Yoo Kyung Chang | Learning Technology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yoo Kyung Chang | Learning Technology | Best Researcher Award

Clinical Professor and Academic Director at New York University, United States

Dr. Yoo Kyung Chang is a Clinical Professor and the Academic Director of Emerging Technologies at the Division of Undergraduate Studies, School of Professional Studies, New York University. Her work centers on the intersection of technology and human development, combining theory, design, and practice to explore how digital tools shape cognition, behavior, and learning. Her multidisciplinary research portfolio includes areas such as data-driven design, online learning environments, game-based media literacy education, e-sports training, health behavior support systems, mixed reality (MR), and artificial intelligence (AI). With a commitment to both academic rigor and practical impact, Dr. Chang leverages her expertise to prepare future innovators while leading critical conversations around ethical and developmental implications of emerging technologies. Her leadership roles and research excellence position her as a forward-thinking academic and a valuable contributor to technology-enhanced education and behavioral transformation initiatives.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Dr. Yoo Kyung Chang holds a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline that integrates educational technology, cognitive science, and media studies, reflecting her interdisciplinary academic background. Her education has laid a strong foundation for her research focus on human development through the use of emerging technologies. Although specific degree-granting institutions are not provided, her academic trajectory likely includes advanced degrees in fields such as learning sciences, human-computer interaction, or communication and technology. This educational background informs her exploration of metacognition, behavioral psychology, and data-driven environments, which are key themes in her scholarly work. Throughout her academic training, she has developed a comprehensive understanding of how educational technologies affect learners’ cognition and engagement. Her education also supports her capacity to design impactful curricula and lead research initiatives at NYU, fostering innovation at the intersection of learning, media, and technology.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Yoo Kyung Chang serves as a Clinical Professor and Academic Director of Emerging Technologies at the Division of Undergraduate Studies, School of Professional Studies, New York University. In this dual role, she combines teaching, research leadership, and curriculum development to foster innovation in undergraduate education. Her professional experience spans academia and applied research environments, where she has designed and led initiatives in online learning, data analytics, digital literacy, and immersive technologies. Prior to her current position, she likely held roles in educational research, instructional design, or interdisciplinary technology-focused programs. Her responsibilities include mentoring students, guiding research on cognitive and behavioral development, and overseeing technology integration in educational practices. Dr. Chang’s professional career is marked by a commitment to fostering equity and impact through digital innovation, making her a respected leader in the academic community and a sought-after expert in human-technology interaction.

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Yoo Kyung Chang’s research interests lie at the nexus of emerging technologies and human development. Her current work focuses on the cognitive, affective, and metacognitive dimensions of data-driven design, with applications across online learning, media behavior, and behavioral health. She is particularly interested in how technological environments—such as games, MR, and AI systems—affect users’ learning strategies, decision-making processes, and emotional responses. Her research also explores game-based approaches to media literacy, the design of digital tools for health behavior support, and training systems in competitive e-sports. With a deep commitment to both empirical study and practical application, Dr. Chang examines how technology can be purposefully designed to empower individuals across age groups and contexts. Her interdisciplinary lens bridges psychology, communication, and design, allowing her to contribute meaningful insights into the ethical, developmental, and educational implications of next-generation technologies.

Award and Honor🏆

While specific awards and honors are not detailed in the current biography, Dr. Yoo Kyung Chang’s prestigious position at New York University as a Clinical Professor and Academic Director is itself a reflection of her recognized academic and professional excellence. Her leadership in emerging technologies and her influential research on cognitive and behavioral impacts of technology likely contribute to her recognition within scholarly and professional communities. It is reasonable to infer that she has received institutional commendations, research grants, or teaching awards throughout her academic career, especially given her interdisciplinary focus and innovation in pedagogy and applied research. Participation in national or international conferences, keynote invitations, and leadership roles in research projects further speak to the esteem in which she is held. Documenting specific recognitions would further validate her candidacy for research awards and highlight her sustained contributions to academic and technological advancement.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Yoo Kyung Chang possesses a diverse and advanced set of research skills tailored to the study of human-technology interaction. Her expertise spans qualitative and quantitative research methods, data-driven design analysis, cognitive and behavioral assessment techniques, and educational technology evaluation. She is skilled in developing and deploying experimental frameworks that explore how digital environments affect learning, emotional engagement, and metacognitive awareness. Her background supports the design of game-based learning interventions, MR/VR environments, AI-driven education systems, and health behavior platforms. Dr. Chang also demonstrates proficiency in human-centered design and user experience (UX) research, enabling her to align technological innovation with developmental needs. Her ability to collaborate across disciplines—integrating insights from psychology, media studies, and design—strengthens her research output and impact. These skills make her not only an accomplished researcher but also a catalyst for meaningful innovation in digital learning and behavioral support technologies.

Conclusion💡

Dr. Yoo Kyung Chang is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on her innovative and interdisciplinary research portfolio, leadership in academic settings, and her significant contributions to technology-enabled human development. While additional visibility in terms of publications, grants, and international collaborations would enhance her candidacy further, her impactful work across cognitive, behavioral, and technological domains already positions her as a strong and deserving contender.

Publications Top Noted✍

  • Title: How can AR‑enhanced books support early readers? Exploring literacy development through AR design principles

  • Authors: Yoo Kyung Chang, Jullia Lim, Jordan Burkland

  • Year: 2024

  • Citation Count: 1 citation

Dr. Dirgha Joshi | Educational technology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Dirgha Joshi, Educational technolog, Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at Tribhuvan University, Nepal

Professional Profile

🌟 Summary:

Dr. Dirgha Raj Joshi is a distinguished faculty member at the Department of Mathematics Education, Mahendra Ratna Campus, Tribhuvan University, Nepal. With a Ph.D. from Banaras Hindu University and advanced degrees from Tribhuvan University, Dr. Joshi has devoted his career to enhancing mathematics education through the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). His extensive teaching experience spans both secondary and higher education, including roles as a school principal and part-time faculty member at Nepal Open University. Dr. Joshi is recognized for his contributions to curriculum development, teacher training, and research supervision. His work aims to improve the effectiveness of teaching methodologies and student outcomes in mathematics.

🎓 Education:

  • Ph.D. in Mathematics Education, BHU, Varanasi, India (2017)
  • M.Ed. in Mathematics, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal (2008)
  • B.Ed. in Mathematics, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal (2006)

💼 Professional Experience

  • Faculty Member, Mahendra Ratna Campus, Tribhuvan University (2018 – present)
  • Part-time Faculty Member, Nepal Open University (2018 – present)
  • School Principal, Bhawani Higher Secondary School, Bajhang, Nepal (2010 – 2014)
  • Mathematics Teacher, Maheswari Higher Secondary School, Bajhang, Nepal (2008 – 2010)

🔬 Research Interests:

  • Integration of ICT in Mathematics Education: Exploring how digital tools and technologies can enhance teaching and learning experiences in mathematics.
  • Educational Technology: Investigating the application of various educational technologies to improve pedagogical practices and student engagement.
  • Quantitative Research Methods: Utilizing statistical and analytical methods to assess educational interventions and outcomes.
  • Teacher Training and Professional Development: Developing and evaluating training programs that equip teachers with the skills necessary to effectively incorporate ICT into their classrooms.
  • Student Achievement and Motivation: Studying factors that influence student performance and motivation in mathematics, including the impact of technology, teaching strategies, and psychological factors.

🏆 Awards and Memberships:

  • Nepal Bidhya Bhusan A: The highest academic award honored by the President of Nepal
  • Memberships:
    • Council of Mathematics Education, Kathmandu
    • Nepal Mathematical Society
    • Nepal PhD Association
    • American Psychological Association (APA)

Skills and Expertise:

  • Dynamic Geometry Software: Mathematica, GeoGebra
  • Data Analysis Tools: SPSS, R, Atlas.ti
  • Learning Management Systems: Google Classroom, Moodle
  • Video Conferencing Tools: Microsoft Teams, Zoom
  • Research Tools: Zotero, Mendeley, EndNote

📖 Publications Top Noted:

Paper Title: Effects of Digital Pedagogical Skills of Mathematics Teachers on Academic Performance
  • Authors: Dirgha Raj Joshi, Bishnu Khanal, Krishna Adhikari Adhikari
  • Journal: International Journal of Educational Reform
  • Pages: 1-24
  • Year: 2024
  • Citations: 5
Paper Title: Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on academic activities of academicians in Nepal
  • Authors: Dirgha Raj Joshi, Umesh Neupane, Jitendra K Singh, Bishnu Khanal, Shashidhar Belbase
  • Journal: Journal of Education
  • Volume: 204
  • Pages: 439–454
  • Issue: 2
  • Year: 2023
  • Citations: 5
Paper Title: Behavioral, cognitive, emotional and social engagement in mathematics learning during COVID-19 pandemic
  • Authors: Dirgha Raj Joshi, Krishna Prasad Adhikari, Bishnu Khanal, Jiban Khadka, Shashidhar Belbase
  • Journal: PLOS ONE
  • Volume: 17
  • Issue: 11
  • Year: 2022
  • Citations: 24
Paper Title: Learner-Centered Instruction: Teachers’ Practice in Online Class of Mathematics During Covid-19 Pandemic in Nepal
  • Authors: Jiban Khadka, Dirgha Raj Joshi, Krishna Adhikari, Bishnu Khanal
  • Journal: International Journal of Instruction
  • Volume: 15
  • Issue: 3 
  • Pages: 831-852
  • Year: 2022
  • Citations: 13
Paper Title: Factors associated with the problems in teaching mathematics through online mode: A context of Nepal
  • Authors: Bishnu Khanal, Dirgha Raj Joshi, Krishna Prasad Adhikari, Jiban Khadka, Aita Bishowkarma
  • Journal: International Journal of Education and Practice
  • Volume: 10
  • Issue: 3 
  • Pages: 237-254
  • Year: 2022
  • Citations: 10