I’m a PhD candidate in Educational Technology at the University of Florida. My work explores how GenAI, game-based learning, and human-centered learning technologies can support learning.

Work Areas
Research
I study the design and evaluation of AI-powered and game-based learning environments, with a focus on learning, interaction, and human-centered design.

Teaching
I design learner-centered experiences grounded in learning theory, hands-on exploration, scaffolding, and actionable feedback across face-to-face and digital environments.
Service
I contribute to educational technology through student mentorship, professional service, collaborative initiatives, and engagement with educational communities.
I’m Deniz
I’m a PhD candidate in the Educational Technology program at the University of Florida.

Work Areas
Research
I study the design and evaluation of AI-powered and game-based learning environments, with a focus on learning, interaction, and human-centered design.


Teaching
I design learner-centered experiences grounded in learning theory, hands-on exploration, scaffolding, and actionable feedback across face-to-face and digital environments.
Service
I contribute to educational technology through professional service, collaborative initiatives, and engagement with educational communities.
Mentorship
I support students in developing their research skills, academic confidence, and career goals through individualized mentorship and guidance.

About Me
My research integrates generative AI, game-based learning, HCI, and UI/UX design to create and evaluate interactive learning environments grounded in learning theories.
AUG 2026 – PRESENT
Graduate Teaching Assistant
University of Florida, School of Teaching and Learning Teaching EME 2040: Introduction to Educational Technology and EME 3813: Technology-Enhanced Learning Environments across online and face-to-face.
JUNE 2026 – PRESENT
Instructional Designer
UF E-Learning, Technology and Communications (ETC) Designing interactive and accessible professional learning experiences for K–12 educators through projects with the Florida Department of Education and Alachua County Public Schools.

About Me
My research integrates generative AI, game-based learning, HCI, and UI/UX design to create and evaluate interactive learning environments grounded in learning theories. I have contributed to the development of multiple research prototypes, including an AI-driven web-based platforms and educational games.
JAN 2024 - PRESENT
Graduate Research Assistant
Gates Foundation funded PRODUCTIVE project, led by Dr. Seyedahmad Rahimi (PI). I helped design an AI-powered math problem generator through Figma prototyping, educator-informed UX design, and iterative usability testing.
AUG 2023 - DEC 2023
Graduate Teaching Assistant
I thought EME 3813 and EME 2040, delivering modules, designing activities, and providing feedback. I also supported IDS 2935 as a third instructor, facilitating online discussions/labs and assisting with course and technical questions.
Portfolio

ProductiveMath

Gamerate

Geoquest
Academic Projects
3 projects

AI Teacher Training

Engineering Course Material Design

Elementary School Sandbox Material Design
Instructional Design
3 projects

Bloom

MathRunner

Rise
Educational Games
3 projects

Bloom

MathRunner

Rise
Educational Games
3 projects

Deniz's website

Deniz's website
I’m a PhD candidate in the Educational Technology program at the University of Florida.


Work Areas
Research
I study the design and evaluation of AI-powered and game-based learning environments, with a focus on learning, interaction, and human-centered design.
Research
I study the design and evaluation of AI-powered and game-based learning environments, with a focus on learning, interaction, and human-centered design.

Teaching
I design learner-centered experiences grounded in learning theory, hands-on exploration, scaffolding, and actionable feedback across face-to-face and digital environments.

Teaching
I design learner-centered experiences grounded in learning theory, hands-on exploration, scaffolding, and actionable feedback across face-to-face and digital environments.
Service
I contribute to educational technology through student mentorship, professional service, collaborative initiatives, and engagement with educational communities.
Service
I contribute to educational technology through student mentorship, professional service, collaborative initiatives, and engagement with educational communities.

About Me
My research integrates generative AI, game-based learning, HCI, and UI/UX design to create and evaluate interactive learning environments grounded in learning theories. I have contributed to the development of multiple research prototypes, including an AI-driven web-based platforms and educational games.

ProductiveMath

Gamerate

Geoquest
Academic Projects
3 projects

AI Teacher Training

Engineering Course Material Design

Elementary School Sandbox Material Design
Instructional Design
3 projects

Bloom

MathRunner

Rise
Educational Games
3 projects