Bekalu Atnafu Taye | Pedagogy | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bekalu Atnafu Taye | Pedagogy | Best Researcher Award

Kotebe University of Education | Ethiopia

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bekalu Atnafu Taye is a distinguished scholar in English Language Education with extensive expertise in TEFL, special needs education, and psychosocial determinants of learning. Holding a PhD and two MAs from Addis Ababa University, he has contributed significantly to research on language anxiety, multilingual education, and educational policy. His academic career spans multiple leadership roles, including Associate Professor at Kotebe University of Education, Director of Centres of Excellence in Research, and Associate Editor of the Kotebe Journal of Education. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bekalu Atnafu Taye has published extensively in national and international journals, authored monographs, prepared teaching materials, and supervised PhD students. He has coordinated and contributed to local and international research projects and grants, including collaborations with the University of Bristol and the East African Education Research Network. His professional services include journal peer reviews, training workshops, and consultancy for educational institutions. Recognized with multiple awards and appreciation letters, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bekalu Atnafu Taye exemplifies academic excellence, research impact, and leadership in advancing education in Ethiopia and beyond.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

  • Taye, B. A. (2019). The medium of instruction in Ethiopian higher education institutions. African Journal of Teacher Education, 8(2), 1–24.

  • Taye, B. A. (2018). Language anxiety and achievement among freshman students of Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia. African Journal of Teacher Education, 7(2).

  • Taye, B. A. (2017). Ethnic federalism and conflict in Ethiopia. African Journal on Conflict Resolution, 17(2), 41–66.

  • Taye, B. A. (2017). Verbal behaviors of teachers and student anxiety in language classes. Bahir Dar University Journal of Education, 17(1).

  • Taye, B. A. (2018). Ethnic cleansing in Ethiopia. Peace Research, 50(1), 77–104.

Conor Kenneally | Education Award | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Conor Kenneally | Education Award | Best Researcher Award

PhD Candidate, The University of Adelaide, Australia

Conor Kenneally is a dedicated researcher in educational psychology currently pursuing his PhD at The University of Adelaide (2024–present), supported by a Research Training Program Scholarship. He earned an MEd by research (2022–23) with a perfect GPA of 7.0/7.0, receiving the Future Talent Scholarship. His background spans multiple disciplines, including a Master of Teaching from The University of Melbourne and University of Oulu, and degrees in science and forensic chemistry from Flinders University. Recognized with multiple scholarships and research awards, his expertise bridges psychology, education, and scientific inquiry. 📖🔬✍️

Publication Profile

Orcid

Academic Journey 🎓📚

Conor Kenneally is a passionate researcher currently pursuing a PhD in Educational Psychology at The University of Adelaide (2024–present), supported by the Research Training Program Scholarship. He previously completed an MEd by research (2022–23) with a perfect GPA of 7.0/7.0, earning the Future Talent Scholarship. His academic background also includes a Master of Teaching from The University of Melbourne and University of Oulu (2015, 2017), where he gained international experience. Additionally, he holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) and a BSc in Forensic and Analytical Chemistry from Flinders University. Recognized with multiple scholarships, his expertise spans psychology, education, and scientific research. 📖🔬✍️

Research Excellence 🏆

Mr. Kenneally’s research journey began with an Honours thesis in organic chemistry at Flinders University, where he achieved Second Class Division A Honours. His transition into educational psychology research showcases his adaptability and intellectual curiosity. The high academic distinctions and research-based degrees indicate strong analytical and investigative skills, crucial for a top-tier researcher.

Research Focus

Conor Kenneally’s research primarily focuses on educational psychology 🧠📖, with a strong emphasis on cognitive load theory and visuospatial abilities in learning. His work integrates augmented reality (AR) technology 🕶️📱 to enhance STEM education, particularly in chemistry learning 🧪. His recent study, A Cognitive Load Approach to Molecular Geometries, explores how AR can improve students’ understanding of molecular structures. With a multidisciplinary approach combining psychology, technology, and science education, his research aims to advance innovative teaching methodologies and improve student engagement in complex subjects. 🚀🎓💡

 

Publication Top Notes

A Cognitive Load Approach to Molecular Geometries: Augmented Reality Technology and Visuospatial Abilities in Chemistry

Sunaina Sharma | Education | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sunaina Sharma | Education | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sunaina Sharma, Brock University, Canada

Dr. Sunaina Sharma is a dedicated educator, currently a lecturer and practicum advisor at Brock University. With a Ph.D. in Educational Sustainability from Nipissing University, she brings extensive experience teaching English at both secondary and post-secondary levels. Her passion lies in fostering critical thinking and global competencies through innovative, inclusive teaching methods. Dr. Sharma is also actively involved in various professional initiatives, focusing on equity, anti-racism, and educational innovation. She is a member of the Ontario College of Teachers and the International Center of Academic Integrity. 🌍📚👩‍🏫

 

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education and Expertise 🌱📚

Dr. Sunaina Sharma holds a Ph.D. in Educational Sustainability from the Schulich School of Education, Nipissing University, along with a Master’s in Curriculum Leadership and a Bachelor’s in Education from the University of Toronto. She also holds a Bachelor’s in Sociology from McMaster University. Her additional qualifications include certifications in Supporting Quality Pre-service Teaching Education, Teaching English Language Learners, and Collaborative Problem Solving, among others. Dr. Sharma is a member of the Ontario College of Teachers and the International Center of Academic Integrity. She is deeply committed to promoting equity, critical thinking, and innovation in education. 👩‍🏫🌍📖

 

Professional Experience 📚👩‍🏫

Dr. Sunaina Sharma currently serves as a Lecturer and Practicum Advisor at Brock University, where she designs and leads courses such as Professional, Law and Principles of Teaching, and Teaching, Research, and Education Inquiry, focusing on creating innovative curricula and fostering engaging learning experiences for adult learners. She also mentors students in their practicum placements, enhancing their professional growth. In addition to her university role, Dr. Sharma has taught English at M.M. Robinson High School and led school-wide literacy initiatives at Lester B. Pearson High School. Her work emphasizes critical thinking, equity, and student empowerment in education. 🌍📖

 

Professional Activities 🌍📖

Dr. Sunaina Sharma actively contributes to national, provincial, and regional initiatives focused on equity, education, and social justice. She is a founding member of the grassroots initiative “I Am The One You Hate,” working to challenge discrimination. Dr. Sharma has also contributed to research with SSHRC and collaborated on various education-focused committees, including developing reading comprehension questions for EQAO and reviewing assessment items for equity. Her leadership extends to mentoring educators, including in Costa Rica and at the Halton District School Board. She was recognized with the Faculty of Education Sessional Award for Excellence in Teaching at Brock University. 🎓✨

 

Research Focus 📚💡

Dr. Sunaina Sharma’s research centers on the intersection of education, technology, and student well-being. Her work explores how digital tools can enhance learning while addressing challenges like anxiety in students, especially during oral presentations. She also focuses on academic integrity in the digital age, helping students navigate technology ethically in the classroom. Dr. Sharma’s interest in student engagement is reflected in her studies on using technology to reconnect post-pandemic learners. Her research contributes to fostering critical thinking, enhancing classroom connectivity, and creating inclusive educational environments. 🌐📱📖

 

Publication Top Notes  

  • Inquiry-Driven Transformation: Empowering Students by Mitigating Presentation Anxiety – S. Sharma, W. Lang, 2024 📚
  • Tackling High School Students’ Anxiety Over Oral Presentations – S. Sharma, W. Lang, 2024 🎤
  • Fostering Academic Integrity in the Digital Age: Empowering Student Voices to Navigate Technology as a Tool for Classroom Policies – S. Sharma, 2024 💻
  • Cultivating Classroom Connectivity: Navigating the Role of Cell Phones in Education – S. Sharma, 2024 📱
  • The Role of Digital Technology in Supporting English Language Learners: Balancing Engagement and Access in Secondary Schools – S. Sharma, 2024 🌐
  • Preserving Academic Integrity in Ontario High Schools: Emerging Challenges – S. Sharma, R. Kumar, 2024 📖
  • The It Factor: What Impact Does “It” Have? Conducting Inquiry for Growth and Achievement – S. Sharma, W. Lang, 2024 🔍
  • Plagiarism: The What, Why, and How – S. Sharma, 2023 ✍️
  • Inquire, Connect, and Disconnect: Technology Implementation to (Re-) Engage Post-Pandemic Students – S. Sharma, 2023 🦠
  • An Exploration of the Relationship Between Digital Technology Use and Student Engagement in a Grade 11 English Class: A Classroom Ethnography – S. Sharma, 2018 💼

 

Nathaniel Bryan | Education Award | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Nathaniel Bryan | Education Award | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Nathaniel Bryan, University of Texas at Austin, United States

Based on the information provided, Nathaniel Bryan, Ed.D., Ph.D., appears to be a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Here are the reasons supporting his suitability:

Publication profile

Scopus

Academic Background

Holds both a Doctor of Philosophy in Early Childhood Education and a Doctor of Education in Educational Administration, demonstrating a robust and comprehensive academic foundation.

Professional Experience

Currently an Associate Professor at the University of Texas at Austin.

Extensive teaching and administrative experience at various reputable institutions, indicating significant contributions to the field of education.

Awards and Recognitions

Recipient of the Emerging Scholar Award from the American Educational Research Association and the Dr. Vernon Polite Research on Black Males Award, highlighting his impactful research.

Publications

  • Bryan, N., DeJohnette, M., Johnson, P. (2024). “They can play, but…: Investigating teachers’ use of exclusionary discipline practices as anti-Black misandric restrictions of Black boyhood play in early childhood classrooms.” Learning, Culture and Social Interaction, 47, 100840. 🏫
  • Cook, D.A., Bryan, N. (2024). “Introduction: Critical Race Theory, Classroom Practice, and Building a Just Future.” Critical Race Theory and Classroom Practice, pp. 1–10. 📚
  • Cook, D.A., Bryan, N. (2024). “Critical Race Theory and Classroom Practice.” Critical Race Theory and Classroom Practice, pp. 1–150. 📖
  • Cook, D.A., Bryan, N. (2024). “Conclusion: From Bad Faith to Good Faith: An Altar Call to Teach Truth.” Critical Race Theory and Classroom Practice, pp. 138–144. 📘
  • Jamieson, P., Rapos, E.J., Bryan, N. (2023). “Work in Progress: Let’s Play – Improving Our Teaching by Reversing Roles and Being a Learner with Board Games.” ASEE Annual Conference and Exposition, Conference Proceedings. 🎲
  • Bryan, N. (2023). “Toward What Justice and Justice for Whom? A BlackCrit Meditation on and against Miami University’s Department of Teaching, Curriculum, and Educational Inquiry’s Threshold Concepts.” Equity and Excellence in Education. 📓
    • Citations: 2
  • McMillian, R., Bryan, N. (2023). “Living within it all: Black Critical Theory, Imprisoned Black Radical Tradition, and the art of BlackCrit Portraiture to center voices from sites of incarceration.” International Journal of Qualitative Studies in Education. 🎨
    • Citations: 1
  • Bryan, N., McMillian, R., LaMar, K. (2022). “Prison abolition literacies as Pro-Black pedagogy in early childhood education.” Journal of Early Childhood Literacy, 22(3), pp. 383–407. 🔏
    • Citations: 3
  • Bryan, N. (2021). “To Me, He Teaches Like the Child Learns: Black Maternal Caregivers on the Pedagogies and Schooling Practices of a Black Male Kindergarten Teacher.” Urban Review, 53(3), pp. 491–515. 🧸
    • Citations: 2
  • Bryan, N. (2021). “Remembering Tamir Rice and Other Black Boy Victims: Imagining Black PlayCrit Literacies Inside and Outside Urban Literacy Education.” Urban Education, 56(5), pp. 744–771. 🎮
    • Citations: 27

Conferences and Presentations

Regularly presents at prestigious conferences, further establishing his influence and recognition in the academic community.

Professional Certifications

Holds long-standing certifications in teaching and school administration, underscoring his practical and theoretical expertise.

Given his extensive and impactful research, numerous publications, and recognition by esteemed organizations, Dr. Nathaniel Bryan exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher, making him a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Krystyna Nowak-Fabrykowski | Education Award | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Krystyna Nowak-Fabrykowski | Education Award | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Krystyna Nowak-Fabrykowski, Central Michigan University, United States

Prof. Krystyna Nowak-Fabrykowski is a distinguished academic specializing in education and linguistic applied to teaching. She holds a Ph.D. from Warsaw University, Poland, and has completed post-doctoral research at Laval University, Canada. With extensive teaching experience, she is currently a Professor at Central Michigan University, focusing on Teacher and Special Education. Prof. Nowak-Fabrykowski has received numerous awards, including the VIP Alumni Award from the University of Lodz and multiple Faculty Research and Creative Endeavour Premier Displays. Her research interests span educational reform and the role of symbols in schooling. 📚🎓🌍

Publication Profile

Education

She earned her Ph.D. from Warsaw University, Poland, focusing on “The Role of Symbols in the Process of Schooling Children.” She completed her post-doctoral fellowship at Laval University, Canada. Prof. Nowak-Fabrykowski also holds a Master of Education from the University of Lodz and a diploma from Sorbonne University in Phonetics and Linguistics Applied to Teaching French. 🎓📜

Professional Experience

Currently a Professor at Central Michigan University, she has served at Coastal Carolina University, John Carroll University, and Mount Union College, among others. Her roles have included Associate Professor and Assistant Professor, and she has held various lecturing positions internationally. 🌍👩‍🏫

Awards

Prof. Nowak-Fabrykowski has received numerous accolades, including the VIP Alumni Award from the University of Lodz and several Faculty Research and Creative Endeavour Premier Displays at Central Michigan University. She has also been awarded grants for professional development and curriculum content. 🏆💼

 

Research Focus

Prof. Krystyna Nowak-Fabrykowski’s research primarily focuses on early childhood education and cultural comparative studies. Her work, such as the article “A Comparative Analysis of Early Years’ Programme Culture in the US and Poland,” highlights her commitment to advancing humanistic principles in education. This study emphasizes the importance of love, freedom, care, and consideration for others within early years’ programs. Her research seeks to explore and improve educational practices by comparing different cultural approaches, aiming to enhance the overall quality and humanity of early childhood education. 🌍👶📚

 

Publication Top Notes

A comparative analysis of early years’ programme culture in the US and Poland – advancing humanism by placing love, freedom, care and consideration for others first

Eduardo Encabo | Education | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Eduardo Encabo | Education | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Eduardo Encabo, University of Murcia (Spain), Spain

Eduardo Encabo is an Associate Professor at the University of Murcia’s Faculty of Education, specializing in the teaching of language and literature. He holds a B.Ed. (2000) and Ed.D. (2003) from the University of Murcia, and an M.A. in Reading Promotion and Children’s Literature (2005) from the University of Castilla-La Mancha. With over 73 research articles, 55 book chapters, and 19 books, his research focuses on teacher training, children’s literature, and intercultural education. Dr. Encabo has supervised 14 doctoral theses and received multiple awards, including the Ed.D. Dissertation Award (2003-2004). 🌟📖

Publication profile

Qualifications 🎓📚

Dr. Encabo holds a B.Ed. in Pedagogy and Psychology (2000), an Ed.D. in Teaching of Language and Literature (2003) from the University of Murcia, an M.A. in Reading Promotion and Children’s Literature (2005) from the University of Castilla-La Mancha, and a B.A. in Spanish Language Studies (2007) from the University of Murcia.

Professional Experience 💼🏫

With a career beginning in 2001, he has served as a lecturer and advanced to a tenured lecturer in 2005, and later an associate professor in 2007, focusing on the teaching of language and literature.

Honors and Awards 🏆📜

Dr. Encabo has received numerous accolades, including the Ed.D. Dissertation Award (2003-2004), the III ODS Awards (2023), and the II Research Awards in “Reading and Social Education” (2024).

Research Focus 📚🧠

Dr. Eduardo Encabo’s research primarily spans the fields of language and literature didactics, children’s literature, and digital literacy. He emphasizes innovative teaching methodologies and the role of intercultural education in bridging cultural divides. His work often explores gender communication differences, the integration of digital competence in education, and effective pedagogical strategies for enhancing literary skills among young learners. Dr. Encabo also delves into the intersections of critical linguistics and socio-educational contexts, aiming to foster a more inclusive and dynamic learning environment. His extensive contributions include research on new narrative formats and their educational impact. 🌍✍️

Publications Top Notes 📚

  • Use of the humanized anti-epidermal growth factor receptor monoclonal antibody h-R3 in combination with radiotherapy in the treatment of locally advanced head and neck cancer – Journal of Clinical Oncology – 406 citations (2004) 🦠🧬
  • Introducción a la didáctica de la lengua y la literatura: un enfoque sociocrítico – Ediciones Octaedro – 114 citations (2021) 📖🗣️
  • Claves para una enseñanza artístico-creativa: la dramatización – Claves para una enseñanza artístico-creativa: la dramatización – 101 citations (2009) 🎭📘
  • Fundamentos didácticos de la lengua y la literatura – Madrid: Síntesis – 81 citations (2013) 📚✍️
  • El desarrollo de habilidades lingüísticas: una perspectiva crítica – Grupo Editorial Universitario – 49 citations (2001) 🧠📖
  • Mejorar la comunicación en niños y adolescentes – Anaya-Spain – 49 citations (2001) 🗣️👧
  • Chirurgica Taurina: a 10-year experience of bullfight injuries – Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery – 47 citations (2006) 🩺🐂
  • Teachers’ attitudes towards correcting students’ written errors and mistakes – Universidad de Granada – 45 citations (2008) ✏️📄
  • Computed tomography vs clinical and multidisciplinary procedures for early evaluation of severe abdomen and chest trauma—a cost analysis approach – Intensive care medicine – 45 citations (1996) 🏥🔬
  • Competencia digital y literacidad: nuevos formatos narrativos en el videojuego Dragon Age: Orígenes – Comunicar: Revista Científica Iberoamericana de Comunicación y Educación – 41 citations (2011) 🎮💻

 

Zama Mthombeni | Higher Education Award | Young Scientist Award

Ms. Zama Mthombeni | Higher Education Award | Young Scientist Award

Ms. Zama Mthombeni , Human Sciences Research Council, South Africa

🌟 Dr. Zama Mthombeni is a dynamic scholar with a Ph.D. in Development Studies from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Her research intersects academia and societal issues, focusing on themes like education, culture, and socio-economic development. With a robust publication record in prestigious journals and active involvement in peer review processes, she is shaping discourse on African identity, language policies, and the impact of technology. Dr. Mthombeni’s accolades include scholarships and awards for her leadership and academic excellence. Her diverse skill set encompasses qualitative and quantitative research, project management, and stakeholder engagement. She’s committed to driving positive change and promoting inclusivity in academia. 📚🌍

 

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS:

🎓 Dr. Zama Mthombeni is a highly qualified scholar, holding a Ph.D. in Development Studies from the University of KwaZulu Natal. She has a solid educational background, including a Master’s in Commerce focusing on Local Economic Development and a Master’s in Social Sciences specializing in Public Policy. With a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and another in Political Science and Psychology, both from the University of KwaZulu Natal, her academic journey reflects a strong commitment to understanding societal complexities. Dr. Mthombeni’s diverse academic qualifications equip her with a multifaceted understanding of developmental issues, contributing significantly to her impactful research endeavors. 📚🌱

 

Awards:

🏆 Dr. Zama Mthombeni has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards throughout her academic journey. Notable accolades include the Ubuntu Team Award from the Human Sciences Research Council in 2022, underscoring her collaborative spirit. She also received the National Research Fund Scholarship for her Ph.D. studies in 2020, showcasing her dedication to research excellence. Additionally, Dr. Mthombeni’s leadership and community engagement were acknowledged with the Rick Turner Scholarship in 2017. Her academic prowess earned her the Deputy Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship in 2015 and the HCI Foundation Bursary in 2011, highlighting her commitment to educational achievement and societal impact. 🎓🌟

 

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:

🔍 Dr. Zama Mthombeni brings her expertise to MANCOSA as an External Research Supervisor since January 2024. In this role, she guides postgraduate, honors, and master’s students through their research journey, ensuring compliance with institutional guidelines. Dr. Mthombeni fosters a supportive environment, assisting students in topic selection, research planning, and report structuring. She prioritizes ethical standards, encourages publication of research findings, and facilitates access to funding opportunities. Through her mentorship, she cultivates research competence and contributes to the academic development of aspiring scholars, enriching the research landscape with innovative insights. 🎓✨

 

Work Experience :

📊 Dr. Zama Mthombeni served as a Research and Communications Officer at Sakhumnotho Development Services from January to December 2014. In this role, she spearheaded research projects like Asixoxe youth dialogues and talent shows, ensuring timely execution and adherence to budgets. Leading a research team, she managed day-to-day operations, addressed project issues, and reported progress to management and stakeholders. Dr. Mthombeni excelled in communication, acting as a liaison between the NGO and the Office of the Premier. She also handled administrative tasks efficiently, contributing to the organization’s objectives. Despite her contract’s termination, she left a lasting impact through her dedication and professionalism. 🌟📝

 

Research Focus:

🔬 Dr. Zama Mthombeni’s research focus lies predominantly in the realm of educational policy and social dynamics within South African higher education. Through her work, she delves into issues such as language policy implementation, the impact of fee-free education, and the challenges faced by non-traditional students. Her investigations also extend to broader societal issues, including xenophobia and cultural heritage preservation. Dr. Mthombeni’s commitment to understanding and addressing these complex issues is evident in her diverse publication record and conference presentations. Through her research endeavors, she strives to contribute to the advancement of inclusive and equitable education systems in South Africa and beyond. 📚✨

Excellence in Academia Award

Excellence in Academia Award

Introduction: Welcome to the prestigious Excellence in Academia Award – a celebration of scholarly achievement and academic brilliance. This distinguished award recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to academia, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and leaving an indelible mark on their respective fields.

About the Award: The Excellence in Academia Award honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional prowess in research, teaching, and overall academic excellence. This accolade celebrates those whose dedication to the pursuit of knowledge has significantly advanced their field and inspired others to reach new heights.

Eligibility: This award is open to scholars and educators across all disciplines and institutions. There are no age limits, and candidates must possess a minimum of [qualification] with a proven record of impactful publications. Recurrent achievements in academia are also considered.

Evaluation Criteria: Candidates will be evaluated based on the quality and impact of their research, teaching methodologies, and overall contribution to the academic community. The judging panel will consider the significance of publications, innovation in teaching, and the lasting impact of the nominee's work.

Submission Guidelines: To be considered for this esteemed award, applicants must submit a comprehensive biography, an abstract highlighting their key contributions, and supporting files that showcase their work. Submissions should adhere to the guidelines outlined on the official award website.

Recognition: The recipient of the Excellence in Academia Award will receive widespread recognition for their achievements, including featured profiles in leading academic publications, invitations to prestigious events, and the opportunity to present their work to a broader audience.

Community Impact: This award not only recognizes individual excellence but also celebrates the positive impact nominees have had on the academic community. Successful candidates will have demonstrated a commitment to fostering collaboration, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing.

Biography: Nominees are required to submit a detailed biography highlighting their academic journey, key milestones, and contributions to their field. This provides a holistic view of the nominee's academic trajectory.

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