Dr. Elena Novak

Elena Novak is an Associate Professor of Educational Technology at Kent State University. She earned her Ph.D. in Instructional Systems and Learning Technologies from Florida State University in 2012. Dr. Novak’s research focuses on the integration of emerging learning technologies and innovative pedagogical methods primarily in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computer science (STEM+CS) education. She develops and evaluates educational interventions that integrate leading-edge learning technologies such as social robotics, AI, 3D printing and immersive 3D modeling, and video games across a range of educational settings, including teacher training, K-12, and higher education. She is particularly interested in creating technology-supported learning experiences that actively engage learners in design thinking and creativity to facilitate deep learning, interest, and engagement. In addition, she investigates how the design of digital learning environments impacts cognitive, affective, and motivational processes that enhance learning and human performance. Dr. Novak’s research has been funded by federal, state, and private agencies to support K-12 STEM+CS education and teacher professional development. Her recent NSF project, “Physical Science Robotics Interdisciplinary Design (PRIDe) in Computer Science Education: Broadening Participation in STEM through Cascading Peer-Mentorship” focuses on designing, implementing, supporting teachers with computer science and science professional development, and evaluating a cascading peer-mentoring model that connects high school, middle, and elementary school students with a university computer science research lab. Dr. Novak’s research has been recognized with several international awards sponsored by the American Educational Research Association as well as Association for Educational Communications and Technology. She has published in leading peer-reviewed international journals, such as Computers & Education, Computers in Human Behavior, The Internet & Higher Education, Educational Technology Research & Development, and British Journal of Educational Technology.