Dr. Katarzyna Piechota | Physical Culture Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Katarzyna Piechota | Physical Culture Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Katarzyna Piechota | Physical Culture Sciences – Assistant professor at University of Technology in Opole, Poland

Dr. Katarzyna Piechota is an esteemed researcher and academic in the field of physical culture sciences. She holds a doctoral degree in Physical Culture Sciences and has established herself as an expert in areas including neuromuscular coordination, motor skills, and sports performance, especially focusing on biomechanics and electromyography (EMG). With a career spanning multiple years, Dr. Piechota has made significant contributions to sports science, particularly in the areas of athletic performance and rehabilitation. Her work examines muscle activation and movement patterns in various sports, such as athletics and wheelchair fencing, leading to deeper insights into neuromuscular coordination and performance enhancement.

Profile:

Orcid | Scopus | Google Scholar

Education:

Dr. Piechota earned her doctorate in Physical Culture Sciences from AWF Warsaw in 2016, following a comprehensive academic journey that began with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Physical Education from Opole University of Technology. Her Master’s thesis focused on athletic training and movement patterns in long and middle-distance runners, while her doctoral dissertation delved into the relationship between motor preparation and the EMG activity of upper and lower limb muscles during short-course running. Dr. Piechota’s educational path reflects her commitment to understanding human movement from both a practical and scientific perspective, and her qualifications in areas like physical education, corrective gymnastics, and athletics training showcase her versatility and depth in the field.

Experience:

Dr. Piechota’s professional experience spans multiple roles in academia, primarily as an assistant professor at Opole University of Technology. She has worked in various departments, including Physical Education and Sport, Human Motor Skills, and Anthropomotorics, where she has contributed to both teaching and research. Over the years, she has gained substantial expertise in physical education, coaching, and performance analysis. Her extensive experience in the classroom and laboratory setting, combined with her work at scientific conferences, highlights her commitment to furthering both the academic and practical aspects of physical education. Her position as an assistant professor has allowed her to mentor students and collaborate on groundbreaking research, influencing the future of sports science and rehabilitation.

Research Interests:

Dr. Piechota’s primary research interests focus on the application of biomechanics and neuromuscular coordination in sports performance. She has a particular focus on understanding muscle activation patterns through the use of surface electromyography (sEMG) and how these patterns influence athletic performance and injury prevention. She is especially interested in the way physical preparation and movement mechanics impact sprinting, wheelchair fencing, and sports in people with disabilities. Her research bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, offering insights that are used to enhance training regimens, improve athlete performance, and prevent injury in both able-bodied and disabled athletes.

Dr. Piechota has also studied the impact of aerobic and anaerobic training on athletes, including elite-level Olympic short-track speed skaters, and her interest in sports rehabilitation has made her work influential in the context of post-injury recovery. Through her research, Dr. Piechota aims to improve understanding of how sports training and rehabilitation protocols can be optimized for better athletic performance across various populations.

Awards:

While Dr. Piechota has not yet received formal awards like the Best Researcher Award, her academic and research accomplishments have placed her on the radar for such recognition. Her groundbreaking work in neuromuscular coordination and performance analysis in sports has been widely cited in research circles. She continues to gain recognition for her contributions, particularly in the field of electromyography, sports biomechanics, and sports rehabilitation. Dr. Piechota’s active participation in international conferences and her collaboration with global researchers are further testament to her growing influence and recognition within the sports science community.

Publications:

Dr. Piechota’s research has been widely published in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals, contributing significantly to the field of sports science. Some of her most notable works include:

  1. Borysiuk, Z., Błaszczyszyn, M., Piechota, K., Abkas, A. (2025). Are technical performance differences in wheelchair fencing linked to disability categories? BMC Sports Science Medicine and Rehabilitation, vol. 17, article 23. [Cited by 15]
  2. Piechota, K., Borysiuk, Z., Zmarzły, D., Jonek, M., Majorczyk, E. (2024). Expert and novice soccer goalkeepers’ visual perception: a practical-coaching approach eye-tracking. International Journal of Performance Analysis in Sport. [Cited by 12]
  3. Piechota, K., Majorczyk, E. (2023). Decision-Making Time and Neuromuscular Coordination in Youth and Senior Soccer Goalkeepers. Sensors, 23(9):4483. [Cited by 10]
  4. Borysiuk, Z., Blaszczyszyn, M., Piechota, K., Konieczny, M., Cynarski, W.J. (2023). Correlations between the EMG Structure of Movement Patterns and Activity of Postural Muscles in Able-Bodied and Wheelchair Fencers. Sensors, 23, 135. [Cited by 8]
  5. Migała, M., Płonka-Syroka, B., Rasławska, K., Skolik, B., Spielvogel, I., Piechota, K., Hołodnik, D. (2022). Analysis of the experiences of patients in the rehabilitation period related to the COVID-19 disease. Research Square (pre-print). [Cited by 6]
  6. Borysiuk, Z., Błaszczyszyn, B., Piechota, K., Nowicki, T. (2022). Movement patterns of Polish National Paralympic Team wheelchair fencers with regard to muscle activity and co-activation time. Journal of Human Kinetics. [Cited by 9]
  7. Lukanowa-Jakubowska, A., Piechota, K., Grzywacz, T., Ambroży, T., Rydzik, Ł., Ozimek, M. (2022). The impact of four high-altitude training camps on the aerobic capacity of a short track Olympian – a case study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. [Cited by 7]

Conclusion:

Dr. Katarzyna Piechota’s career is marked by significant academic and professional achievements that have contributed meaningfully to the field of sports science. With a solid foundation in both practical application and theoretical research, she has gained recognition for her pioneering work in neuromuscular coordination and performance analysis in various sports disciplines. Her publications in high-impact journals and active role in international conferences have helped to shape the future of sports biomechanics and rehabilitation.

 

 

 

Xiaotian Han | Education | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Xiaotian Han | Education | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Xiaotian Han | Education – Associate professor at Shanghai Normal University Tianhua College, China

Dr. Xiaotian Han is an Associate Professor at the School of Education, Shanghai Normal University Tianhua College, specializing in education, information technologies, and teacher education. With a Doctorate in Education from the University of the Pacific, his research contributions have consistently focused on exploring innovative approaches to enhance educational practices. His work on blended learning, teacher induction programs, and the application of artificial intelligence in education stands out, positioning him as a leader in his field. Dr. Han has been actively involved in both teaching and research, aiming to create practical solutions that can be applied across educational systems. Over the years, he has worked tirelessly to bridge the gap between theory and practice, bringing value to educational research both in China and internationally.

Profile:

Scopus

Education:

Dr. Han’s educational journey began with his undergraduate degree in Tourism Management from Shanghai Normal University Tianhua College, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in 2013. His passion for education led him to pursue a Master of Arts in Education with a focus on Curriculum and Instruction from the University of the Pacific, where he graduated with honors in 2015. He later pursued a Doctorate in Education from the same institution, specializing in Curriculum and Instruction, completing it in 2019 with a remarkable GPA of 3.86/4. His dissertation, which focused on teacher induction programs, laid the foundation for his subsequent research on teacher self-efficacy and retention. Dr. Han’s education has equipped him with both the theoretical understanding and practical skills necessary for his successful academic career.

Experience:

Dr. Han has a diverse and extensive teaching experience. He has worked as an Associate Professor at Shanghai Normal University Tianhua College since 2019, where he teaches courses in curriculum and instruction, and elementary social studies. Prior to his academic career in China, Dr. Han gained valuable experience in the United States, working as a Math Specialist and AVID Program Coordinator at Lodi Unified School District, where he designed and delivered lessons for middle school students. He also worked as a graduate assistant at the University of the Pacific, where he collected and analyzed data for various academic projects. These roles have allowed Dr. Han to combine his passion for teaching with a strong emphasis on research, benefiting students in both K-12 and higher education.

Research Interests:

Dr. Han’s research primarily revolves around the intersection of education and technology, particularly in the fields of blended learning, teacher education, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into education. His research has sought to understand how new educational technologies can enhance learning outcomes, foster student engagement, and support teacher development. Dr. Han is especially interested in the effectiveness of blended learning environments and their role in improving academic motivation and performance in higher education. Additionally, he has explored the current trends and future directions of generative AI in education, aiming to identify how AI can reshape traditional teaching methods and improve student learning experiences.

Awards:

Dr. Han’s commitment to excellence in education and research has earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. Some of his notable awards include the “Outstanding Graduates of Shanghai” award in 2013, recognizing his leadership, academic achievements, and contributions to community service. Additionally, he received the “Project Teach Scholarship” at the University of the Pacific for his strong academic performance and contributions to K-12 education from 2014 to 2018. His dedication to furthering education and his leadership in research projects have made him a respected figure within the academic community.

Publications 📚:

Dr. Han’s scholarly work has been widely recognized, with multiple published articles in high-impact journals. Here are some of his key publications:

  1. Han, X. (2024a). Associations between effectiveness of blended learning, student engagement, student learning outcomes, and student academic motivation in higher education. Education and Information Technologies (SSCI, IF=4.8).
    This article explores the relationship between blended learning and various student outcomes, providing valuable insights for educators aiming to enhance student engagement.
  2. Han, X. (2024b). Generative artificial intelligence for future education: Current research status, hotspots, and research trends. Proceedings of 2024 8th International Conference on Algorithms, Computing and Systems (EI Compendex).
    Dr. Han delves into the transformative potential of AI in education, identifying key trends and research opportunities.
  3. Han, X. (2023a). Evaluating blended learning effectiveness: An empirical study from undergraduates’ perspectives using structural equation modeling. Frontiers in Psychology (SSCI, IF=3.8).
    This research presents an empirical analysis of blended learning, offering insights into how this model can improve learning experiences at the undergraduate level.
  4. Han, X. (2023b). Associations between the helpfulness of teacher induction programs, teacher self-efficacy, and anticipated first-year teacher retention. Frontiers in Psychology (SSCI, IF=3.8).
    This study emphasizes the importance of effective teacher induction programs in enhancing teacher retention rates and self-efficacy.
  5. Han, Y., & Han, X. (2023). Research on the relationship between classroom engagement and creativity of students of elementary education major. Research on Modern Basic Education (ISBN: 9787572007125).
    This publication explores the connection between classroom engagement and creativity, shedding light on how to foster creative thinking in future educators.

Conclusion:

Dr. Xiaotian Han is a distinguished academic whose research has significantly contributed to the fields of educational technology and teacher education. His work on blended learning, AI in education, and teacher development provides valuable insights that can help shape the future of education globally. His dedication to teaching, coupled with his impressive research record, positions him as a highly deserving candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” Dr. Han’s ability to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical application demonstrates his commitment to improving educational practices. With a track record of impactful publications, awards, and leadership in research projects, Dr. Han continues to inspire both his students and fellow researchers to strive for excellence in the field of education.

Zerrin Toker | Education | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zerrin Toker | Education | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zerrin Toker | Education – Assoc. Prof. Doctor at Ted University, Turkey

 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zerrin Toker is an accomplished academic and researcher specializing in mathematics education, with a particular focus on teacher development and reflective practices. She has significantly contributed to the field through her work in designing instructional programs for mathematics teachers, curriculum development, and her extensive research on the professional growth of pre-service and in-service educators. Her expertise has been recognized both nationally and internationally, with her research published in several prestigious academic journals. Over the years, Dr. Toker has also taken on several leadership roles at academic institutions, guiding initiatives to enhance the quality of education in mathematics. Her dedication to transforming teaching practices, advancing educational policies, and mentoring future educators has had a profound impact on the academic community.

Profile:

Scopus

Education:

Dr. Toker’s educational background is rooted in mathematics education. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Middle East Technical University (METU), where she also pursued her Master’s and Doctoral degrees in the same field. Her Ph.D. research focused on preservice mathematics teachers’ reflective practices in teaching and learning. Through her studies, she has gained a deep understanding of how students and teachers develop their mathematical thinking, which has shaped much of her career. This academic foundation, along with her commitment to continuous learning, has propelled her to become an influential figure in the field of mathematics education.

Experience:

Dr. Toker’s professional journey spans over two decades, beginning as a mathematics teacher, where she developed valuable insights into the challenges of classroom teaching. She served as the head of the mathematics department and professional development coordinator for several years, further establishing her leadership in shaping educational practices. Dr. Toker has also worked as an instructor at various universities, where she taught courses in mathematics education and mentoring programs for pre-service teachers. She has contributed significantly to curriculum development, particularly in designing textbooks used across elementary schools in Turkey. Her experience in these areas has allowed her to effectively integrate theoretical research with practical application, benefiting both teachers and students.

Research Interests:

Dr. Toker’s research interests lie in several key areas: the development of mathematical thought, conceptual learning, teacher training, and curriculum development. Her focus on reflective thinking practices, both in pre-service and in-service teachers, is central to her work, as she believes that reflective practitioners are better equipped to handle the dynamic challenges of teaching. She is also interested in design-based research, which allows educators to create solutions rooted in real-world classroom settings. Dr. Toker’s interest in interdisciplinary learning, differentiated instruction, and data-driven instructional design showcases her dedication to enhancing student outcomes and improving teaching methodologies.

Awards:

Dr. Toker has earned significant recognition for her contributions to mathematics education. Her work has been acknowledged through various awards and appointments, including leadership roles in accreditation commissions, curriculum development teams, and educational policy committees. These roles have allowed her to influence the broader educational landscape, ensuring that her research and teaching practices contribute meaningfully to improving the quality of mathematics education. She has also been nominated for the Best Researcher Award due to her impactful research and leadership in the field.

Publications:

  1. A bibliometric review of studies on mathematics teacher professional development with an emphasis on mathematics coaching research
    Journal: Journal of Mathematics Teacher Education (2024) 📘
    Cited by: This article offers insights into professional development strategies for mathematics educators and the role of coaching.
  2. Analysis of distractors in mathematics questions and their potential to lead to misconceptions
    Journal: Thinking Skills and Creativity (2024) 📝
    Cited by: The study identifies how question design in mathematics assessments can lead to student misconceptions, influencing instructional practices.
  3. Teachers’ Reflective Thoughts and Perceptions About Change in the Process of Adaptation to the International Curriculum
    Journal: Education and Science (2021) 📚
    Cited by: The paper explores the challenges and reflections of teachers adapting to international curricula, highlighting issues of curriculum reform.
  4. Preservice teachers’ reflections on learning number bases and teaching base ten
    Journal: International Journal of Research in Education and Science (2023) ✏️
    Cited by: This article presents preservice teachers’ insights into their understanding of number systems, a core concept in mathematics education.
  5. A Professional Development Model Proposal Including Lesson Supervision Practices: School-Based Reflective Mathematics Coaching
    Journal: Milli Eğitim (2023) 🔍
    Cited by: The paper proposes a professional development model focused on reflective teaching practices for mathematics educators.
  6. Identifying the presence of context and item-writing flaws in practice items: The case of Turkish mathematics textbooks
    Journal: International Journal of Assessment Tools in Education (2022) 📏
    Cited by: A critical analysis of flaws in Turkish mathematics textbooks, aiming to improve assessment quality.
  7. In-service Teachers’ Opinions about the Use of Video-based Self-reflection for Pedagogical Development
    Journal: Kuramsal Eğitimbilim Dergisi (2022) 🎥
    Cited by: This article discusses how video-based reflection can enhance teachers’ pedagogical practices.

Conclusion:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zerrin Toker’s body of work is a testament to her dedication to improving mathematics education at all levels. Through her leadership, research, and publications, she has had a lasting influence on teacher development, curriculum design, and instructional methodologies. Her ability to blend theoretical insights with practical applications in education makes her a distinguished researcher in her field. As a nominee for the Best Researcher Award, Dr. Toker stands out not only for her scholarly contributions but also for her ongoing commitment to the professional growth of educators and the transformation of mathematics teaching practices worldwide.