Tenured Professor Rustam Shadiev

College of Education, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China

Brief introduction: Dr. Rustam Shadiev is a tenured professor at the College of Education, Zhejiang University, China, recognized for his extensive contributions to the field of educational technology. He earned his Ph.D. in Network Learning Technology from Taiwan Central University in 2012 and subsequently completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Taiwan Cheng Kung University. Prior to his appointment at Zhejiang University, he served for six years (2016–2022) as a professor in the School of Education Science at Nanjing Normal University. In 2019, his academic excellence was honored with the title of Distinguished Professor of Jiangsu Province.

Dr. Shadiev is a Fellow of the British Computer Society (BCS), a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and a member of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM). His outstanding research record has earned him consistent recognition as one of the Most Cited Chinese Researchers by Elsevier, Scopus, and Shanghai Ranking from 2020 to 2024. He has also been listed among Stanford/Elsevier' s Top 2% of Scientists globally in both 2023 and 2024.

With a publication portfolio of over 200 scholarly works in reputable journals and international conferences, Dr. Shadiev’s research primarily explores advanced educational technologies and their applications in language learning and cross-cultural education. His work has had a significant impact on educational research and practice worldwide. In addition to his research activities, Dr. Shadiev serves on the editorial boards of several leading academic journals, including Educational Technology & Society, Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, and Smart Learning Environments. He also regularly acts as a guest editor for special issues in journals such as Educational Technology & Society and Discover Education.

Title of Keynote Speech: From Connection to Comprehension: Emerging Technologies in Global Education

Abstract: This speech explores the transformative potential of emerging technologies, particularly Web 2.0, virtual reality (VR) based on 360-degree video, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and artificial intelligence (AI), in reshaping how students engage in cross-cultural learning, language acquisition, and the development of intercultural competence. A central focus will be on how these technologies connect learners from diverse regions and cultural backgrounds, enabling them to collaboratively learn and exchange culture-related knowledge. The speech will also examine how such technologies enhance language and cultural learning by providing immersive and authentic experiences that foster deeper engagement and improved learning outcomes.

Web 2.0 tools will be highlighted for their role in facilitating communication and collaboration across borders, while VR-supported environments and telecollaborative projects will be discussed in terms of their impact on developing cross-cultural understanding and shaping learners’ attitudes. In addition, the presentation will explore how these technologies stimulate creativity and innovation, competencies essential in today’s globally interconnected world. UAVs will be showcased for their unique ability to explore cultural heritage sites and artifacts, especially those that are otherwise inaccessible and require both aerial and close-range observation. Furthermore, the role of AI in fostering critical, nuanced understandings of diverse cultural contexts will be addressed. The speech will conclude by outlining future trends in educational technology, potential challenges, and the expanding role of AI in enriching global learning experiences in the digital age.

Assoc. Prof. Che Soh Bin Said

Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), Tanjung Malim, Perak, Malaysia

Brief introduction: Dr. Che Soh Said is an accomplished academic and researcher specializing in instructional technology, computing education, multimedia, virtual and augmented reality, and animation. He is currently a senior lecturer at the Faculty of Computing and Meta-Technology at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) in Tanjung Malim, Perak, Malaysia. Dr. Che Soh earned his Ph.D. in Instructional Technology with a focus on application of Virtual Reality in Science from Universiti Sains Malaysia in 2012. Prior to this, he completed his Master's degree in Computer Science at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) and a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and Education from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia.

Throughout his career, Dr. Che Soh has led and contributed to numerous research projects aimed at developing innovative educational tools and technologies. His notable projects include the development of a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC), 3D cell and anatomy visualization software, web based spatial training systems, augmented reality, video based learning and virtual reality-based learning tools. His work has been widely published in academic journals, conference and books, and he has played a significant role in supervising both Ph.D. and Master's students.

In recognition of his contributions, Dr. Che Soh has received multiple awards, including international accolades for his research in creative and humanizing technology applications. His expertise and dedication to advancing educational technology have made him a respected figure in his field. Throughout his career, he has received numerous awards, including Gold Medals for University Research Invention in 2005 and 2018,  and several Silver Medals for the Invention of Technology and Exposition I-TEX. He has also received the University Excellent Services Certification for his outstanding lecturer services from 2015 to the present.

Title of Keynote Speech: Human factor in designing an effective generative immersive multimodal learning environment

Abstract: The design of effective immersive multimodal learning environments hinges on understanding and integrating human factors into the development process. These factors, including cognitive load, metacognitive knowledge, learner motivation, emotional engagement, and social interaction, play a critical role in how learners interact with and benefit from such environments. Multimodal learning environments combine various sensory inputs such as visual, auditory, and tactile elements can create a more engaging and immersive experience. However, without careful consideration of how these elements align with human capabilities and needs, the potential for enhancing learning outcomes may not be fully realized. This presentation emphasizes the importance of a user-centered approach in designing these environments, ensuring that they are accessible, intuitive, and supportive of diverse learning styles. By addressing usability and adaptability, designers can create immersive experiences that are not only technologically sophisticated but also effective in fostering deeper learning and retention. The integration of human factors into the design process ultimately leads to more inclusive, engaging, and successful educational tools that cater to the needs of all learners.

Assoc. Prof. Heng Luo

Central China Normal University, China

Brief introduction: Luo Heng, Ph.D., Professor, Doctoral supervisor and Director of Department of Educational Technology, Department of Artificial Intelligence Education, Central China Normal University. He received his master's and doctoral degrees in Instructional Design Development Evaluation from Syracuse University. He was a research associate at the Center for Digital Education at Pennsylvania State University. He has presided over a number of national general topics of the National Education Science "13th Five-Year Plan", National Natural Science Foundation projects and Humanities and Social Science Foundation projects of the Ministry of Education. In the past five years, as the first author or corresponding author, he has published more than 50 research papers in high-level academic journals at home and abroad, such as Computers & Education, BJET, China Audio-visual Education, and Audio-Visual Education Research. He is the Chairman of the Program Committee of the 2025 CSTE International Conference, a member of the organizing Committee of the 2016-2024 International Conference on Blended Learning (ICBL), and a board member of the China-Japan-U.S. International Conference on Media Applications in Education (ICoME). He is the guest editor of SSCI/SCI international journals Frontiers in Psychology and Children. He was awarded the Outstanding Research Paper Award of the Performance Branch of the American Educational Communication and Technology (AECT) Association in 2014, the Outstanding Instructional Design Practice Award of the Design and Development Branch of AECT in 2019, and the Excellent Research Paper Award of the International Conference on Blended Learning (ICBL) in 2019, 2020 and 2022. The American Educational Research Association (AERA) Outstanding International Collaborative Research Award in 2022, the 9th Hubei Teaching Achievement Award Grand Prize and the honorary title of Guizi Young Scholar of Central China Normal University.

Title of Keynote Speech: Promoting Social Emotional Competences and Mental Wellbeing among Children and Adolescents through Digital Technologies