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.

I’m Deniz or Denise,
a PhD Candidate.
I’m a PhD candidate in the Educational Technology program at the University of Florida, working in the Class Lab

My Research Areas
AI in Education
Designing and evaluating AI-powered learning tools that support teaching and strengthen students’ cognitive skills.
Human Computer Interaction
Using human-centered design, prototyping, and usability testing to build intuitive educational technologies for real users.
Instructional Design
Creating learning experiences grounded in cognitive and instructional theory to promote deeper understanding and skill development.
Game-Based Learning Design
Developing educational games that foster engagement, motivation, and learning through evidence-based game design principles.
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.
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, working in the Class Lab


My Research Areas
AI in Education
Designing and evaluating AI-powered learning tools that support teaching and strengthen students’ cognitive skills.
Human Computer Interaction
Using human-centered design, prototyping, and usability testing to build intuitive educational technologies for real users.
Instructional Design
Creating learning experiences grounded in cognitive and instructional theory to promote deeper understanding and skill development.
Game-Based Learning Design
Developing educational games that foster engagement, motivation, and learning through evidence-based game design principles.

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