaften .
Yan Chen is an Assistant Professor at the Virginia Tech College of Engineering , where he leads the PRIME Lab (Programming with Intelligent Machines & Environments) . His work focuses on creating interactive Human-AI systems to enhance real-time data analysis and programming education, particularly addressing barriers in collaborative learning environments. University of Toronto (Postdoctoral Fellow) University of Michigan (Ph.D., Information Science) University of Colorado, Boulder (BS/MS in Applied Math & Electrical & Computer Engineering) His research bridges Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and Computer Science Education , with a focus on real-time data analysis , AI-driven programming assistance , and scalable learning tools . He employs LLMs and human-centered design to simplify complex computational processes, enabling data workers to detect critical patterns efficiently. Recent publications highlight trends in generative AI for education , proactive AI programming support , and collaborative analytics . Key themes include real-time classroom insights , intergenerational smartphone learning , and automated feedback systems . Scientific recognition includes: 🏆 Best Paper at L@S 2024 🏅 Best Paper Honorable Mention at CHI 2023 🏅 Best Paper Honorable Mention at UIST 2022 🏆 Best Short Paper at VL/HCC 2020 He mentors a team of PhD and MS students in projects spanning AI-assisted education, web automation, and collaborative coding tools, with active recruitment for future research directions.
Jill M Castek is Professor of Literacy, Technology & Bi/multilingual Learners & STEM Education in the Department of Teaching, Learning, and Sociocultural Studies at the University of Arizona's College of Education. As Graduate Advisor for the Second Language Acquisition and Teaching (SLAT) program and Co-Director of the Digital Innovation and Learning Lab (DIALL), she bridges research and practice in digital literacy development. Dr. Castek earned her PhD in Education Psychology (Cognition and Instruction) from the University of Connecticut as a Neag fellow in the New Literacies Research Lab, followed by postdoctoral work at UC Berkeley's Lawrence Hall of Science. Her research examines how digital, visual, and audio storytelling fosters literate capacities across print and digital forms in classrooms and community spaces. Her work centers on digital problem solving , critical media literacy , and equity-centered making practices in STEM education. She investigates intersections of disciplinary literacy, new media, and learning for bi/multilingual students, with strong emphasis on community-based applications through libraries and non-profits like Literacy Connects where she serves on the board. Recent publications (2022-2025) reveal growing focus on AI-era teacher education , digital health literacy , and misinformation challenges , while maintaining core commitments to collaborative problem solving and expansive literacies frameworks. Her scholarship consistently addresses K-12 and adult learning contexts through interdisciplinary lenses. Scientific recognition includes: Neag fellowship during doctoral studies As Principal Investigator on NSF and IMLS grants, Dr. Castek advances digital equity through projects like the Making Equity Network (broadening STEM participation for underrepresented groups) and library-focused digital problem-solving initiatives serving economically vulnerable adults. Her leadership in the Technology Enhanced Language Learning (TELL) cluster hire demonstrates institutional impact. Through DIALL, she cultivates innovations connecting digital storytelling with self-expression at individual and community levels, promoting workforce readiness via creative problem-solving approaches. Her board membership with Literacy Connects extends this community-engaged scholarship to Tucson-based literacy initiatives.
Marisa Exter serves as Associate Professor of Learning Design and Technology within Purdue University's Department of Curriculum and Instruction since 2020, following promotion from Assistant Professor (2013-2020). With 15+ years of software design and development experience, she holds dual expertise in Computer Science (BS/MS) and Instructional Systems Technology (PhD). Her educational foundation includes: PhD in Instructional Systems Technology, Indiana University (2011) MS in Computer Science, Illinois Institute of Technology (2003) BS in Computer Science, Elmhurst College (1999) Dr. Exter's research pioneers transdisciplinary educational innovation , focusing on how design processes transform technology-creation fields like Instructional Design, Computing, and Engineering. She investigates formal and non-formal learning experiences to enhance undergraduate education through interdisciplinary programs, while simultaneously examining online graduate program structures that support adult learners' connection to faculty and peers. Her work integrates heutagogical principles for lifelong learning and rigorously documents design successes/failures through scholarly design cases. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals accelerating focus on dispositional development in computing professions , competency-based curriculum models, and transdisciplinary experience design. Her methodological evolution includes increased use of Q methodology and collaborative autoethnography to capture diverse perspectives in educational innovation. As Purdue PI for a $3M multi-institutional computing competencies grant and co-coordinator of AECT's Summer Research Symposium, she drives national curriculum reform. Her mentorship approach cultivates the Exploring Disruptive Education research family group, which investigates interdisciplinary design processes across technology-rich learning environments. Professional service spans Computing Curriculum 2020 Task Force leadership and ACM/AERA membership. The Exploring Disruptive Education research collective she co-leads operates as an interdisciplinary incubator for educational innovation. This team examines how design thinking transforms learning experiences through technology integration, with particular emphasis on creating connections between formal education and industry practices in computing and engineering fields.
Marcella Menegale is an Associate Professor in the Department of Comparative Linguistic and Cultural Studies at Ca' Foscari University of Venice. She is affiliated with the Research Institute for Digital and Cultural Heritage. Her teaching responsibilities include courses on instructional design for language education, theories of language education, and multilingualism, across various degree programs such as Master’s in Languages and Civilizations, and Language Sciences. Her research focuses on multilingual education frameworks (CLIL, intercomprehension), learner autonomy, digital tools in language learning, and well-being in educational contexts. She has contributed to EU-funded projects like DigLit (combating social inequalities via digital tools) and EVAL-IC (evaluating intercomprehension skills). She has also served as an expert evaluator for the European Commission’s Horizon 2020 and ANVUR’s research evaluations. Key research areas include CLIL methodology, learner autonomy development, and the integration of technology in language pedagogy. She collaborates with international teams on projects like Transition from Secondary School CLIL to University EMI (funded by the British Council). Her work bridges theory and practice, addressing challenges in second-language teaching and digital-age curricula.
Torsten Steinhoff is a Professor of Didactics of the German Language at the Department of Germanic Studies, University of Siegen, Faculty of Arts and Humanities. His research and teaching focus on theoretical, methodological, and empirical aspects of language acquisition and instruction from elementary to university levels. His primary research interests include: Writing didactics (Schreibdidaktik) Vocabulary didactics (Wortschatzdidaktik) Language-specific and disciplinary learning (Sprache im Fach) Digital communication and AI in education Development of complex learning arrangements (Lernarrangements) Steinhoff investigates how digital tools like ChatGPT can be integrated into writing instruction, promoting argumentative writing through structured learning tasks. His recent work (2023–2025) analyzes human-AI collaboration in writing, proposing models such as GPT as Ghost, Partner, or Tutor. He emphasizes a post-digital didactic approach, balancing traditional literacy with digital competencies. His publications reflect a strong trend in digital transformation of writing, multilingual education, and empirical interventions in secondary classrooms. He leads research projects funded by BMBF and MKW NRW, including the "AI Writing Arrangements" project tested in 8th-grade classes. Scientific contributions and collaborations: Co-editor of research handbooks on empirical writing didactics Collaborator with scholars like Nicole Marx, Katrin Lehnen, and Joachim Grabowski Active contributor to journals such as Didaktik Deutsch , BiSS-Journal , and Waxmann publications Hosts a research team at lernarrangements.de He advises on academic language development, text procedures, and vocabulary transfer across modalities and subjects. His lab develops open educational resources (OER) for digital writing and communication, contributing to platforms like Twillo.
Professor Michelle Ellefson is a Professor of Cognitive Science at the University of Cambridge's Faculty of Education, where she serves as Director of CAM-DTP and as Undergraduate Tutor for Gonville and Caius College. She convenes the INSTRUCT Research Group (Implementing New Student Thinking Resources Using Cognitive Theory) and is affiliated with multiple interdisciplinary initiatives including Cambridge Neuroscience, Cambridge Big Data, and Cambridge Language Sciences. Her educational background includes a PhD and MA in Brain and Cognitive Sciences from Southern Illinois University and a BA in Psychology, summa cum laude, from the University of Minnesota. She is a member of several professional organizations including the Psychonomic Society, Cognitive Science Society, Women in Cognitive Science, and SPARK Society. Professor Ellefson's research integrates cognition, neuroscience, child development, and education into a multi-disciplinary program aimed at improving math and science education. Her work focuses on executive functions in school achievement, children's causal reasoning about scientific phenomena, and applying cognitive principles like simplicity and desirable difficulties to classroom learning. Her research spans laboratory-based studies paired with classroom applications to understand cognitive development mechanisms and improve educational practice. Her recent publications reveal strong trends in executive function research across cultural contexts, particularly examining East-West contrasts and the relationship between executive functions and academic achievement. Her work increasingly focuses on developing and validating assessment tools like the Zoo Task for metacognitive problem-solving, and she is committed to open science practices including registered reports and pre-registration of studies. Psychonomic Society Cognitive Science Society (CogSci) Women in Cognitive Science (WiCS) SPARK Society Professor Ellefson actively supervises PhD students through the Psychology, Education & Learning Studies program and teaches cognitive psychology and educational neuroscience in the PGCE program. She emphasizes quantitative methods and R programming for data analysis, requiring doctoral students to develop strong statistical skills. Her lab follows Cambridge's inquiry-based learning model and maintains a commitment to diversity and inclusion, welcoming researchers from varied socioeconomic, national, and cultural backgrounds. The INSTRUCT Lab also focuses on open science practices, sharing data and materials through OSF and publishing preprints in Psych-Archive.
Akshay Narayan is a Senior Lecturer (Educator Track) at the School of Computing, National University of Singapore (NUS), where he teaches senior undergraduate and graduate-level courses in AI Planning and Decision Making, as well as introductory and intermediate-level Software Engineering courses. Education: Ph.D. in Computer Science from National University of Singapore (completed in 2020) M.Tech. in Information Technology from International Institute of Information Technology Bangalore, India B.E. in Computer Science & Engineering from Visveswaraya Technological University, India Research Interests: Dr. Narayan's research spans multiple domains within computer science with a primary focus on artificial intelligence and its applications. His current research centers on transfer learning in reinforcement learning, multi-agent decision making, and AI planning. He has also made significant contributions to cloud computing research, particularly in areas such as smart metering, chargeback systems, power-aware cloud metering, and workload analysis for virtual machine sizing. His work bridges theoretical foundations with practical applications, addressing real-world challenges in computing systems. He has recently expanded his research to include technology in education, exploring how AI can be integrated into teaching and learning processes. Publication Trends: Dr. Narayan's publication record demonstrates a clear evolution from foundational work in cloud computing to more recent explorations in reinforcement learning and AI education. His early work focused on practical applications in cloud systems, including smart metering and QoS monitoring. More recently, his research has shifted toward AI planning, decision making, and the educational applications of AI. This progression shows his ability to adapt to emerging fields while maintaining a strong foundation in systems research. Awards and Recognition: Teaching and Mentoring: Dr. Narayan teaches a variety of courses at NUS including CS2113 Software Engineering & Object-Oriented Programming, CS3219 Software Engineering Principles and Patterns, CS3268 Responsible AI: From Algorithms to Impact, and IT5100F Industry Readiness: Data Analytics and AI in Practice. He has also taught CS4246/CS5446 AI Planning and Decision Making. His teaching approach integrates his research expertise with practical applications, providing students with both theoretical foundations and hands-on experience. He has taught these courses across multiple academic years from AY-2013/14 through AY-2020/21. Research Groups and Collaborations: Dr. Narayan has collaborated with researchers across multiple institutions, including work with Prof. Tze Yun Leong at NUS (his PhD advisor), Shrisha Rao, Zhuoru Li, and others. His research has often involved interdisciplinary collaborations that bridge theoretical computer science with practical system implementations.
David Lefevre is a Professor of Practice at the Department of Management and Entrepreneurship, Imperial College Business School. His research focuses on AI applications in education, digital innovation in higher education, and tech-transfer. He co-founded the Edtech Lab in 2004, which pioneered Imperial’s online courses and Global Online MBA. The Lab has won awards including a Gold at IMS Learning Impact (2010) and Silver at QS Reimagine (2018). He also co-founded educational tech companies Epigeum (now part of Oxford University Press) and Insendi (now Study Group). He is Special Advisor on Digital Innovation at Study Group and a British Council Trustee, focusing on digital transformation. Lefevre’s work emphasizes strategic adoption of AI, online education quality, and bridging cultural barriers in learning. Education & Background: While formal education details are not provided, his career reflects deep expertise in education technology and entrepreneurship. His roles include: Professor of Practice, Imperial College Business School Co-founder & former leader of the Edtech Lab Co-founder of Epigeum and Insendi Expert in Residence, Imperial Enterprise Lab Research Interests: Lefevre’s work spans AI in education, online learning infrastructure, and cross-cultural e-learning. He advocates for data-driven strategies to improve online course design and learner engagement. His recent focus includes AI-driven feedback systems and holographic teaching methods. Key Achievements: Launched Imperial’s first online MBA program in 2015 Developed an LMS alternative using middleware Promoted adaptive learning environments for diverse learners Awards & Recognition: Gold award at IMS Learning Impact awards 2010 Silver award for Business Education at QS Reimagine Education 2018 Advisory & Grants: Advises Study Group and the British Council on digital innovation. His ventures have secured significant investments, though specific grant details are not disclosed. Labs & Collaborations: Leads the Edtech Lab and collaborates with Imperial Enterprise Lab. Active in global education networks such as QS Reimagine and the British Council.
Gigi Luk is Professor and Program Director for M.Ed. Concentrations in Educational Psychology and Human Development within the Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology at McGill University's Faculty of Education. Her research program investigates the cognitive consequences of bilingualism across the lifespan, bridging scientific understanding with practical educational applications to cultivate inclusive environments for linguistically diverse learners. Her educational background includes: Ph.D. in Psychology (Developmental and Cognitive Processes) from York University M.A. in Psychology (Developmental and Cognitive Processes) from York University Specialized Honors B.A. in Psychology from York University Dr. Luk's research centers on bilingualism's cognitive and neural mechanisms, with three interconnected thrusts: (1) characterizing bilingualism beyond English proficiency in communities, (2) examining cognitive skills supporting language/literacy outcomes, and (3) establishing neural correlates of learning in diverse language learners. Her work integrates cognitive neuroscience with educational practice to address real-world challenges in multilingual classrooms, emphasizing culturally responsive pedagogy that respects linguistic diversity. This dual focus on basic science and practical implementation defines her contributions to understanding how bilingual experiences shape cognitive development and educational equity. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications (2022-2024) reveals consistent interdisciplinary investigation of bilingualism through cognitive, neural, and sociocultural lenses. Her work spans educational psychology, cognitive neuroscience, and sociolinguistics, with growing emphasis on neural correlates of language processing, methodological rigor in bilingual assessment, and equity implications of bilingual research. Key trends include examination of multilingual children's cognitive development, critical reframing of the "bilingual advantage" discourse, and innovative approaches like music-based literacy interventions. Scientific recognition includes: National Academy of Education/Spencer Postdoctoral Fellowship (2013-2014) Dr. Luk actively supervises graduate students (accepting new students for 2025-2026) and secures competitive research funding, currently supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and Fonds de recherche Société et culture (FRQSC). Her grant portfolio demonstrates sustained commitment to advancing understanding of bilingual cognition and its educational applications through rigorous empirical work. She directs the Bilingualism.Experience.Education Lab, which functions as an interdisciplinary hub for investigating how language experiences shape cognitive development and educational outcomes. The lab employs diverse methodologies including neuroimaging, behavioral experiments, and classroom-based research to address questions about bilingualism's cognitive effects and practical implications for educators.
Aysegul Liman-Kaban serves as an Assistant Professor in ICT/Digital Learning STEM Education at Maynooth University. Her work focuses on integrating immersive technologies like augmented reality, gamification, and AI into educational practices. She actively supervises PhD students and leads international research projects such as MIXAP-EU and From AI Anxiety to Empowerment. Education: Not explicitly stated in provided text Her research interests span: Immersive learning technologies (AR/XR, digital escape games) AI in education and generative AI applications Teacher digital competencies and professional development Flipped learning and multimedia pedagogy Ethical challenges in AI research Blended learning practices Recent publications demonstrate a focus on gamification, mixed reality, and AI applications in education, with methodological expertise in structural equation modeling, mixed methods research, and task-based learning analysis. She contributes to journals like Smart Learning Environments and Higher Education Quarterly . Key activities include: Organizing international conferences on STEAM education Leading EU-funded research on immersive learning tools Developing open-source educational technologies Pioneering generative AI integration frameworks
Darko Etinger is an Associate Professor and currently serves as the Dean of the Faculty of Informatics at Juraj Dobrila University of Pula in Croatia. His academic career spans over two decades with significant contributions to the fields of information systems, educational technology, and artificial intelligence. He teaches undergraduate courses including Artificial Intelligence, Business Information Systems, Business Process Management, ICT Fundamentals, Information Systems, Introduction to Artificial Intelligence, and Multimedia Systems. At the graduate level, he teaches Development of IT Solutions, IT Management, Modelling and Simulation, and Project Management. He also supervises doctoral research in Management of Information Technologies in Education. Dr. Etinger's research interests span several key areas in computer science and education technology. He has made significant contributions to understanding how information and communication technologies can support children with special educational needs, as evidenced by his 2024 and 2025 books on the topic. His work also focuses on business process management, educational data mining, and the application of artificial intelligence in educational contexts. His 2024 book 'Introduction to R and RStudio' demonstrates his commitment to data science education. Analysis of his recent publications shows a strong focus on practical applications of technology in education and business. His work spans educational robotics, learning management systems analysis, business process modeling, and the application of large language models in healthcare. He has a particular interest in how technology can be made accessible and beneficial for diverse learner populations, including those with special needs. His research often takes a human-centered approach, examining not just the technology itself but how it's adopted and used by end users. His 2025 bibliometric analysis of metaverse security demonstrates his ability to tackle emerging technological challenges. Associate Professor at Faculty of Informatics, Juraj Dobrila University of Pula Current Dean of Faculty of Informatics Author of multiple publications on educational technology and information systems Supervisor for numerous graduate theses on educational technology topics Active participant in EDIH Adria project as evidenced by 2025 publications Researcher in educational robotics implementation in Croatian schools Dr. Etinger has advised numerous students completing their theses, with a focus on educational technology applications. His research has been published in various international conferences and journals including IEEE Engineering Management Review, Procedia Computer Science, and System Dynamics Review. His current research appears to be heavily focused on the EDIH Adria project, which is a European Digital Innovation Hub initiative focusing on technology transfer and business innovation. He maintains an active research program with publications spanning from 2003 to the present, demonstrating sustained scholarly contribution to his fields of expertise.
Dr. Jayesh Pillai is an Associate Professor at the IDC School of Design, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, specializing in immersive media design, virtual reality, and augmented reality technologies. His work bridges the gap between design, technology, and storytelling, with a focus on creating meaningful user experiences in virtual environments. His research interests include: Immersive Media Design Virtual Reality & Augmented Reality Visual & Interactive Storytelling Interaction Design Dr. Pillai teaches courses in Design for Virtual Reality, Immersive Media Design, Interaction Design, and Trends in Interactive Technologies at the MDes level, as well as Digital Media Technologies at the BDes level. He has developed educational content through D'Source, including "Virtual Reality: Introduction." His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on VR narrative techniques, AR educational applications, and social interactions in virtual spaces. His work explores audio-visual cues in 6DoF VR, interactive storytelling through digital game design, and the application of AR in mathematics education and vocational training. Dr. Pillai's research consistently examines how immersive technologies can enhance user experience, learning, and social connection. Dr. Pillai is the creator of "Cinévoqué," a form of responsive VR Cinema where storylines are driven by the viewer's point of interest, and has directed VR films including "Dragonfly" (2018) and "Manhole" (2022), which has been officially selected at multiple international film festivals. He leads the IMXD Lab at IIT Bombay, where his team conducts cutting-edge research in immersive media and interaction design. His work has been presented at major conferences including ACM SIGGRAPH, IEEE VR, and INTERACT.
Dr. Dustin Crowther is an Associate Professor in the Department of Second Language Studies at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. He holds a PhD from Michigan State University and currently serves as Director of the Center for Academic Spoken English (CASE), an initiative supporting non-native English speakers in academic oral communication. His primary research focuses on second language speech comprehensibility, global Englishes pedagogy, and listener perception dynamics. Dr. Crowther has held editorial roles for TESOL Quarterly (2019-2024) and will become Editor of the Journal of Second Language Pronunciation in 2025. Dr. Crowther's expertise includes L2 pronunciation instruction, program development in SLA, and methodological practices in second language research. He co-authored Shaping Learners' Pronunciation: Teaching the Connected Speech of North American English (2022) and co-edited Investigating World Englishes: Research Methodology and Practical Applications (2019). His research appears in top-tier journals like Applied Linguistics , Language Learning , and TESOL Quarterly . Education: PhD, Michigan State University Professional Roles: Editor ( Journal of Second Language Pronunciation ), Director (CASE), Affiliate Faculty in Linguistics His work bridges SLA research with pedagogical applications, emphasizing global Englishes' role in multilingual academic contexts. Dr. Crowther collaborates with international scholars through the CASE initiative and has developed innovative assessment methodologies for L2 speaking tasks.
