Featured Speakers
Prof. Ibrahim Al-Qaryouti
Prof. Ibrahim Al-Qaryouti is a university professor with a Ph.D. in Early Education Department, at the College of Education, Sultan Qaboos University, Oman. His research interests are diverse, encompassing inclusive education, the education of children with disabilities, early intervention, literacy.
Al-Qaryouti has made significant contributions to the academic and practical aspects of his field. He has participated in 18 research projects, authored 72 articles, and published 17 books, most of which focus on children with disabilities. His work has played a pivotal role in improving the lives of children with special needs.
He is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the American Psychological Association (APA), the International Society for Early Intervention.
Dr. Al-Qaryouti has conducted 43 training workshops for teachers and parents of children with disabilities across countries such as Jordan, Oman, Qatar, Syria, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Italy. Additionally, he serves as an educational consultant for various institutions.
He has supervised 12 master’s and doctoral theses and has been a peer reviewer for the Khalifa Educational Award at its headquarters in Abu Dhabi, UAE, from 2012 to 2023.
Mr. Kabanda Credo Denyse
Mr. Kabanda Credo Denys is a passionate educator with a Diploma (A1) in Entrepreneurship with Education and is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Education, specializing in Economics and Entrepreneurship at East African Christian College. He is committed to building a strong teaching career and contributing meaningful solutions to the education sector. As a beginner researcher, Kabanda is eager to learn and grow, seeking mentorship to develop the skills and knowledge needed to conduct impactful research. Outside the classroom, he enjoys playing football with his children, blending his love for family and sports.
Past Speakers
Dr. Brigita Pantelejeva
Head of Studies at St Ignatius of Loyola College / senior lecturer at Kaunas University of Technology
Topic: GenAI in higher education: navigating the new reality
Dr Brigita Pantelejeva is a Head of Studies at St. Ignatius of Loyola College in Kaunas, Lithuania. She has been a lecturer in communication and academic writing at Lithuanian and foreign universities for over 20 years, as well as founder of a unique language school for adults. Mostly aiming to help students and adults to develop their communication skills in different languages. PhD in linguistics with recent focus on artificial intelligence tools in communication and academic writing.
Dr. Maureen Klos
Dr Maureen Klos is an experienced academic researcher with a rich background in education and English and French language support in Zimbabwe and South Africa. Holding a BA, STD, BEd Hons (cum laude), MEd (cum laude), and DEd, she has been actively involved in research and teaching for over four decades, Dr. Klos has presented at international and local conferences and collaborated on sociolinguistics and academic literacy projects. Her recent work focuses on scaffolding autonomous language learning. She enjoys painting and spending time with her border collies (95 words).
Dr. Nduduzo C Ndebele
Dr. Nduduzo C Ndebele is a senior lecturer and researcher at the Department of Public Governance, University of KwaZulu Natal. He holds a PhD in Public Policy. Furthermore, he teaches and supervises postgraduate students and has recently edited a book titled: Digital Transformation in Public Sector Human Resource Management. His areas of research interest are: public policy in health and education; Digital transformation in Public Sector Human Resource Management and Local Government. His recent publications are: ‘ Funding Open Educational Resources in Higher Education: A South African Public Policy Perspective’ in Social Sciences Journal (2023 ‘Data Marginalization in South Africa: A Quest For Inclusive Digital Participation’ in Social Sciences and Education Research Review Journal (2024).
Dr. Luis J. Benítez Barajas
Dr. Luis J. Benítez Barajas is a PhD and professor at the National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico. Specialized in philosophy from Sorbonne University, in written language from Munich University and in structural mechanics from the Carlos III University of Madrid. Member of the American Association of Physics Teachers. His research lines move between philosophy of science, engineering and educational Physics.
Prof. Ann Lourens
Prof. Ann Lourens is an Associate Professor at Nelson Mandela University and Project Leader for Women in Engineering Leadership Association (WELA) in Gqeberha, South Africa. Prior to a career in academia Ann worked in various manufacturing industries and has a keen research interest in the development and retention of students, particularly women engineering students.
As an academic, she has lectured a variety of modules on the under and post graduate Operations Management, Industrial Engineering and MBA programmes. As Head of Department of the Industrial Engineering team at Nelson Mandela University, Prof Lourens maintains close links with industry and several short learning programmes have been designed to develop employees from various industries in and around the Eastern Cape.
Dr. Sekanse Ntsala
Dr. Sekanse Ntsala is a lecturer in English education, in the department of language education, at the University of the Free State, South Africa. He holds a PhD in English education. He held positions as discipline co-ordinator and program director in the faculty of education, and he is a National Research Foundation grant holder, with his project focused on the integration of Information Communication Technology in English and Sesotho classrooms. His other interests are educational policy and language, theory and language education, as well as language across the curriculum.
Assoc. Prof. Nihal Yurtseven
Assoc. Prof. Nihal Yurtseven holds a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction. She teaches and researches in the areas of curriculum development, instructional design, teaching, and learning. She has taken part in several projects about teachers’ professional development, quality education, sustainability, and climate change. She managed a national project, called Designer Teacher, on the design-oriented professional development of teachers. Currently, she is the vice dean of the Faculty of Educational Sciences and the director of Center of Teaching and Learning (CLT), a center which is established for the personal and professional development of the academics and the administrative staff as well as students.
Prof. Jaime Behiman Yama Morán
Prof. Jaime Behiman Yama Morán, Indigenous English and French teacher, master in English Language Teaching for Self Directed Learning, PhD student on education for diversity, currently working as an English teacher in the Amazonian context, in the Educational Institution José María Hernández, Puerto Leguizamo, Putumayo, Colombia. His current research area includes the decolonization of education in the Amazonian indigenous communities in Colombia.
Dr. Laura García Docampo
Dr. Laura García Docampo holds a PhD in Education from the University of Santiago de Compostela (Spain, 2023). She has a Master in Psychopedagogy (2017) and a Degree in Early Childhood Education (2015) as well as. She has obtained the “Outstanding Graduate Award” and the “Outstanding Master’s Degree Award”. She is a member of the ESCULCA Research Group. Her professional career has focused on working with groups of various ages, and participating in training activities and research projects. Currently, she is a substitute lecturer in the Department of Pedagogy and Didactics at USC (Spain). Her research focuses on emotional education and hospital pedagogy.
Dr. Secil KAYA GULEN
Dr. Secil KAYA GULEN is an Associate Professor of Open and Distance Education at Anadolu University Open Education Faculty. She completed her undergraduate education in the Department of Education Communication and Planning. Then completed her master’s degree in Educational Technologies Department. Finally, she received her Ph.D. degree from the Department of Educational Administration Inspection Planning and Economics in 2011. She continued her studies in the field of Distance Education, where she can synthesize her experience in all these academic fields. Her academic interests are distance education, instructional design, ICT integration in education, virtual classrooms and management of distance education. She has many published scientific articles and book chapters; she also took part in different projects related to distance education. She teaches undergraduate and graduate level courses.
Prof. Giovanna Lucia Piangiamore
Prof. Giovanna Lucia Piangiamore is a Research Scientist at INGV, graduated in Geology, a PhD in Geophysics with a Master of Science in Geophysics, and a Master’s of Scientific Journalism and Institutional Science Communication. She is the referent of the MUGED Geophysics Museum, a project leader in Natural Risk and Sustainability education projects for schools in Italy and Europe, and a Scientific Outreach leader of Geophysics projects. She develops scientific dissemination products (table and role serious games, digital adventures, active paths of discovery) didactic-informative experiments (EAS – Episodes of Situated Learning, geoevents, geoactivity, laboratories, exhibitions,…) as well as design and organization of special scientific venues (Planet Week, Science Festival, European Researchers’ Night,…).
Prof. Graciela Muñoz Alvarez
Prof. Graciela Muñoz Alvarez holds a Master’s Degree in Science Teaching from Universidad de Playa Ancha (Chile, 2009). She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and a Physics Teaching degree from Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso (Chile, 2003). She is currently pursuing a PhD in Specific Didactics at the University of Burgos, Spain, and serves as a physics professor in the Department of Sciences at Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María (Chile). Her work focuses on the teaching of physics in technical higher education, with a particular interest in science education and, specifically, physics teaching.
Mrs.Selin Uz Tunçay
Mrs.Selin Uz Tunçay, is a physical therapist and a PhD student in the Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Doctorate program at Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa Institute of Graduate Studies. She had completed the CLASI CASI (Certificate in Ayres Sensory Integration) The program includes advanced training in the administration, scoring, and interpretation of the comprehensive measures of sensory integration. She works and researches in the areas of sensory integration, postural awareness, and postural training. She has organized seminars for preschool teachers and parents on sensory integration disorders. She is also the owner of a physiotherapy consultancy center, where she works with children with sensory integration disorders.
Mrs. Joanne Hayek
Mrs. Joanne Hayek is an architect, designer, and educator specializing in impact-driven innovation. She is an Assistant Professor at the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI) and previously served as a Senior Lecturer at the American University of Beirut (AUB). Bridging academia and entrepreneurship, she is a founding partner of the R&D collective IBDÅ and co-founder of the slow fashion brand Vanina. Joanne holds degrees from Columbia University GSAPP and AUB, and has previously lectured at MIT, Columbia, and LSE.
Mrs. Amina Manal Zidi
Mrs. Amina Manal Zidi is a PhD student in Education at the University of the West of Scotland, researching the experiences of Algerian doctoral returnees. Alongside her studies, she works as a Student Buddy and is an active member of the UWS S2030 Student Reference Group, contributing to the university’s strategic planning. She has also participated in the 3MT (Three Minute Thesis) competition at UWS and Skills Development Scotland (SDS). Passionate about international education and student support, she has been recognized for her commitment to fostering inclusive academic environments.
Ms. Deborah Ifeoluwa Idowu
Ms. Deborah Ifeoluwa Idowu is an M.A. student in French and Francophone Studies at the University of Florida, focusing on French linguistics. She is a Graduate Teaching Assistant with a research interest in Second Language Acquisition (SLA) and pedagogy, particularly in vocabulary learning. A recipient of the J. Wayne Conner Memorial Scholarship, Deborah intends to pursue her research interests through to a PhD.
Julia María Crespo Comesaña
Julia María Crespo Comesaña began her professional career in 1989 overseeing educational programs in early childhood centers. In 1992, she started working at Vigo City Hall and, from that year, she began teaching at the University of Vigo, Santiago de Compostela, and UNED. In 2005 she defended her doctoral thesis. Her research focuses on school organization, immigrant inclusion, and family participation. She is a member of the ESCULCA Research Group and has received awards such as the “National Educational Research Award 2007” and the “María Barbeito Award 2012”. Currently, she is a University Lecturer at the University of Santiago de Compostela (Spain).
Mrs. Caterina Belle Azzarello
Mrs. Caterina Belle Azzarello is a mixed methods researcher in Education and STEM, holding a BA in philosophy, a BS in psychology, and an MA in educational psychology. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in educational psychology, focusing on typography research in STEM education. Recognized with numerous awards, her latest honor is the Colorado Women’s Education Scholarship. Her interests include AI for equity in education, readability, and STEM learning. She is engaged in projects on digital font reading, mathematical dispositions, and systems thinking.
Orsolya Kotnyek
Orsolya Kotnyek has an MSc university degree in Chemistry. She was a researcher and university lecturer in the field of environmental analytical chemistry for 8 years. She was responsible for organization lectures. She also has more than 10 years of experience in managing EU projects. As a project manager, she has gained experience in H2020 project financial coordination and project management.
Nóra Kövesd
Nóra Kövesd has an MSc Degree in Engineering Manager. She is a project manager and a co-owner of a Hungarian SME, the Trebag Ltd.
The main areas and topics that interest her are environmental protection/sustainable development, self-development, R+D and innovation, (serious) game development, and (mental) well-being. She was the coordinator of the EPIC project (2020-1-HU01-KA202-078669), which won the Prize of Excellence in 2024.
Mrs. Caterina Belle Azzarello
Mrs. Caterina Belle Azzarello is a mixed methods researcher in Education and STEM, holding a BA in philosophy, a BS in psychology, and an MA in educational psychology. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in educational psychology, focusing on typography research in STEM education. Recognized with numerous awards, her latest honor is the Colorado Women’s Education Scholarship. Her interests include AI for equity in education, readability, and STEM learning. She is engaged in projects on digital font reading, mathematical dispositions, and systems thinking.
Ms. Despoina Tosounidou
Ms. Despoina Tosounidou recently graduated cum laude with a Master’s in Linguistics from Leiden University, specializing in Applied Linguistics and Language and Communication. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature and six years of experience teaching English, Despoina has a strong interest in Second Language Acquisition and Pragmatics, often integrating these areas in research. Her work focuses on addressing the gap in pragmatics instruction within EFL classrooms, underscoring its importance in enhancing learners’ communication skills. Among her other interests, she enjoys reading about constructed languages and writing poetry and short stories, with her work featured in two anthologies.
Mr.Hernán Javier Lara Saavedra
Mr.Hernán Javier Lara Saavedra holds a Master’s degree in Geological Sciences from Ball State University (USA) and serves as Assistant Professor in the Geosciences Department at the Private Technical University of Loja. He has expertise in (a) geological exploration of metallic deposits ; (b) assessment of clays in heavy metals retention from acid mine drainage and (c) sludge analysis for reutilization as commodities. Recognized with funding for teacher innovation project, he is dedicated to advancing geological knowledge through his teaching and research.
Ms. Kylie Jane Carr
Ms. Kylie Jane Carr graduated from Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia. She is a PhD Candidate, Graduate Certificate of Research, Master of Education, Bachelor of Teaching, and Diploma in Children’s Services.
“Why do early years’ teachers teach mindfulness?” A qualitative research project utilizing an online survey and semi-structured interviews, to see why and how mindfulness is (or is not) transferred into early years classrooms.
Dr. Hilda Freimuth
English Language Learning and Teaching Department at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) in Canada.
Topic: : IELTS: The Global Gatekeeper
Dr Hilda Freimuth is a tenured Associate Teaching Professor in the English Language Learning and Teaching Department at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) in Canada. She holds a B.A. in German, a B.Ed. in primary education, an M.A. and M.Ed. in TESOL and a Ph.D. in Education. She has taught English in many parts of the world, with many years in the UAE. She has run three language learning centres – two in the UAE and one in Canada. She also managed a TESOL teacher training program in Vancouver for eight years. Hilda has published extensively in the past few years on research conducted in both the UAE and Canada and regularly travels the world to disseminate her findings.
Dr. Stefano Sandrone
Imperial College London, UK
Topic: : Medical education in the metaverse.
Dr. Stefano Sandrone is an Italian neuroscientist and educationalist working at Imperial College London. He was awarded the Julia Higgins Award and the President’s Award from Imperial College London, the A. B. Baker Teacher Recognition Award from the American Academy of Neurology, and the Science Educator Award presented by the Society for Neuroscience. He wrote three books, including Nobel Life: conversations with 24 Nobel Laureates on their Life stories, advice for future generations, and what remains to be discovered (published by Cambridge University Press, edited by the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings).
Dr. Ana Souto
Dr. Ana Souto is a senior Lecturer in Architecture and Director of Doctoral Programmes, at Nottingham Trent University (UK). Her scholarship develops inclusive approaches (decolonising architecture, neurodiversity, outreach) and embraces Students as Partners. Shereceived the NTU Vice-Chancellor Award in Scholarship in 2023, and she is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.
Dr. Maha Abasaid
Dr. Maha Abasaid is an ESL lecturer at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Muscat. She has a BA from the University of Jordon, Masters in Applied Linguistics from the Open University and a PhD in
Higher Education from the University of Liverpool. Her research interest is educational reforms.
Dr. Dorota M. Drużyłowska
Dr. Dorota M. Drużyłowska holds a PhD in the Humanities and is an Adjunct Professor at the Department of Russian Language, Institute of Slavic Studies, University of Wrocław, and a lecturer of Polish as a second language. Her current research interests are focused on phraseology, lexicography, language play and the linguodidactics of closely related languages: Russian and Polish.
Dr. Douglas Moodie
Dr. Douglas Moodie is a Professor of Management at Kennesaw State University Georgia, USA. He has a BS from Bristol University, UK, , MBA and MS in OR from Cornell University, NY, USA, and a PhD in Operations Management from Syracuse University, NY, USA. His current research interests are the effects of teaching modalities and Covid on learning outcomes for different student demographics.
Prof. Jacqueline Elizabeth Wolvaardt
Prof. Jacqueline Elizabeth Wolvaardt is an Associate Professor at the School of Health Systems and Public Health at the University of Pretoria (South Africa). She has a Bachelor in nursing, a Master of Public Health, and a doctorate in education. She was the joint recipient of the SAAHE Distinguished Educator Award in 2022.
Dr. Clare Finnegan-Coyne
Dr. Clare Finnegan-Coyne (BSc & PhD Biology) is a lecturer in Science at Atlantic Technological University, Ireland. Clare has most recently been engaged in science education research seeking to explore how to improve the accessibility of science, particularly through the use of Universal Design for Learning
Asst. Prof. Dr. Kosin Panyaatisin
Asst. Prof. Dr. Kosin Panyaatisin is a lecturer in Linguistics at the School of Language and Communication, National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA), Thailand. His research spans a range of interests, including Sociophonetics, Cognitive Linguistics, Ethnolinguistics, and Wellness.
Dr. Ana Claudia Delfini
Dr. Ana Claudia Delfini is a Pós Doctorate in Education from the Faculty of Education of the University of São Paulo.Full professor at the University of Vale de Itajaí, she works in the Pedagogy course, in the Professional Master’s in the Postgraduate Program in Education and Psicology. Leader of the Research Group/Cnpq “Education and Work”PPGE UNIVALI.
Dr. Brigita Pantelejeva
is a lecturer in communication and academic writing at Lithuanian and foreign universities for over 20 years, as well as founder of a unique language school for adults. Aiming to help students and adults to develop their communication skills in different languages. PhD in linguistics with recent focus on artificial intelligence tools in communication.
Dr. Verônica Gesser
Dr. Verônica Gesser is a post-Doctorate in Education: Curriculum and Teaching, Barry University, USA. Curriculum and teaching Ph.D, USA. Professor and Coordinator of the Graduate Program in Education (Masters and Doctorate) at the University of Vale do Itajaí. Extensive experience in Basic and Higher Education, with an emphasis on: Public Policies, General Theory of Planning and Curricular Development.
Dr. Inbal Shani
Dr. Inbal Shani is a clinical neuropsychologist, specializing in the psychology of gifted children and adolescents. She works as a researcher and a lecturer at the University of Haifa in human intelligence and giftedness. Inbal also serves as an educational psychologist in schools with classes for gifted students. For more than a decade, she has worked in the Ministry of Education as a mentor and trainer the courses for teachers and counselors of gifted with a special focus on the psychological characteristics of students with high intellectual potential.
Dr. Julie McIntosh
Dr. Julie McIntosh has a PhD in Biological Sciences and is a Professional Teaching Fellow at the School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand. She is passionate about creating learning environments that engage students in real-life scenarios that contextualise their knowledge, and excite students about scientific discovery and the process of science.
Mr. Cornelius Rahe
Mr. Cornelius Rahe was educated in Germany and Canada, earning the International Baccalaureate. He won national and European awards for his school’s history. He has been studying medicine at the Hannover Medical School since 2019 and is scientifically engaged in the analysis and optimization of teaching methods.
Mr. Samuel Kwaku Basoah Boateng
Mr. Samuel Kwaku Basoah Boateng is a Ph.D. student in Curriculum and Instruction at Montana State University. With a background in education and a focus on technology integration, he is currently a Graduate Teaching Assistant. His research explores teachers’ familiarity with technology in rural classrooms and their effective use of instructional design models. As a professional teacher, he brings practical experience to his academic journey, aiming to contribute meaningfully to the field..
Mrs. Syzane Merovci
Mrs. Syzane Merovci is a dedicated researcher from Pristina, Kosovo. She has earned her BSc and MA degrees in Language Arts and is currently working towards a PhD in Education at St Clement Ohridski University in Bitola, Republic of North Macedonia. Her previous research focus centered on teacher’s professional identity and the challenges within Kosovo’s educational system. Presently, she is deeply engaged in examining the effectiveness of active learning strategies in primary school settings and the hurdles associated with implementing recent educational reforms in schools.
Ms. Xue Ya
Ms. Xue Yao has been an Associate Language Lecturer at Xi’an-Jiaotong Liverpool University (XJTLU) since 2022. She is keen on integrating technology into teaching and learning. Her research interests include technology-enhanced learning, learner analytics and machine learning.
Ms. Ying Shao
Ms. Ying Shao is an Associate Language Lecturer at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) and a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (UK). With a passion for leveraging technology to enhance language education, she has been actively engaged in exploring the potential of AI-assisted teaching and learning.
Mrs. Gabriela Reses
Mrs. Gabriela Reses is a researcher at the Centre for Research in Didactics and Technology in the Training of Trainers (CIDTFF). She is a doctoral student in the Doctoral Programme in Multimedia in Education at the University of Aveiro. She has a degree in Biological Sciences, a specialisation in Educational Design and a Masters in Science and Technology Education.
Mrs. Nele Rohde
Mrs. Nele Rohde is an academic employee at the Heidelberg University of Education. She is working on her doctoral thesis about improving an e-Learning program for migrants and refugees with AI. Her areas of
Interest are e-Learning and AI, especially for young students who want to settle in Europe.
Miss. Sawitree Wongkittirungrueang
Miss. Sawitree Wongkittirungrueang is a Ph.D. candidate in the Program Quality of Life Development for Persons with Disabilities, Institute, Faculty of Medicine Ramahibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand. She is also a senior expert lecturer at the Autism Research Center, Faculty of Education, Khon Kaen University, Thailand. Her current research interests are focused on social stories for ASDs, law and policy for special needs, transitioning education with ASDs, the TEACCH Program for autism spectrum disorders, and the development of social skills for children with autism.
Ms. Erika Louise Branco Ribeiro
Ms. Erika Louise Branco Ribeiro is a PhD student in Education at the University of Aveiro – Portugal. She holds a master’s degree in Education and Professional Training at the same university. Currently, she has a doctoral grant from the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) to develop a research on STEAM Education and the development of creative thinking in the initial teachers education
Mr. Rong Luo
Mr. Rong Luo has been an Associate Language Lecturer at Xi’an-Jiaotong Liverpool University (XJTLU) since 2022. He is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (UK). His research interests include computer-assisted language learning, technology-enhanced language teaching, and the use of multimedia in language instruction.
Ms. Christine Dehnel
Ms. Christine Dehnel is currently an Assistant Principal and operational lead for an alternative provision in Milton Keynes, England; with over twenty years experience in education. Completed her Masters in Educational Leadership at the Virginia Commonwealth University, VA; and is now an EdD. student with the University of Buckingham, and a Fellow with the Chartered College of Teachers.
Miss. Ana Maria Mojica
Miss. Ana Maria Mojica graduated from EAN University in International Business and from the University of Nottingham with an MA in Educational Leadership and Management. She is a former Chevening Scholar. Former Global Competitiveness Leadership Fellow (GCL, 2022) at Georgetown University. A former fellow of the German government’s Cross Culture Program (CCP, 2021), and currently a YLAI fellow program designed by the US government. Education is a human right and a foundation for peace, tolerance, and sustainable development goals, which is why her professional and academic career has been developed in this field, designing and implementing new strategies to improve the quality of and access to education.
Mrs. Raqiya Aamir AlSalehi
Mrs. Raqiya Aamir AlSalehi is a lecturer at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Muscat. She got her Bachelor’s degree from Sultan Qaboos University, College of Arts. She has obtained her Master of Applied Linguistics from the University of Southern Queensland, Australia. She has presented at several regional and international conferences.
Ms. Iram Mushtaq
Ms.Iram Mushtaq is an Electrical Engineer with both an MS and a PhD in Engineering Management. Presently, she serves as a Teaching Associate at Strathclyde Business School, University of Strathclyde, UK. Her interests span various areas including knowledge sharing supply chain optimization, and Leadership.
Dr. Anabela Valente Simões
Assistant professor at the School of Technology and Management of the University of Aveiro (ESTGA-UA)
Topic: Integrating global skills development into tertiary education language learning
Dr. Anabela Valente Simões holds a PhD in Culture Studies (University of Aveiro, 2009) and a Master’s degree in Modern and Contemporary Literature and Culture (University of Coimbra, 2001). She also completed a BA in Spanish Language, Literature and Culture (2013) and a BA in Teaching English and German (1997). She is an assistant professor at the School of Technology and Management of the University of Aveiro (ESTGA-UA) since 2000, where she has taught several courses in the subject areas of languages for specific purposes, intercultural communication and business communication. She also collaborates with the Department of Languages and Cultures of the University of Aveiro in the supervision of post-graduate students. Dr. Anabela V. Simões has undertaken several academic management roles throughout the years, namely positions associated with the coordination of degree courses. Currently, she is a member of the Retail Management Degree Committee and the coordinator of the Languages Scientific Department at ESTGA-UA. She is a full member of the Research Centre for Languages, Literatures and Cultures of the University of Aveiro (CLLC-UA) and a collaborator of the Research Groups on Foreign Language Teacher Training (GEFOPLE) and on Literacy, Culture, Connectivity and Education (LECCE), of the State University of Goiás, Brazil. Her research interests include foreign language teaching and learning, intercultural communication, intercultural pragmatics and students’ transferable skills development. She has participated in international conferences and scientific meetings and authored several articles for various publications. She is a reviewer for several international scientific journals.
Dr. Smilena Dimitrova Smilkova
Associate professor of Music Education Methodology in Kindergarten and Primary School at the Faculty of Social Sciences of “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov” University, Burgas, Bulgaria.
Topic: Preparation of future Listeners through the artistic Image in Music
Dr. Smilena Dimitrova Smilkova is an associate professor of Music Education Methodology in Kindergarten and Primary School at the Faculty of Social Sciences of “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov” University, Burgas, Bulgaria. She has a master’s degree Pianist from the “Pancho Vladigerov“ Academy of Music, Sofia. She received her doctorate in Methodology of Music Education at “St. Kliment Ohridski” University of Sofia. Her scientific interests are in the field of music education methodology, piano methodology, psychology. She is an author of 3 books in the field of music teaching methodology and piano methodology. She presents her research activities at prestigious international conferences in Bulgaria, Ireland, Turkey, Spain, North Macedonia, Ukraine, Czech Republic.
Dr. Wilma van Staden
Rhodes University, South Africa
Topic: Mediating learning in a time of uncertain change
Dr Wilma van Staden has a Bachelor of Science degree majoring in Botany and Microbiology, a BSc and a Master’s degree in Aquatic Ecology (Environmental Management). Her post-graduate research focused on aquatic ecology and the limnology of freshwater bodies on sub-Antarctic Marion Island. Wilma’s career in environmental education started when she became an agricultural teacher in 2012 after completing her MSc. She became interested in sustainable agricultural education and joined the ELRC in 2015. Wilma’s research is founded on sustainability, agriculture and environmental education. However, since Covid, her research has shifted to ESD digital learning platforms and framework development and the digital pedagogical principles needed for transformative co-engaged active learning founded on ESD. At the moment, she is involved in a number of research programmes as part, particularly as the online course developer and researcher in the Amanzi for Food, Sustainability Starts with Teachers (SST) and Fundisa for Change teacher capacity-building programme. Across these programmes, broad research interests include transformative social and digital learning, indigenous heritage, ESD knowledge uptake through course-activated processes, the development and functioning of ESD Learning Network, and teacher educator and teacher professional development.
Prof. dr. Edita Slunjski
Prof. dr. Edita Slunjski is a full professor at the Pedagogy Department in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Science in Zagreb, Croatia. She is the author of roughly one hundred professional and scientific papers and 27 books. She is the president of the Croatian Pedagogy Association and the leader of the international professional interdisciplinary learning community in early and preschool education (ENNEA). Her research interests include early learning curricula, leadership, institutional culture, qualitative research and alternative pedagogical concepts. Her Awards are 2014. State award for science, 2015. Award of the City of Zagreb, 2022. Annual award of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, 2022. State award for science.
Prof. Michael Brandeis
Prof. Michael Brandeis is professor of Genetics at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. After 30 years at the bench, he focuses now on developing innovative teaching methods. He travels extensively to produce educational materials about key subjects in Biology and Environmental Awareness like his MOOC “Sex from Molecules to Elephants”.
Dr. Michael Kehler
Dr. Michael Kehler is a Research Chair of Masculinities Studies at the Werklund School of Education, University of Calgary, Canada. As a gender researcher his work examines, masculinities, allyship, health education, homophobia, GBV and schooling. His collaborations extend between Italy, UK, Australia and Canada with his work recognized internationally in the field of Masculinities Studies.
Ms. Jiawei Zhang
Ms. Jiawei Zhang is currently a PhD candidate in the Faculty of Education at University of Macau. She obtained her master’s degree from Beijing Normal University. Her research interests focus on teaching and teacher education, specifically on teacher identity construction and teacher professional development.
Ms. Deborah Maxfield
Ms. Deborah Maxfield currently serves as a Lecturer in English Education at Rikkyo University, Tokyo, and researches how concepts from her MSc in Psychology apply to second-language education, particularly in how group dynamics combine with cognitive and affective states to affect learning outcomes, group cohesion, student motivation, and L2 anxiety.
Ms. Mahnaz Aliyar
Ms. Mahnaz Aliyar is a Ph.D. candidate at the Victoria University of Wellington. She holds an MA in L2 Teaching and Learning from KU Leuven, an MA in Modern Languages from the University of Bologna, and a BA in the Italian Language from the University of Tehran. Her research interests include second language acquisition and vocabulary learning.
Mr.Kamal Heidari
Mr.Kamal Heidari is a doctoral candidate of Applied Linguistics at Victoria University of
Wellington. His research areas include vocabulary, psycholinguistics, and reading skill. He has published in journals like Journal of Psycholinguistic Research, Thinking Skills & Creativity, Journal of Mixed-Methods Research, International Journal of Early Years
Education, and Discourse and Society.
Keynote Speaker
Dr. Zuruzi Abu Samah
Chairman of the mechanical engineering department, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Topic: “Interdisciplinarity in engineering education”
Dr. Zuruzi Abu Samah is a professor at Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He has served as chair of the mechanical engineering department since 2019. After earning bachelors and doctoral degrees in materials from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore and University of California, Santa Barbara, respectively, he held a postdoctoral fellowship at Agilent Labs, CA and then joined Intel, AZ as a senior engineer. His interest in teaching led him to academic positions in Nanyang and Temasek polytechnics in Singapore, Singapore University of Technology and Design, and Universiti Teknologi Brunei. He has taught fundamental and advanced engineering courses to electrical, industrial and mechanical engineering students. His research interests include students perceptions of learning as well as technical / engineering education.
Prof. Anabela Simões
Prof. Anabela Simões is Assistant Professor at the University of Aveiro (UA), where she teaches Languages for Specific Purposes and Intercultural Business Communication. She holds a PhD in Culture Studies and is a full member of the Research Centre for Languages, Literatures and Cultures (UA). Her main research interests include: intercultural communication, FL teaching & learning and global skills development.
Dr. Wilma van Staden
Dr. Wilma van Staden is an environmental researcher ad e-learning specialist focused on agriculture and environmental education as part of the Environmental Learning Research Center Team at Rhodes University South Africa. Her current research focuses on the development and implementation of digital learning platforms for trainers of trainers integrated with indigenous heritage knowledge, ethical land care and sustainable development.
Ass. Prof. Susana Marisa Loureiro Pais Batista
Ass. Prof. Susana Marisa Loureiro Pais Batista is a Specialist in Rehabilitation Nursing, by the Higher School of Health of Viseu in 2019, Doctoral Degree in Nursing Science in 2018/04/10 by the University of Porto Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, Master’s Degree in Health Services Management in 2006/12/21 by ISCTE Business School, Degree in Nursing in 2001 by the Jean Piaget School of Health of Viseu She is currently an Adjunct Invited Professor at the Polytechnic Institute of Viseu – School of Health of Viseu, of which is a member of the scientific-pedagogical unit of rehabilitation nursing. Member of the Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing. Areas of interest: nursing rehabilitation, neuro-rehabilitation, palliative care, spirituality in nursing care.
Mr. Tim Oswald
Mr. Tim Oswald is a lecturer in English language and intercultural business communication at the University of Aveiro in central Portugal. His research interests include the intercultural competence, training undergraduates in research methodology, representations of Portuguese culture online and the formation of the destination image in another language.
Ms Chanchal Singh
Ms Chanchal Singh has 39 years of experience teaching EFL/ESL learners. She imparts Voice and Accent Training at Shantou University. She has an MBA and has received ‘Outstanding Teaching Award’, won 1st Prize a TKT held by MPI Macao & Cambridge University, contributed book chapters to TESOL press, received ‘Best Paper Award’ at conferences. Learner motivation is her field of interest.
Ms Sohani Gandhioke
Ms Sohani Gandhioke has a Masters in English. She has been teaching ESL/EFL learners since 2004. She teaches English at Shantou University and has received the highest Teacher Evaluation Scores. She was awarded the ‘Certificate of Appreciation ‘by Business School. contributed book chapters to TESOL press, received ‘Best Paper Award’ at conferences. TBLT is her field of research.
Mr.Rasheed Al Rayah Sanhoury
Mr.Rasheed Al Rayah Sanhoury has been teaching English in the Sultanate of Oman since 2005. He has a BA in English Language and Literature and a CELTA. His research interests include the study of the Spatial Bias agency, Neurolinguistic, Discourse, Grammar, Material Design, and Professional Development.
Mr.Adam L. Miller
Mr.Adam L. Miller has been teaching in Japan for over 13 years. He is currently working in the department of Global Culture and Communication at Aichi Shukutoku University in Nagoya City, Japan. He is also currently enrolled in a Doctorate in Education through Open University Malaysia.
Mr. Igor Balan
Mr. Igor Balan (Master degree in Law, Odessa National Law Academy (Ukraine)), businessman (has several businesses and companies in Ukraine). The Owner and the teacher of Miniboss Dublin Business School (Ireland) – the Franchise branch of The International Miniboss Business School. He is opening in Dublin (Ireland) innovative school with an exclusive program and interactive methods of business education for children from 6 years old. MINIBOSS DUBLIN BUSINESS SCHOOL will implement educational learning objectives according to 8Q, Bloom’s Taxonomy, TRIZ, and other effective methods of mindset development for children in Ireland.
Miss.Xinran Wang
Miss.Xinran Wang studied Education Management and Finance at the University of Jinan and got her bachelor’s degree in June 2018. From 2020 to present, she is a Master student in Education Management at the University of Malaya.
Mr. Richard Cotterill
Mr. Richard Cotterill is a lecturer in Management at the University of York’s International Pathway College. He is in the final stages of completing his doctorate in education, which evaluates the use of visual metaphors in lectures as a way of unlocking meaning. Other research interests include how to strengthen the validity of group assessments and the use of online discussion forums. Richard is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and holder of the University of York Vice-Chancellor’s Teaching Award.