Uğur Başarmak is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Education , Kırşehir Ahi Evran Üniversitesi , specializing in Computer and Educational Technologies Education . With over 20 years of experience, his research focuses on educational material development , technology integration , and digital citizenship . PhD (2009-2013) and MSc (2008) in Computer and Educational Technologies Education from Gazi University Master's in Electronics and Computer Education (2002-2005) and B.Sc. in Electronics and Computer Education (1992-1996) from Marmara University His research explores computational thinking , coding education , and technology barriers in education. Recent work includes Metaverse integration in learning environments and digital citizenship curricula . Articles emphasize teacher self-efficacy , project-based learning , and STEM education . Key projects include STEMkar Robotlar (2018-2019) and international collaborations like HORIZON-MSCA (2024). He has supervised 4 master’s theses and served as a principal investigator in 15+ research projects since 2011.
Brygg Ullmer is a Professor at Clemson University's School of Computing and Chair of the Human-Centered Computing Division. He leads the Tangible Visualization group, focusing on Tangible User Interfaces (TUIs) Computational Genomics Interactive Computational STEAM Rapid Physical/Electronic Prototyping Computationally-Mediated Art and Design His work bridges physical and digital domains, with applications in K-12 education, high-performance computing, and culturally-rooted design. Research trends from his 15 most recent articles show a focus on Generative AI for cyberphysical systems Shape-changing interfaces Token+Constraint interaction models Genomics data visualization Hybrid tangible-gestural interfaces Multi-display collaboration These span both theoretical and applied work in computer science, biology, and design. Ullmer has held significant roles including Postdoctoral work at Zuse Institute Berlin Associate Professor at Louisiana State University (CCT & Computer Science) Visiting Lecturer at Hong Kong Polytechnic University Contributions to IBM Systems Journal and special editions of Springer's Personal and Ubiquitous Computing He has also co-edited journal special issues and served on conference committees. His scientific contributions include co-invented U.S. patents (6164541, 6263507, 6259441) related to Invisible hyperlinking Audiovisual data browsing Digital video time-shifting These patents reflect early innovations in tangible interface technology that have influenced modern interactive systems.
Michael Brown is a Lecturer in Childcare affiliated with the University of Derby's Provost Learning and Teaching research institute. His work focuses on creativity development in education, interdisciplinary artistic processes, and the intersection of technology with music and human experience. He has contributed to over 20 publications since 2012, exploring topics ranging from creative pedagogy in the Fourth Industrial Revolution to innovative soundscapes using tissue-conducted audio interfaces. His research emphasizes the application of artistic methodologies to project management and education, with notable projects including 'Feel it in my bones' (2017) and 'The business of invention' (2013). Brown collaborates extensively with institutions like the West East Institute and KIE Conference Publications, focusing on creativity dynamics across domains. Despite no listed awards, his work has been cited in multiple academic platforms. His research outputs demonstrate a consistent exploration of creative constraints, multimodal composition, and technology-enhanced learning environments, with over 2,000 total views across platforms.
Mel McKendrick is an active Associate Professor in Psychology at Heriot-Watt University's School of Social Sciences. As a Chartered Psychologist (Experimental), they serve as the Founding Director of SPECTRA Labs and Co-Lead for the Mental Illness and Neurological Disorders (MIND) Digital Health theme within the Global Research Institute for Health and Care Technologies. They are also the Founding CEO of Optomize Ltd, which focuses on data-driven approaches to capture and analyze performance in medical training to reduce learning curves. Research interests center on using simulated environments, technology, and feedback to reduce anxiety and improve performance. Specializing in social cognition, face processing, and attention, they are developing the MIND Hub as a digital mental health research and data services center. Additional expertise includes performance training and assessment through the Medical Education Lab (MEL), which integrates virtual, augmented, and mixed realities; haptics; eye-tracking; 3D object recognition; and robotics for medical training applications. Recent publications demonstrate strong focus on hologram-guided medical procedures, ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia training, and digital mental health interventions. Their work shows consistent growth in research output from 2008 through 2025, with significant contributions in medical simulation technologies and cognitive aspects of medical training. 1st prize award from the Association of Anaesthesia 2025 Innovation in Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Award EPSRC-funded Research Project 'Immersive Augmented Reality (AR) experience design to improve mental health and depression' (2023, £84,074) Winning Team 2022 European Crucible Project Pitching Competition for 'MAVKA: Co-creative gamified storytelling for trauma' Winning Team Product Forge Hackathon Mel McKendrick actively supervises PhD students and has secured funding from EU Horizon, EPSRC, and NHS collaborations. Their work spans medical education technologies, digital mental health applications, and cognitive aspects of medical performance. They manage specialized equipment including eye-tracking systems (Pupil Core add on for HTC Vive Pro and Pupil Neon) and have organized numerous workshops including the Mental Health & Neurodivergent Digital Health workshop and Patient Focussed Medical Education Workshop in 2024.
Prof. Mirco Becker is a Professor at the Leibniz University Hannover, holding roles as Executive Director of the Institute for Design and Presentation and leading the Department of Digital Methods in Architecture within the Faculty of Architecture and Landscape Sciences. His expertise focuses on computational aesthetics, digital fabrication, and robotic systems in architectural design. He manages the 3D printing facilities for the faculty and serves as the BAföG representative for Architecture students. His research integrates artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and advanced materials to explore innovative architectural solutions. Becker’s research interests emphasize computational methods for evaluating architectural aesthetics, immersive design environments, and modular robotic construction systems. His work bridges theoretical frameworks with practical applications, such as using machine learning to quantify aesthetic preferences and developing materials like felt-concrete composites. He has contributed to projects like 'VRoxel' (an immersive design tool) and 'Project DisCo' (VR-based modular block choreography). His publications highlight themes such as algorithmic aesthetics, robotic fabrication, and sustainable materials, reflecting a commitment to advancing digital tools in architecture. He actively participates in academic leadership roles, overseeing institutional facilities and student support systems.
H. Chad Lane is a Professor of Educational Psychology and Associate Department Chair in the College of Education at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. His research focuses on developing AI-driven educational technologies that blend entertainment and learning, particularly using platforms like Minecraft. He has led projects such as the NSF-funded AI Institute for Inclusive Intelligent Technologies for Education (INVITE) and co-edited key volumes in AI in education. His work emphasizes fostering STEM interest through immersive environments and pedagogical agents. Education: While specific academic credentials aren't listed, his extensive publications and leadership roles indicate advanced degrees in educational technology, AI, or related fields. Research Interests: Lane's lab explores AI applications in education, game-based learning, and the intersection of cognitive/affective variables in learning. Notable projects include MineObserver (AI framework for analyzing student descriptions in Minecraft) and virtual museum guides to promote STEM engagement. His work integrates techniques from artificial intelligence, entertainment design, and cognitive science. Grants & Leadership: Principal investigator on multiple grants, including the $20M AI Institute for Education. Serves as editor for AI in Education journals and conference proceedings. Advises students in educational psychology, computer science, and data science. Labs/Teams: Directs projects at the intersection of AI and education, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams across computing, psychology, and education departments. Hosts courses like 'AI Applications in Education' and 'Educational Game Research.'
Sophie Pigeron serves as a Lecturer in the Art History and Fine Arts department at the American University of Paris (AUP), where she teaches foundational courses in visual arts techniques and practices. Educational Background: DEA in Aesthetics and Art Sciences (1996), University Paris VIII Master's Degree in Visual Arts (1995), University Paris VIII Bachelor's Degree in Visual Arts (1994), University Paris VIII DEUG in Visual Arts and Audiovisual (1992), University Paul Valéry, Montpellier Ecole Nationale des Beaux Arts de Dijon (1989) Specializing in practical art instruction, Pigeron focuses on developing students' technical skills in drawing and painting while fostering creative expression through structured sketchbook practices. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes foundational techniques as essential building blocks for artistic development, with particular attention to observational drawing and traditional painting methods. The curriculum she delivers bridges theoretical understanding of visual arts with hands-on studio practice, creating an immersive learning environment for students exploring fine arts disciplines. Pigeron maintains an active teaching schedule with courses including Introduction to Drawing, Painting I, and Creative Sketchbook techniques, with classes scheduled through Fall 2025 semester. Her pedagogical approach appears rooted in the French academic tradition of art education while adapting to the international context of AUP's student body.
Kazimierz Choroś is a Professor at the Department of Applied Informatics , Faculty of Information and Communication Technology , Wrocław University of Science and Technology. He held leadership roles as Deputy Director of the Institute of Informatics (2008-2014) and Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Computer Science and Management (2016-2020). Research interests: digital image/video processing, content-based video indexing, computer animations, multimedia systems, web systems analysis, and information systems design. Organizer and Chair of the International Conference on Multimedia & Network Information Systems (MISSI 2022) Chair of Special Session WebSys 2020 at ICCCI 2020 Other activities: Since 1993, member and former President (1993-2002) of the SAGE Association (Polish Graduates of French Grandes Ecoles). Since 1982, member of the Polish Numismatic Society, author of dozens of numismatic publications, and Editor-in-Chief of Wrocławskie Zapiski Numizmatyczne (2003-present). Contact: Email: kazimierz.choros@pwr.edu.pl Phone: +48-71.320.3799 Office: Building D2, Room 201/1 Address: Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wyb. Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370 Wrocław, Poland
Mathias Wien is a Professor and Head of the Chair of Image Generation and Image Processing at RWTH Aachen University. He specializes in video and image communication, with a focus on compression standards, 3D video technology, and perceptual quality metrics. His work spans medical imaging applications, adaptive coding techniques, and algorithm optimization for real-time video processing. Research interests include video coding algorithms, immersive media standards (e.g., VVC), point cloud quality assessment, and efficient template matching methods for reference picture padding. He actively contributes to MPEG and IEEE initiatives, co-authoring standards and reviewing emerging technologies. Recent publications (2021–2025) emphasize advancements in template-based video coding, medical image segmentation using deep learning, and viewer training protocols for visual assessment. He leads a research team addressing challenges in scalable compression, dynamic mesh coding, and 3D LiDAR odometry. His team collaborates with institutions like the RWTH Aachen University Medical Department and industry partners, focusing on clinical applications of imaging technology.
Dr. Dimitris Chatzopoulos is an Assistant Professor (Ad Astra Fellow) at the School of Computer Science, University College Dublin. He holds a PhD from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and academic qualifications in Computer Engineering from the University of Thessaly, Greece. His research focuses on privacy-preserving systems, AI-driven decentralized applications, mobile computing, blockchain technology, and combating fake news. Education: PhD in Computer Science and Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (2013–2018) MSc in Computer Engineering and Communications, University of Thessaly, Greece Professional Diploma in University Teaching & Learning, University College Dublin Research Interests: Mobile and distributed systems Decentralized AI and blockchain applications Privacy-enhancing technologies Extended reality (XR) interfaces Metaverse infrastructure Awards & Recognition: Heidelberg Laureate Forum Participant (2017) Grants & Projects: "AI-enabled decentralized sensing for mobile and distributed systems" (2023–2026) "DIGITISE: Cross-sector services for societal empowerment" (2024–2027) Ad Astra Fellowship (2020–2027) Teaching & Supervision: Module coordinator for courses such as Blockchain & Decentralisation, Cloud Computing, and Python OOP PhD thesis supervisor
Ass.-Prof. Dr. Pascal Knierim is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Computer Science, University of Innsbruck. He leads the Interactive Graphics and Simulation Group , focusing on Extended Reality (XR), Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), and privacy in digital environments. His research explores the societal impact of emerging technologies, including thermal imaging, drones, and AI integration with XR. Key areas of investigation include user perception in content blocking (e.g., 'Ad-Blocked Reality'), social behavior in VR (e.g., 'Navigating the Virtual Gaze'), and ethical design of mixed reality systems. His work bridges theoretical research with practical applications, such as privacy-aware smart home interfaces ('PriKey') and biometric identification via thermal imaging ('HotFoot'). Knierim’s publications often highlight trends in XR’s ethical implications, such as dark patterns in MR, and the intersection of AI with immersive technologies. His lab emphasizes collaboration, evidenced by contributions to frameworks like 'Lenssembly' for AR-based assembly instructions. His office hours are Monday to Friday, 09:00–13:00, and he is located at ICT 3N08, Technikerstraße 21a, Innsbruck.
Anamika Devi is a Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood Education at Swinburne University of Technology, within the School of Social Sciences, Media, Film and Education. She holds a PhD from Monash University and brings over 13 years of experience in research, teaching, and program leadership in early childhood education. Previously, she served as Lecturer and Program Director of the Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood at RMIT University, where she led curriculum redesign, re-accreditation, and course mapping. Doctor of Philosophy, Monash University, Australia Anamika's research is deeply rooted in cultural-historical theory, focusing on imaginative play, pedagogical positioning, STEM integration, virtual reality in teacher training, and inclusive education. She explores how children develop scientific and everyday concepts through play, and how educators can effectively support this process across diverse cultural contexts. Her work emphasizes play-based learning, digital technologies in education, and teacher preparation. Her recent publications reveal a strong trend toward innovative pedagogies, particularly the use of virtual reality to prepare pre-service teachers and the integration of STEM/STEAM in early childhood through culturally valued play. She frequently collaborates with researchers across institutions in Australia and internationally, including Charles Sturt University, RMIT, and Wenzhou-Kean University, China. Her scientific recognition includes the Australian Postgraduate Award (APA) from Monash University in 2013. She is an active member of professional organizations such as the Early Childhood Australia (ECA), Australian Association for Research in Education (AARE), European Early Childhood Education Research Association (EECERA), and others. Anamika supervises higher degree research students, including a current PhD candidate investigating play-based learning in makerspace design. She has contributed to curriculum development, re-accreditation processes, and interdisciplinary team leadership involving academic, administrative, and placement teams. She has also been involved in funded and non-funded research projects on STEM in early childhood education. She maintains an active public engagement profile, contributing media articles on home-schooling, daily routines, and virtual learning during the pandemic, reflecting her commitment to bridging research and practice.
Marc Schubhan is a doctoral researcher at the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI) , associated with the Ubiquitous Media Technology Lab (UMTL) on the Saarland Informatics Campus . He contributes to research in gamification, ambient interfaces, and interactive systems. Research Interests: Gamification, Interactive Systems, Prototyping, Human-Computer Interaction, Ubiquitous Computing, User Experience Teaching: Supervised bachelor's and master's theses on gamification, sound feedback, and interactive design; involved in lectures like "Grundlagen der Medieninformatik". Projects: Participated in initiatives such as MarKIeR and Mittelstand-Digital Zentrum Handel, focusing on gamification, ambient interfaces, and VR applications. Publications: Co-author on 14+ papers in CHI, CHI Play, MUM, and MindTrek, addressing topics like gamified hygiene systems, ambient plant-based interfaces, and multi-modal VR interactions. Contact: Email: Marc.Schubhan@dfki.de
Hakan Tuzun is a Professor in the Department of Computer Education and Instructional Technology at Hacettepe University in Ankara, Turkey. His research focuses on designing technology-enhanced learning environments with emphasis on cultural considerations. His primary affiliations include Hacettepe University where he teaches courses such as BTE202, BTÖ716, and BCO623 (Computer Game Design Projects). Dr. Tuzun's research examines innovative applications of educational technologies including: Game-based learning frameworks and hyper-casual game design Virtual reality and 3D multi-user environments for spatial learning Programming education using both block-based and text-based modalities Eye-tracking analysis of e-learning platform usability Problem-based instructional design in immersive environments His work consistently explores how technological implementations affect cognitive load, motivation, and learning outcomes across educational contexts. His publications demonstrate strong research trends in educational technology with recent emphasis on: Virtual/augmented reality implementations for spatial and conceptual learning Programming education methodologies and cognitive impacts Usability engineering of digital learning platforms Gamification strategies across formal and informal learning contexts Design frameworks for collaborative virtual environments Methodologically, his work frequently employs eye-tracking, cognitive load measurement, and authentic task analysis. No major scientific awards are documented in the provided materials. Dr. Tuzun maintains active research collaborations as evidenced by multi-author publications and develops virtual environments for educational applications such as library orientation and university departmental training. His work continues to explore emerging technologies like low-cost VR HMDs and adaptive game design frameworks.
Jonathan Brown is an Assistant Professor of Practice in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Ohio State University, joining full-time in 2020. He serves as the MSE ABET Coordinator and focuses on computational materials science and undergraduate curriculum innovation. B.S. in Applied Mathematics (minor in Physics), New Mexico Tech M.S. in Applied Mathematics with Industrial Math specialization, New Mexico Tech Ph.D. in Materials Engineering (minor in Physics), New Mexico Tech His research interests span computational modeling of polymeric materials, including: Molecular dynamics simulations of polymer glasses Fluids density functional theory for ion-doped copolymers Self-consistent field theory of microphase-separated polymers Virtual reality applications in engineering education Publication trends show a dual focus on advanced materials modeling (block copolymers, ionomers, biofilms) and educational technology innovations in VR-based instruction. Junior Investigator Award , 2013 MRS Fall Meeting Graduate Research Fellowship , Sandia National Laboratory (2008-2011) Ashman Award , New Mexico Tech (2010) Tech Scholar Award , New Mexico Tech (2006) As an advisor, he has guided undergraduate researchers in polymer modeling and VR educational tools. He also contributes to outreach through: COSI public demonstrations Project GUTS programming workshops New Mexico Supercomputing Challenge mentorship He serves on the Climate and Inclusivity Committee and develops courses on computational materials science while maintaining active research collaborations in polymer systems and biomedical modeling.
