Helena Novak
Professor
University College Dublin
Ireland
Biography
Elena Novak is an accomplished American academic specializing in educational technology and learning sciences. Born in the United States, she developed a passion for innovative teaching methods early in her career, blending technology with pedagogy to enhance student engagement. She earned her Ph.D. in Instructional Systems and Learning Technologies from Florida State University in 2012, following undergraduate and master's studies in related fields.
Novak joined Kent State University in Ohio as an Assistant Professor in 2012, advancing to Associate Professor and later full Professor in the School of Teaching, Learning and Curriculum Studies within the College of Education, Health and Human Services. Her research focuses on the design of digital learning environments, including video games, simulations, and 3D printing, and their impact on cognitive, affective, and motivational processes in K-12 STEM and computer science education. Funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and other agencies, her notable projects include the "Physical Science Robotics Interdisciplinary Design (PRIDe)" initiative, which promotes STEM participation through cascading peer-mentorship models connecting university labs with elementary, middle, and high school students.
Research Interest
Clinical Trials in Nutrition