What are you currently researching?
My current research topics include digital cheating in learning, print vs. digital reading comprehension, digital literacy skills, cognitive, social, pedagogical and emotional aspects of distance learning, editing text in print vs digital formats, and non-linear learning in hypermedia environments.
How did you become involved in your research field?For over a decade, I was the chief scientist in an Israeli-American company that developed computer-based learning environments (e.g. simulations, data bases, tutorials and games) for American and Israeli schools. This experience led me to the field of researching technology and learning.
What inspired you to become a researcher?Of course, my love for technologies, but mainly, curiosity regarding the effect of technologies on human learning and behavior.
Which of your research findings would you like to highlight?The model I developed for digital literacy, which describes human thinking in the digital era through six thinking skills. I also ran a series of studies that showed changes over time in digital literacy skills, and studies that showed differences in digital literacy between learners of different age-groups.
How does your research link to the challenges of today?All of my studies are based on real-life challenges that learners and digital users face, such as mastering digital literacy skills, designing effective online learning environments, integrating technology into learning, reading from digital displays, and coping with digital academic dishonesty in schools and in academia.
What excites you regarding your research field?In my diverse research topics, I am very interested in the interplay between man and technology. And as a humanist, who has been researching this question for many years, I am always thrilled to discover that despite the advanced technologies that we use for teaching, learning and social communication, man has not lost his centrality in the world.