Mr. José Cidade | Education | Best Researcher Award

Mr. José Cidade | Education | Best Researcher Award

CIIE - Center for Educational Research and Intervention, Portugal.

José Manuel Cidade Filipe da Silva is a dedicated PhD Fellow at the Centre for Research and Intervention in Education (CIIE), University of Porto. As a doctoral candidate in the Doctoral Program in Education Sciences at the Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences (FPCEUP), he is currently supported by a PhD Scholarship from the National Public Agency for Science, Technology, and Innovation (FCT, IP). José holds a graduate degree in Music Conducting and a Master’s in Ensemble Music Teaching, blending his academic expertise with a passion for musical performance, including choral and orchestral conducting and wind band music. His research highlights the role of civil wind bands in non-formal education, contributing significantly to the field of educational sciences.

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Education 🎓

José Manuel Cidade Filipe da Silva's academic journey began with a graduate degree in Music Conducting, followed by a Master’s in Ensemble Music Teaching, both of which solidified his understanding of music and its pedagogical applications. Currently pursuing his PhD in Education Sciences at University of Porto, he is part of a dynamic research environment focused on advancing knowledge in non-formal and informal education.

Experience 💼

José has significant experience in both academic research and musical practice. Alongside his doctoral studies, he has been actively engaged in music performance, particularly in choral and orchestral conducting. His musical journey also includes performing as a wind band musician. José has participated in several national and international scientific events, contributing to discussions and advancements in music education. His broad involvement in both academia and performance has enriched his understanding of music’s role in community development and lifelong learning.

Research Interests 🔬

José’s research primarily focuses on the educational role of civil wind bands within non-formal and informal education. He explores how these musical communities provide an alternative form of learning outside traditional school settings.

Lifelong Learning and Cultural Enrichment

One of the key aspects of his research is understanding how civil wind bands contribute to lifelong learning. José is particularly interested in how participation in these bands encourages personal development, cultural exchange, and skill-building over time, regardless of the participants' age or background.

Social Cohesion through Music

José’s work also delves into how wind bands foster social cohesion. He examines the role these musical groups play in bringing diverse community members together, promoting inclusivity, and strengthening social bonds through shared musical experiences.

Perceptions of Educational Experiences

His research investigates how participants in civil wind bands perceive their educational experiences. By analyzing their reflections and feedback, José seeks to understand the transformative impacts of participating in these bands, including enhanced self-expression and the development of soft skills.

Impact on Local Cultural Ecologies and Community Engagement

José's research emphasizes how these bands influence local cultural ecologies. By looking at the long-term effects of wind band participation, he explores how these groups contribute to preserving local musical traditions while fostering a sense of community engagement.

Development of Skills in Non-Traditional Learning Environments

Finally, his work highlights the skill development that occurs within civil wind bands, especially in non-traditional learning environments. José studies how these communities serve as spaces for artistic expression, personal growth, and the acquisition of both musical and life skills, all outside the formal education system.

Awards 🏆

PhD Scholarship: Received from the National Public Agency for Science, Technology and Innovation (FCT, IP), recognizing his exceptional academic potential.

National and International Recognition: Acknowledged for his research in music education at various scientific events.

Publications: His work has been published and cited in national and international journals, contributing significantly to the field of non-formal education and music.

Academic Contribution: José’s research on the educational impact of civil wind bands has garnered attention for its potential to enrich community engagement and lifelong learning.

Selected Publications 📖

Motivation for Participation in Civil Wind Bands: Contributions for Non-Formal Educational Contexts

Journal: Education Sciences, 2025-02-02

Civil Wind Bands Beyond Music Education: A Scoping Review (2010-2021)

Journal: RECIEM, 2024-10-11

Portuguese Wind Bands: Sketching Their Socio-Educational Profiles

Conference: 27th International Wind Music Conference, 2024-07-01

Portuguese Civil Wind Bands: An Approach to Their Educational Values

Conference: 4ª Conferência Internacional Emoções, Artes e Intervenção, 2024-04-19

 

 

 

Dr. Sofia Morgado | Science Education | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sofia Morgado | Science Education | Best Researcher Award

University of Minho, Portugal.

Prof. Sofia Fernandes Morgado is an expert in Science Education, specializing in contextualized learning and problem-based teaching methods. She has contributed significantly to teacher training, curriculum development, and educational research. With a strong academic background and extensive project leadership experience, she plays a crucial role in advancing science and geography education through innovative methodologies.

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Education 🎓

Prof. Sofia Fernandes Morgado holds a PhD in Science Education from the Universidade do Minho, Portugal (2024), where she focused on Teaching for Contextualized Learning of 'Sound and Light'. Her doctoral research aimed to explore innovative teaching approaches that connect scientific concepts with real-world contexts. Prior to her PhD, she completed her MA in Science Education at the same institution in 2013, with a thesis on Problem-Based Learning in Science and Geography Teacher Education, examining how problem-solving methodologies can enhance teacher education programs. She also earned her Degree in Physics and Chemistry Teaching from the Universidade do Minho in 2008, laying a solid foundation in the scientific and educational fields.

Experience 💼

Prof. Sofia Fernandes Morgado currently serves as the Director & Researcher at the Universidade do Minho, where she leads impactful research in science education and pedagogical innovation. In addition to her academic role, she has been working as a Support Specialist for the Quality Education for All Project in Guinea-Bissau since 2022, contributing her expertise to curriculum reform initiatives. From 2016 to 2022, she also held the position of Technical & Scientific Advisor for the Basic Education Curriculum Reform in Guinea-Bissau, where she played a key role in shaping educational policies and improving teacher training. Prof. Morgado's earlier career includes being a Research Fellow on various projects focused on science education and problem-based learning, particularly in enhancing teacher education programs and fostering contextualized learning from 2010 to 2021.

Research Interests 🔬

Science Education & Pedagogy – Enhancing problem-solving and contextual learning

Teacher Training & Curriculum Development – Improving STEM education methodologies

Sustainability in Education – Developing eco-conscious teaching frameworks

Educational Technologies – Integrating digital tools for interactive learning

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Recognized for Excellence in Science Education Research

Research Fellowships funded by Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia, Portugal

Active member of the Portuguese Association of Science Education (APEduC)

Selected Publications 📚

Teaching for the Contextualised Learning of Science: A Checklist-Based Science Curriculum Analysis
Authors: Morgado, S.; Leite, L.; Dourado, L.
Journal: Journal of Turkish Science Education (2022)
Volume: 19(4), Pages: 1072–1095
Citations: 3

Teacher Education and Popular Culture: Proverbs about the Climate and Weather
Authors: Leite, L.; Dourado, L.; Morgado, S.; Antunes, M.C.
Journal: Journal of Turkish Science Education (2019)
Volume: 16(1),Pages: 1–17
Citations: 6
Teaching Science in the Laboratory: A Study on Portuguese School Science Teachers’ Perspectives
Authors: Dourado, L.; Leite, L.; Morgado, S.
Journal: Turkish Online Journal of Educational Technology (2017)
Volume: 2017(December Special Issue INTE)
Pages: 54–65
In-Service Science Teacher Education in Portugal: An Analysis of the Short Courses Available
Authors: Dourado, L.; Leite, L.; Morgado, S.
Journal: Turkish Online Journal of Educational Technology (2017)
Volume: 2017(November Special Issue INTE)
Pages: 1065–1076
Learning About Safety, Prevention, and Quality of Life Through PBL: Implications for Teacher Education
Authors: Leite, L.; Dourado, L.; Morgado, S.; Vale, M.; Madureira, C.
Journal: Turkish Online Journal of Educational Technology (2017)
Volume: 2017(November Special Issue INTE)
Pages: 375–386

 

Dr. Hengameh Karimi | Educational Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hengameh Karimi | Educational Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Oxford Business College/University of West London, United Kingdom.

Dr. Hengameh Karimi is a dedicated academic and researcher specializing in educational leadership, school improvement, and digital transformation in higher education. With extensive experience in programme coordination, student support, and academic administration, she has played a crucial role in shaping educational policies and improving institutional practices. Currently serving as a Senior Researcher at Oxford Business College, Dr. Karimi’s work focuses on enhancing leadership effectiveness and educational methodologies to drive academic success.

Profile

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Education 🎓

Dr. Hengameh Karimi holds a PhD in Educational Leadership & School Improvement from the University of West London (2018-2024), where her research explores the relationship between educational leadership and school improvement before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in London primary schools. Her doctoral work is supervised by Prof. Maddie Ohl, Dr. Viktoria Magne, and Dr. Manzoorul Abedin.

Prior to her PhD, she earned a PGCE in Post-Compulsory Education from the University of Greenwich (2017-2018), equipping her with advanced teaching methodologies. She also holds an MA in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) from the University of Westminster (2016-2017), reflecting her expertise in language education. Dr. Karimi completed her BA Hons in English Language (2:1) at Middlesex University (2012-2015), laying the foundation for her academic career. Additionally, she holds A-Levels and GCSEs, including Chemistry, Biology, Geography, and Arabic, from Nizam College and UK-based qualifications (2006).

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Hengameh Karimi has a wealth of experience in academic administration and research, with her current role as a Senior Researcher at Oxford Business College since January 2024. In this position, she conducts in-depth research on educational leadership and student development, focusing on evidence-based strategies to drive academic improvement. Prior to this, Dr. Karimi served as an Academic Programme Coordinator & Lecturer at Oxford Business College (June 2020 – December 2023), where she played a key role in managing undergraduate programme administration, coordinating coursework, and developing student engagement strategies to enhance the overall learning experience.

Her prior academic roles further showcase her expertise in supporting students’ academic success. As an Academic Skills Lecturer at the University of West London (May 2019 – May 2020), Dr. Karimi provided tailored academic support to international students, guiding them in adapting to UK academic standards and improving essential skills such as academic writing and critical thinking. She also worked as an EAP Teaching Fellow at Queen Mary University of London (Aug 2019 – June 2020), focusing on English for Academic Purposes (EAP), where she helped students integrate into the academic environment and achieve success in their studies.

Research Interests 🔬

Educational Leadership & School Improvement 📚

Digital Transformation in Higher Education 💻

AI in Education & Teaching Methodologies 🤖

Faculty Development & Student Engagement 🎓

Workforce Productivity & Leadership Practices 👩‍🏫

Awards & Recognitions 🏆

Young Researcher Award for Educational Leadership (2023)

Innovation in Higher Education Research Honor (2024)

Best Paper Award – AI in Higher Education (2024)

Selected Publications 📄

Faculty Development Interventions in Medical Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review
Journal: Education Sciences
Published: 2025-02-03
Contributors: Hengameh Karimi, Sarwar Khawaja

Post-COVID Educational Leadership: Emerging Models and Styles for a New Era
Journal: International Journal of Innovative Research and Scientific Studies
Published: 2025-01-31
Contributors: Hengameh Karimi, Sarwar Khawaja

Exploring Factors Influencing Work Productivity: A Qualitative Case Study of Employee Motivation and Leadership Practices
Journal: Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology
Published: 2024
Contributors: Khawaja, S.; Karimi, H.

Post-COVID Educational Leadership: Emerging Models and Styles for a New Era
Platform: Research Square
Published: 2024
Contributors: Khawaja, S.; Karimi, H.

Exploring the Relationship Between Educational Leadership and School Improvement
Platform: ScienceOpen Posters
Published: 2024-01
Contributors: Hengameh Karimi