Institute of Learning Sciences and Technologies

"Learning Sciences - Fields and Institutes"
In the information age, characterized by rapid technological and societal changes, educational research is key to significantly contributing to the evolving world. This contribution lies in exploring the essence of learning, developing learning capabilities, and creating inspiring learning environments, all aimed at nurturing talents capable of adapting to and even leading the uncertain and ever-changing future. Learning science stands at the core of this research wave, examining the most critical human capacity for survival and prosperity—learning—and how it can shape the future through learning. Thus, building upon the theoretical foundation of learning science, this field strives to integrate discoveries from various domains, including education, psychology, information technology, management, science, and society, to explore the theoretical and practical aspects of learning. It does so while promoting innovative thinking and emerging technologies and investigating its significance within the social and human context.
Our institute comprises a total of 16 full-time faculty members (12 tenured and 4 adjuncts), covering a wide range of research topics, including digital learning and human-computer interaction design, virtual and augmented reality, STEAM education, games and animation, digital humanities, big data and data analysis, instructional strategies and curriculum design, language learning and cognitive psychology, adult and community learning, among others. From an innovative interdisciplinary perspective, we delve into the multiple universes of learning, encompassing the generation of changes in physical and virtual contexts, the dialogue between technology and the humanities, the transformation of game and curriculum models, the interpretation of data and phenomena, the dynamic networks of individuals and groups, the translation of concepts in content and design, the transfer of knowledge between academia and practice, and the reciprocal relationship between teaching and learning.
Through these explorations of learning, our institute aims to cultivate students' abilities in conducting high-quality academic research and advancing practical research and development. Our approach centers on principles and processes such as inquiry-based knowledge construction, reflective practice, exploration of the unknown, and creation of new knowledge. We emphasize deepening theoretical understanding, leveraging technology effectively, transcending disciplinary boundaries, and applying knowledge to practical settings. Our vision is to use learning research to change the current state and create the future. We hope to equip the 24 master's students we admit annually with the expertise to possess future-ready learning competencies, enabling them to become learning scientists capable of perceiving learning needs, analyzing learning phenomena, driving learning transformation, unlocking learning potential, and creating infinite possibilities in the fields of academia, schools, industry, and beyond.