Mete Akcaoglu, Ph.D.

Professor, Instructional Technology · Department Chair, Leadership, Technology, and Human Development · Georgia Southern University, College of Education · Savannah, GA 31419

📞 912.478.0002 · makcaoglu@georgiasouthern.edu · meteakcaoglu.com

Education

Aug 2013
Ph.D., Educational Psychology & Educational Technology Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI Dissertation: Cognitive and Motivational Impacts of Learning Game Design. Director: Dr. Matthew J. Koehler
June 2008
M.A., Foreign Language Education Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey Thesis: Exploring technology integration in English language teaching
June 2003
B.A., Foreign Language Education Boğaziçi University, Istanbul, Turkey

Academic Experience

Aug 2022–Present
Professor, Instructional Technology Georgia Southern University, College of Education
Aug 2018–July 2022
Associate Professor, Instructional Technology Georgia Southern University, College of Education
Aug 2014–July 2018
Assistant Professor, Instructional Technology Georgia Southern University, College of Education
Aug 2013–May 2014
Assistant Professor, Instructional Design and Technology West Virginia University, College of Education and Human Services

Leadership Experience

Fall 2024–Present
Department Chair – Leadership Technology and Human Development Georgia Southern University Overseeing 20 full-time and ~20 part-time faculty, 10 graduate programs, and ~600 students. Leadership focuses on faculty development, culture, strategic enrollment management, curriculum reform, and long-term departmental strength.
  • Accreditation & Quality: Supported CAEP accreditation (Counselor Ed); leading NASP readiness for School Psychology
  • Enrollment: Maintained and grown enrollment (~600 students); designed R Shiny enrollment dashboard for data-informed planning
  • Curriculum: Led credit hour reductions in MED Higher Ed and ITEC (36→30 hours); created Tier 2 Ed. Leadership certificate
  • Faculty: Led 7 successful hires; redesigned annual review process with rubric-based evaluation system
  • Operations: Manage $25,000 annual discretionary budget; coordinate teaching loads across 20 faculty
  • Strategic: Co-leading development of practitioner-focused COE magazine (est. Spring 2027)
Oct 2023–July 2024
Provost Faculty Fellow Institute for Innovative and Integrated Studies, Georgia Southern University
  • Curriculum and assessment redesign for BIS program; developed IDS 2111 and IDS 4111 online courses
Aug 2018–Jan 2024
Program Director – Instructional Technology Programs Georgia Southern University
  • Accreditation reporting, enrollment management, program and course revisions, student advising
Jan 2016–Aug 2021
Founder & Co-Director, Innovation Studio Georgia Southern University
  • Secured ~$250,000 to build interdisciplinary makerspace; launched programming for university and K-12 communities
2007, 2009
Dean of Residential Life Center for Talented Youth Summer Camp, Johns Hopkins University (Thousand Oaks, CA; Bethlehem, PA)
  • Supervised residential staff, managed camp operations, liaison to students and families

Research

Research Interests & Skills

  • Research focus: Design and evaluation of technology-rich learning environments for developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and STEM interest in K-12 learners. Particular emphasis on game-design as a scaffold for computational thinking and interest development.

  • Computational & Data Analysis: R (tidyverse, ggplot2, Shiny), text mining, network analysis, machine learning, LLM-assisted research workflows, reproducible research (GitHub, Quarto)

  • Research Design & Methods: Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods educational research; survey instrument design and validation; experimental and quasi-experimental designs

  • Google Scholar: h-index 27 · 4,488 citations

Peer-Reviewed Journal Articles

* publications with graduate student co-authors

  1. Akcaoglu, M. & Ocak, C. (under review). Capturing Interest Development in Online Teacher Education: Retrospective Pretests and LLM Text Analysis.
  2. Staudt Willet, B.K., Bai, C., Hur, J., & Akcaoglu, M. (accepted). Structure and content of interactions: Social presence in asynchronous online whole-class vs. small-group discussions. The International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning.
  3. Akcaoglu, M.O., Mor, E., Akcaoglu, M.*, Coşkun, B.K., & Külekçi, E. (accepted). Adaptation and validation of the Turkish version of the online learning readiness self-check survey. American Journal of Distance Education. https://doi.org/10.1080/08923647.2026.2631259
  4. *Ozcan, M.S. & Akcaoglu, M. (2026). Development and validation of the multidimensional interest development survey (MIS). Journal of Psychoeducational Assessment, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.1177/07342829261440809
  5. Flanigan, A. E., Brady, A. C., Akcaoglu, M., Dai, Y.*, Won, S., Daleiden, B.*, & Hartley, K. (2025). The interplay among digital distraction, self-regulation of learning tendencies, and motivational influences: A transnational investigation. The Internet and Higher Education. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.iheduc.2025.101023
  6. Ocak, C. & Akcaoglu, M. (2025). In-service teachers’ perceptions of CS teaching with Scratch: Expanding affordances and uses across disciplines in K-12. Computers in the Schools. https://doi.org/10.1080/07380569.2025.2544052
  7. Hava, K. & Akcaoglu, M. (2025). Simple but effective: Using reflections to improve preservice teachers’ utility value to teach with game-design. Journal of Teacher Education and Educators, 14(1), 79–97. https://doi.org/10.30828/real.1576742
  8. Gümüş, S., Akcaoglu, M., McBrayer, J., & Belova, X. (2025). Virtual professional development for school leadership: Designing and testing a practical web-based simulation for classroom observation. Research in Educational Administration and Leadership. https://doi.org/10.30828/real.1576742
  9. Dogan, S. & Akcaoglu, M. (2024). How teachers from underrepresented schools experienced a blended professional development program on computer science and game-design. Teacher Education Quarterly, 51(1), 76–103.
  10. *Akcaoglu, M., Ozcan, M.S.*, & Dogan, S. (2023). What keeps teachers engaged during professional development? The role of interest development. Education Sciences, 13(2), 188. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci13020188
  11. *Akcaoglu, M., Ozcan, M.S.*, & Hodges, C.B. (2023). Exploring the relationship among motivational constructs and preservice teachers’ use of computational thinking in classrooms. Computers in the Schools. https://doi.org/10.1080/07380569.2023.2172987
  12. Akcaoglu, M., Dogan, S., & Hodges, C.B. (2022). Real coding and real games: Design and development of a middle school curriculum using Unity 3D. TechTrends. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11528-022-00782-1
  13. *Cain, E.J., Akcaoglu, M., Wright, K., Dobson, A., & Elkins, T. (2022). “I’ve always loved science”: A qualitative exploration of rural college students’ STEM interest development and maintenance. Journal for STEM Education Research. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41979-022-00072-8
  14. *Flanigan, A.E., Akcaoglu, M., & Ray, E. (2022). Initiating and maintaining student-instructor rapport in online classes. The Internet and Higher Education, 53. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.iheduc.2021.100844
  15. Akcaoglu, M. & Akcaoglu, M.O. (2022). Understanding the relationship among self-efficacy, utility value, and the Community of Inquiry Framework in preservice teacher education. The International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning, 23(2), 86–106. https://doi.org/10.19173/irrodl.v23i1.5717
  16. Akcaoglu, M., Rosenberg, J.M., Hodges, C.B., & Hilpert, J. (2021). An exploration of factors impacting middle school students’ attitudes toward computer programming. Computers in the Schools, 38(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/07380569.2021.1882209
  17. *Akcaoglu, M., Jensen, L.J.*, & Gonzalez, D.* (2021). Understanding children’s problem-solving strategies in solving game-based logic problems. International Journal of Technology in Education and Science, 5(2), 245–257. https://doi.org/10.46328/ijtes.98
  18. Soomro, K.A., Kale, U., Curtis, R., Akcaoglu, M., & Bernstein, M. (2020). An investigation of digital divide among higher education faculty. International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education, 21. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41239-020-00191-5
  19. Kale, U. & Akcaoglu, M. (2020). Two essential skills for future teachers: Problem-solving and teaching how to solve problems in technology-rich contexts. Peabody Journal of Education, 95(2), 127–138. https://doi.org/10.1080/0161956X.2020.1745612
  20. Greenhalgh, S.P., Rosenberg, J.M., Willet, K.B.S., Koehler, M.J., & Akcaoglu, M. (2020). It’s about time! Comparing synchronous and asynchronous activity in a teacher-focused Twitter hashtag. Computers and Education. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2020.103809
  21. Akcaoglu, M. & Green, L.S. (2019). Teaching systems thinking through game design. Educational Technology Research & Development, 67(1). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11423-018-9596-8
  22. Akcaoglu, M. & Lee, E. (2018). Using Facebook groups to support social presence in online learning. Distance Education, 39(3). https://doi.org/10.1080/01587919.2018.1476842
  23. Kale, U., Akcaoglu, M., Cullen, T., & Goh, D. (2018). Contextual factors influencing access to teaching computational thinking. Computers in the Schools. https://doi.org/10.1080/07380569.2018.1462630
  24. Kale, U., Akcaoglu, M., Cullen, T., Goh, D., Devine, L., Calvert, N., & Grise, K. (2018). Computational what? Relating computational thinking to teaching. TechTrends. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11528-018-0290-9
  25. Kale, U. & Akcaoglu, M. (2018). The role of relevance in future teachers’ utility value and interest toward technology. Educational Technology Research & Development, 66(2), 283–311. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11423-017-9547-9
  26. Akcaoglu, M., Rosenberg, J.M., Ranellucci, J., & Schwarz, C.V. (2018). Outcomes from a self-generated utility value intervention on fifth and sixth-grade students’ value and interest in science. International Journal of Educational Research, 87, 67–77. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijer.2017.12.001
  27. Soomro, K.A., Kale, U., Curtis, R., Akcaoglu, M., & Bernstein, M. (2018). Development of an instrument to measure faculty’s information and communication technology access (FICTA). Education and Information Technologies, 23(1), 253–269. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-017-9599-9
  28. Rosenberg, J.M., Greenhalgh, S., Koehler, M.J., Hamilton, E., & Akcaoglu, M. (2016). An investigation of state educational Twitter hashtags (SETHs) as affinity spaces. E-Learning and Digital Media, 13(1), 24–44. https://doi.org/10.1177/2042753016672351
  29. Gutierrez, A.P., Akcaoglu, M., & Chambers, W.L. (2016). Supporting metacognitive awareness and strategy use through digital photography in a rural Title I school. National Youth-At-Risk Journal, 2(1), 20–40. https://doi.org/10.20429/nyarj.2016.020103
  30. Hamilton, E., Rosenberg, J.M., & Akcaoglu, M. (2016). Examining the Substitution Augmentation Modification Redefinition (SAMR) model for technology integration. TechTrends, 60(5), 433–441. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11528-016-0091-y
  31. Akcaoglu, M. & Bowman, N.D. (2016). Using instructor-led Facebook groups to enhance students’ perceptions of course content. Computers in Human Behavior, 65, 582–590. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2016.05.029
  32. Akcaoglu, M. & Kale, U. (2016). Teaching to teach (with) game design: Game design and learning workshops for preservice teachers. Contemporary Issues in Technology and Teacher Education, 16(1), 60–81.
  33. Akcaoglu, M. (2016). Design and implementation of the Game-Design and Learning program. TechTrends, 60(2), 114–123. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11528-016-0022-y
  34. Akcaoglu, M. & Lee, E. (2016). Increasing social presence in online learning through small group discussions. The International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning, 17(3). https://doi.org/10.19173/irrodl.v17i3.2293
  35. Akcaoglu, M., Gumus, S., Boyer, D.M., & Bellibas, M.S. (2015). Policy, practice, and reality: Exploring a nation-wide technology implementation in Turkish schools. Technology, Pedagogy and Education, 24(4), 477–491.
  36. Akcaoglu, M. (2014). Learning problem-solving through making games. Educational Technology Research & Development, 62(5), 583–600. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11423-014-9347-4
  37. Bowman, N.D. & Akcaoglu, M. (2014). “I see smart people!”: Using Facebook to supplement the university mass lecture. The Internet and Higher Education, 23, 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.iheduc.2014.05.003
  38. Akcaoglu, M. & Koehler, M.J. (2014). Cognitive outcomes from the Game-Design and Learning (GDL) after-school program. Computers & Education, 75, 72–81. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2014.02.003
  39. Roseth, C.J., Akcaoglu, M., & Zellner, A. (2013). Blending synchronous face-to-face and computer-supported cooperative learning in a hybrid doctoral seminar. TechTrends, 57(3), 54–59.
  40. Gumus, S. & Akcaoglu, M. (2013). Instructional leadership in Turkish primary schools: An analysis of teachers’ perceptions and current policy. Educational Management Administration & Leadership, 41(3), 289–302.
  41. Akcaoglu, M. (2006). Review of PodOmatic. The Journal of the JALT CALL SIG, 2(2), 67–81.

Books

  1. Wang, W., Akcaoglu, M., Rosenberg, J., & Kellogg, S. (2026). Computational Analysis of Educational Data: A Field Guide Using R. https://data-edu.github.io/computational-social-science-cookbook/

Peer-reviewed Book Chapters

  1. Ocak, C., Hodges, C.B., & Akcaoglu, M. (2025). Fostering a Student-in-the-Loop Approach in Interactions with Generative AI in Online Discussions. In Papadakis (Ed.), AI Roles and Responsibilities in Education. Signals and Communication Technology. Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-96855-6_10
  2. Cain, E. J., McCurdy, R. P., & Akcaoglu, M. (2023). Rurality, race, and STEM. In Hallmark, Ardoin, & Means (Eds.), Race and rurality: Considerations for advancing higher education equity. Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003446620-24
  3. Akcaoglu, M., Hodges, C. B., & Jensen, L. J. (2022). Using Twitter to Form Professional Learning Communities. In Punziano & Delli Paoli (Eds.), Handbook of Research on Advanced Research Methodologies for a Digital Society (pp. 510–525). IGI Global.
  4. Boyer, D. M., Akcaoglu, M., & Pernsteiner, S. (2017). Connecting game and instructional design through development. In Baek (Ed.), Game-based learning: Theory, strategies and performance outcomes (pp. 67–83). Nova Publishing.
  5. Lee, E. & Akcaoglu, M. (2017). Sociability of Online Learning Environments. In Spector, Locke, & Childress (Eds.), Learning, design, and technology. doi: 10.1007/978-3-319-17727-4_39-2
  6. Akcaoglu, M., Gutierrez, A. P., Sonnleitner, P., & Hodges, C.B. (2016). Game design as a complex problem solving process. In Zheng & Gardner (Eds.), Handbook of research on serious games for educational applications (pp. 217–233). IGI Publishing.
  7. Koehler, M.J., Mishra, P., Akcaoglu, M., & Rosenberg, J.M. (2013). TPACK for teachers and teacher educators. In Bharati & Mishra (Eds.), ICT integrated teacher education models (pp. 1–8). Commonwealth Educational Media Center for Asia.
  8. Akcaoglu, M. (2013). Using an MMORPG in a language classroom. In Baek & Whitton (Eds.), Cases on digital game-based learning: Methods, models and strategies (pp. 15–24). IGI Publishing.

Editorial Work

Guest editor: Special Issue: Tinkering in Technology-Rich Design Contexts. Interdisciplinary Journal of Problem-Based Learning. Fall 2018.

  1. Akcaoglu, M., & Kale, U. (2018). Guest Editors’ Introduction: Tinkering in Technology-Rich Design Contexts. Interdisciplinary Journal of Problem-Based Learning, 12(2). https://doi.org/10.7771/1541-5015.1828

Conference Keynote

  • Akcaoglu, M. (October 3, 2024). Teaching and Learning in the age of AI: What will remain the same and what will change? International Symposium on Computer and Instructional Technologies (ICITS). Kastamonu, Türkiye.

Invited Presentations

  • Akcaoglu, M. (2024). Teaching and Learning with AI. National Ministry of Education Teacher Professional Development Series. Kastamonu, Turkiye.
  • Akcaoglu, M. (2021). Oyun Tasarimi in K12 (Game Design in K12). Yarinin Egitimi Seanslari (Tomorrow’s Education Sessions).
  • Akcaoglu, M. (2019). Connecting Game Design and Problem Solving. EDUCAUSE.
  • Akcaoglu, M. (2014). Game-design with Microsoft Kodu. Playful Learning Summit. Clemson, SC.
  • Akcaoglu, M. (2014). Digital games to support learning. Michigan State University Bridge Webinar Series.

Peer-reviewed Conference Presentations

  1. Flanigan, A. E., Brady, A. C., Akcaoglu, M., Dai, Y., Won, S., Daleiden, B., & Hartley, K. (2025, November). Person-centered factors and digital distraction in face-to-face college classes: A transnational investigation. Mid-Western Educational Research Association, Milwaukee, WI.
  2. Ozcan, M.S. & Akcaoglu, M. (2025). Development and Validation of the Multidimensional Interest Survey (MIS). AERA Annual Meeting, Denver, CO.
  3. Hodges, C.B., Akcaoglu, M., Dogan, S., & Allen, A. (2023). Teacher Self-Efficacy During the Development of a CS Curriculum Integrating Game Design and Unity. AERA Annual Meeting, Chicago.
  4. Akcaoglu, M. & Willet, K. B. S. (2023). The Nature of Online Discussions: Structure, Content, and Discourse in Whole Class Versus Small Groups. AERA Annual Meeting, Chicago.
  5. Flanigan, A., Akcaoglu, M., & Ray, E. (2022). Initiating and Maintaining Student-Instructor Rapport in Online Classes. AERA Annual Meeting, San Diego.
  6. Akcaoglu, M., Dogan, S., Hodges, C., & Allen, A. (2021, November). Design and Development of a Unity 3D based middle school CS curriculum. AECT Annual Conference. Virtual.
  7. Akcaoglu, M. & Jensen, L.J. (2020, November). How do they solve it? Investigating middle-school students’ problem-solving approaches in game-based puzzles. AECT Annual Conference. Virtual.
  8. Hodges, C.B., Akcaoglu, M., Downs, E., & Jensen, L.J. (2020, November). If you build it, will they come? Design, development, and delivery of an undergraduate minor in IDT. AECT Annual Conference. Virtual.
  9. Akcaoglu, M. & Hodges, C. B. (2019, October). An Analysis of #TECHtalkGA: A weekly Twitter chat for Educators in Georgia. Georgia Educational Research Conference (GERA), Macon, GA.
  10. Akcaoglu, M., Hodges, C. B., Rosenberg, J. M., & Hilpert, J. (2018, October). Factors impacting middle school students’ computer science efficacy, value, and interest. AECT Annual Conference, Kansas City, MO.
  11. Rosenberg, J. M., Willet, K. B. S., Greenhalgh, S. P., Koehler, M. J., & Akcaoglu, M. (2018). Comparing Synchronous and Asynchronous Modes of Twitter for Teacher Professional Learning. AERA Annual Meeting, New York.
  12. Jensen, L. J. & Akcaoglu, M. (2017, November). EmpathVR: Teaching empathy for ADHD through virtual reality. AECT Annual Conference, Jacksonville, FL.
  13. Kale, U., Akcaoglu, M., Cullen, T., & Goh, D. (2017, November). Readiness for teaching computational thinking in rural schools. AECT Annual Conference, Jacksonville, FL.
  14. Jin, Y., Schmidt-Crawford, D., Dousay, T. A., Boyer, D. M., Akcaoglu, M., & Lee, E. (2017, March). Makerspaces and Teacher Education. SITE International Conference, Austin, TX.
  15. Gok, A. & Akcaoglu, M. (2016, October). Evaluating gamification projects in Education: A review of the current research. AECT Annual Conference, Las Vegas, NV.
  16. Akcaoglu, M. & Lee, E. (2016, October). Making online learning sociable: Examining group size and Facebook groups as social affordances. AECT Annual Conference, Las Vegas, NV.
  17. Kale, U. & Akcaoglu, M. (2016, June). KODU – A game design tool to equip future teachers with Kodu Game Lab. International Communication Association (ICA), Fukuoka, Japan.
  18. Akcaoglu, M., Sonnleitner, P., Hodges, C.B., & Gutierrez, A. P. (2016, April). Teaching complex problem solving through digital game design. AERA Annual Meeting, Washington, D.C.
  19. Kale, U. & Akcaoglu, M. (2016, April). The effects of a self-generated value intervention on fifth and sixth grade students’ utility value and interest. AERA Annual Meeting, Washington, D.C.
  20. Akcaoglu, M. & Bodur, Y. (2016, February). Increasing sociability of online learning through small group discussions. Eastern Educational Research Association, Hilton Head Island, SC.
  21. Hamilton, E.R., Akcaoglu, M., & Rosenberg, J.M. (2015, November). Examining the SAMR Model for instructional design and technology integration. AECT Annual Conference, Indianapolis, IN.
  22. Akcaoglu, M. & Kale, U. (2015, November). Teaching to teach (with) game-design: GDL workshops for preservice teachers. AECT Annual Conference, Indianapolis, IN.
  23. Rosenberg, J. M., Akcaoglu, M., Hamilton, E. R., Greenhalgh, S. P., & Koehler, M. J. (2015, November). Tweeting U.S.A.: An examination of state educational Twitter hashtags (SETHs). AECT Annual Conference, Indianapolis, IN.
  24. Akcaoglu, M. & Lee, E. (2015, November). Impact of group size on social presence in asynchronous learning environments. AECT Annual Conference, Indianapolis, IN.
  25. Lee, E., Akcaoglu, M., Dousay, T. A., Boyer, D. M., & Brynteson, K. B. (2015, November). Makerspaces in higher education. Panel, AECT Annual Conference, Indianapolis, IN.
  26. Lee, E., Akcaoglu, M., & Jensen, L. J. (2015, September). The Innovation Studio: A MakerSpace for higher education. Design, Development, and Research Conference, Athens, GA.
  27. Strahler, D., Bowman, N.D., Akcaoglu, M., Hart, W., & Earnheardt, A. (2015, April). Pedagogy 2.0: The evolving discourse over social media in education. Eastern Communication Association, Philadelphia, PA.
  28. Akcaoglu, M. (2015, March). Finding the connection between game-design and problem-solving: Game-Design and Learning programs. National Youth-At-Risk Conference, Savannah, GA.
  29. Akcaoglu, M. & Rosenberg, J.M. (2015, March). Best practices for designing synchronous and asynchronous online teaching for adult learners. SITE International Conference, Las Vegas, NV.
  30. Akcaoglu, M. (2015, March). Teaching problem-solving skills through game-design: GDL Courses. Georgia Scholarship of STEM Teaching & Learning Conference, Statesboro, GA.
  31. Rosenberg, J.M., Schwarz, C.V., Akcaoglu, M., & Lee, S.W-Y. (2015, February). Comparative longitudinal case studies of two middle school teachers’ use of scientific modeling. Create4Stem Mini-Conference, East Lansing, MI.
  32. Rosenberg, J.M., Schwarz, C.V., Lee, S.W.-Y., & Akcaoglu, M. (2015, April). A comparative longitudinal case study of the use of scientific modeling. NARST, Chicago, IL.
  33. Hamilton, E., Rosenberg, J.M., & Akcaoglu, M. (2015, April). The SAMR framework: Challenges to its use for guiding K-12 teachers’ pedagogy and practice. AERA Annual Meeting, Chicago, IL.
  34. Rosenberg, J.M., Schwarz, C.V., Akcaoglu, M., & Lee, S.W.-Y. (2014, April). A comparative longitudinal case study of the use of scientific modeling. NARST Annual Meeting, Chicago, IL.
  35. Rosenberg, J.M., Schwarz, C.V., Akcaoglu, M., & Wen-Yu Lee, S. (2014, October). Comparative longitudinal case studies of two middle school teachers’ use of scientific modeling. Advances in Educational Psychology Conference, Alexandria, VA.
  36. Bellibas, M. S., Akcaoglu, M., & Gumus, S. (2013, March). Understanding the impacts of the FATIH initiative on Turkish teachers’ pedagogical perspectives. Comparative and International Education Society (CIES), New Orleans, LA.
  37. Schwarz, C. V., Li, Z., & Akcaoglu, M. (2013, April). 5th grade students’ engagement in modeling practice across content areas. AERA Annual Meeting, San Francisco, CA.
  38. Baek, H., Schwarz, C. V., Li, Z., & Akcaoglu, M. (2012, March). Fostering elementary students’ productive engagement in scientific modeling. NARST Annual Meeting, Indianapolis, IN.
  39. Gumus, S. & Akcaoglu, M. (2012, April). Are Turkish primary school principals ready for the 21st century? AERA Annual Meeting, Vancouver, WA.
  40. Kereliuk, K. & Akcaoglu, M. (2011, April). Reading TPACK between the lines of theory and practice in pre-service teachers. AERA Annual Meeting, New Orleans, LA.
  41. Ni, R., Akcaoglu, M., & Dirkin, K. (2010, June). Compromising among gaming, learning and society. Games Learning Society (GLS) Annual Conference, Madison, WI.
  42. Gungor, R. & Akcaoglu, M. (2010, April). Technology in the Turkish educational system: Analysis of a policy document. Comparative and International Education Society (CIES), Chicago, IL.
  43. Akcaoglu, M. (2006, May). Assessing writing through direct and indirect tests. 4th International Postgraduate Conference in Linguistics and Language Teaching, Adana, Turkey.

Unpublished Theses

  • Akcaoglu, M. (2013). Cognitive and motivational impacts of learning game design on middle school children. Doctoral Dissertation, Michigan State University. ProQuest (Order No. 3587683).
  • Akcaoglu, M. (2008). Exploring technology integration in English language teaching: Defining the competence, perceived barriers, attitudes, usage frequencies and educational value of technology integration for preservice and in-service ELT teachers. Master’s Thesis, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey.

Grants

PI & Co-PI

  1. External Evaluation: Lingo, A., Akcaoglu, M., Criss, C., & Flanigan, A. Math Nation – Georgia Pilot Program Evaluation (June–December 2025). Georgia Department of Education. Funded: $500,000
  2. External Evaluation: Lingo, A., Akcaoglu, M., Criss, C., & Flanigan, A. Math Nation – Georgia Pilot Program Evaluation (June–December 2026). Georgia Department of Education. Funded: $500,000
  3. Senior Personnel (responsible for data analytics): Brown, S., Williams, E., Akcaoglu, M., Dogan, S., Griffin, M., & Leckie, A. (2022–2024). Mitigating Pandemic Literacy Learning Loss in K-5 Students. GEER II Grant. Funded: $500,000
  4. PI: Akcaoglu, M., Dogan, S., Hodges, C.B., & Allen, A. (2020–2022). Project GAME: Developing and Piloting a Game Design-Based Computer Science Curriculum (#2027948). National Science Foundation. Funded: $299,895

Advisory Board

  1. Advisor: Kale, U. & Wang, Y. (2022–2025). Teaching Science with Computational Thinking: Preparing Preservice Elementary Educators of the Future STEM Workforce (#2142274). National Science Foundation. Funded: $294,958
  2. Advisor: Kale, U. Attracting Future Teachers to Computer Science Education: An Essential Pipeline. National Science Foundation. Pending
  3. Advisor: Vasconcelos, L. Culturally-sustained Scaffolds for Integrated Computational Thinking and Algebraic Thinking. National Science Foundation. Pending

Proposals – Pending / Unfunded

  1. PI: Akcaoglu, M., Ocak, C., Flanigan, A., & McCurdy, R. (2024–2027). IMPACT-CS: Investigating Motivation and Pedagogical Approaches in Computer Science Teaching. NSF. Requested: $550,092 – Revise/Resubmit/Pending
  2. Cain, E. & Akcaoglu, M. (2020). STEM READY. NYAR Faculty Research Award. $10,000 – Funded
  3. Gutierrez, A., Akcaoglu, M. & Chambers, W. COE Seed Grant, Georgia Southern University. $500 – Funded
  4. Gutierrez, A., Akcaoglu, M. & Chambers, W. COE Partnership Council, Georgia Southern University. $450 – Funded
  5. Akcaoglu, M. & Green, L. S. COE Partnership Council, Georgia Southern University. $750 – Funded
  6. Akcaoglu, M. & Lee, E. (2015). Digital Media and Learning: Design, Make, & Play. Innovation Incentive Program, COE. $9,904 – Funded
  7. Lee, E. & Akcaoglu, M. (2015). Student Technology Fees. Georgia Southern University. $60,000 – Funded
  8. Akcaoglu, M. (2014). Faculty Service Awards. Georgia Southern University. $532.80 – Funded
  9. Akcaoglu, M. (2012). Game Design and Learning summer program. Fevziye Mektepleri Vakfi. $20,000 – Funded
  10. Akcaoglu, M. (2011). Game Design and Learning summer program. Fevziye Mektepleri Vakfi. $20,000 – Funded

Not Funded

  1. Gumus, S. & Akcaoglu, M. (2020). Leading Schools from Distance. Independent Research Fund Denmark. $250,000
  2. Hodges, C. B. & Akcaoglu, M. (2018). Makerspaces in Schools. ILMS. $100,000
  3. Akcaoglu, M. & Kale, U. (2018). EI: ICU-Computing: A Route to Promote and Integrate Computational Thinking in Teaching. NSF. $1,426,709
  4. Akcaoglu, M., Jensen, L. J., & Wells, P. (2017). Empathy VR: A Virtual Reality Experience for Counselor Educators. GSU Seed Grant. $10,000
  5. Gallard, A. J., Akcaoglu, M., Aslan, A., & Brikich, K. (2016). Change Makers. NSF. $1,455,291
  6. Hodges, C. B., Jensen, L. J., & Akcaoglu, M. (2016). Strive. Cognizant Foundation. $20,000
  7. Yadav, A., Akcaoglu, M., Koehler, M. J., Schmidt, J. A., & Shah, N. (2016). A 2020 Vision for Girls in Computing. NSF. $1,069,196
  8. Akcaoglu, M. & Kale, U. (2016). Preservice teachers as game-designers: Teaching game design as pedagogy. Entertainment Software Association. $48,000
  9. Hilpert, J., Merchand, G., Haddad, R., Akcaoglu, M., et al. (2016). Complex Systems Science of Learning. NSF. $734,719
  10. Kale, U., Cullen, T., & Akcaoglu, M. (2016). EI: ICU-Computing. NSF. $802,321
  11. Yadav, A., Koehler, M. J., Shah, N., Ratan, R., & Akcaoglu, M. (2015). A 2020 Vision for Girls in Computing. NSF. $1,027,358
  12. Hodges, C.B., Akcaoglu, M., & Haddad, R. (2015). Project LeaPRS: Learning Problem-solving and Programming in Rural Schools. NSF. $599,841

Teaching Experience

Faculty Teaching (Georgia Southern University)

2025–2026
Department Chair (administrative release) · Fa: ITEC 8135 (2025), ITEC 8135* (2026)
2024
Sp: ITEC 3132, 8739, FRIT 7238* · Su: ITEC 8133 ×2, 7236 · Fa: IDS 2111, 4111
2023
Sp: FRIT 7236, ITEC 3132, 8739 · Su: ITEC 8231, Grant buyout · Fa: ITEC 8133, 7236, 7233
2022
Sp: FRIT 7236, ITEC 3132, 8739* · Su: ITEC 8134, Grant buyout · Fa: ITEC 8133, 7236, PD release
2021
Sp: ITEC 3132, 8839 ×2 · Su: ITEC 8134, Grant buyout · Fa: ITEC 3132, 7236, PD release
2020
Sp: ITEC 8838, 8839 · Su: ITEC 8134, 8231 · Fa: ITEC 8231, 3132, 8133, 8135*
2019
Sp: ITEC 3131, 8839, 7236 · Su: ITEC 8134, 3132, 3131 · Fa: ITEC 8133, 3132
2018
Sp: FRIT 7236, 7231, 7739 · Su: ITEC 8231, 7335, 8134 · Fa: ITEC 8133, 7236
2017
Sp: ITEC 8134, 7236, 7739 · Su: FRIT 7330 ×2, 7335 · Fa: FRIT 7231, 7236, ITEC 8133
2016
Sp: ITEC 8133, 7430, 8135 · Su: FRIT 7236, ITEC 7330 · Fa: ITEC 8133, 7430, 7739
2015
Sp: FRIT 7236, ITEC 8133, 8135 · Su: FRIT 7231, 7530 · Fa: FRIT 7231, 7236, ITEC 8134
2014
Sp: EDP 600, IDT 740* · Fa: FRIT 7236*, ITEC 8134, 8135
2013
EDP 600, IDT 735 (Michigan State University, final year of graduate school)

* Courses designed or significantly redesigned

Graduate Teaching Assistant

Aug 2010–May 2013
Graduate Teaching Assistant, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
  • TE 150 – Reflections on Learning (face-to-face and online): Fall 2010, Spring 2011, Fall 2011
  • CEP 807 – Proseminar in Educational Technology (online): Summer 2011
  • Supported CEP 900, 910, 930, 901b doctoral seminars
  • Best Hybrid Course Award – 2012 (CEP 910)

Other Teaching

Sep 2005–June 2008
English Language Teacher — Atilim University, Ankara, Turkey
Sep 2003–Jan 2005
English Language Teacher — FMV Ayazaga Isik Primary School, Istanbul, Turkey
Sep 2002–June 2003
English Language Teacher (preservice) — Robert College, Istanbul, Turkey
Aug 2003–June 2008
English Language Teacher — Private language schools, Istanbul and Ankara (Wall Street Institute; English Time)
2010–2020
Game Design Instructor — Summer and afterschool camps, grades 3–8

Doctoral Advisees

  • William Bell (2025–Present) – Role of Engagement on Student Academic Performance in Rural Schools
  • Moneak McCray (2025–Present) – Impact of Instructional Leadership on School Success in Rural Contexts

Awards & Fellowships

Honors and Awards

  • Jack Miller Research Award, Georgia Southern University, College of Education (August 2022)
  • Jack Miller Educator of the Year, Georgia Southern University, College of Education (August 2018)
  • Georgia Southern University Innovation and Discovery Award (Nominated, November 2020)
  • Georgia Southern University Research Award (Nominated, November 2018)

Fellowships

  1. Michigan State University, Dissertation Completion Fellowship, $6,000 (2013)
  2. Michigan State University, College of Education, Research Development Fund, $1,000 (2012)
  3. Michigan State University, College of Education, Research Development Fund, $1,000 (2010)
  4. Michigan State University, College of Education Scholarship, Research Development Fund, $1,175 (2011)
  5. Michigan State University, College of Education Scholarship, $4,000 (2008)
  6. Honor Scholarship Recipient (stipend + school fees), Boğaziçi University, Istanbul, Turkey (1999–2003)

Service & Affiliations

University Service

Years Role
2016–2019 Georgia Southern University Faculty Senate
2017–2019 Georgia Southern University Academic Standards Committee

College, Department, and Program Service

Years Role
2021–2022 College of Education, Research Committee – Chair
2020–2021 College of Education, Dean Search Committee Member
2020–2021 College of Education, Research Committee
2018–2020 College of Education, Technology and Instructional Resources Committee (Co-chair 2019–2020)
2017–2018 Educator Preparation Committee (EPC)
2016–2019 Webmaster, LTHD Department
2016–2022 Co-Founder, Innovation Studio Events
2015–2017 College of Education Research Committee
2014–2015 Search Committee, Instructional Technology Program
2016–2017 Search Committee, Educational Leadership Program

Professional Service

Years Role
2015–2022 Technology Coordinator, Scholarly Consortium for Innovative Psychology in Education (SCIPIE)

Ad-Hoc Reviewer: Computers in Human Behavior; International Review of Research on Distance Learning; Computers & Education; Educational Management Administration & Leadership; TechTrends; Communication Teacher; E-Learning and Digital Media; Journal of Educational Computing Research; national and international conferences (SITE, NYAR, AECT); NSF Panel Reviewer.

Community Service

Years Role
Fall 2018 Game Design instructor, Portal Elementary School
2015–2018 Photography and Digital Learning instructor, Nevils Elementary School
2015–2019 Game Design Instructor, Nevils Elementary School
Spring 2016 Game Design Instructor, Statesboro Main Street Library
2015–2018 Game Design Instructor, William James Middle School
2016–2021 Robotics Instructor, Innovation Studio

Professional Affiliations

  • American Educational Research Association (AERA)
  • Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT)
  • Scholarly Consortium for Innovative Psychology in Education (SCIPIE)

Last updated April 2026 · Full publication list (auto-synced)