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
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.
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.

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.

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.

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