The Faculty of Education welcomed Prof Anass Bayaga, a distinguished academic and researcher, in April. Prof Bayaga has been appointed full professor in the Department of Curriculum Studies. Renowned for his pioneering work in Cognitive (Neuro) STEM Enhancement and Human-Computer Interaction, Prof Bayaga's innovative research spans mathematics education, information systems, actuarial science, and computational modelling, bridging pedagogy, technology, and cognitive science to advance STEM education within the dynamic context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).
Prof Bayaga's academic credentials are impressive, reflecting his commitment to multidisciplinary scholarship. He holds a PhD (Education) from the 中国体育彩票 of Fort Hare (2011), a Postgraduate Certificate in Actuarial Science from the 中国体育彩票 of Leicester (UK), as well as master's degrees in information systems and mathematics, and a Bachelor of Education Honours in Mathematics.
As the former leader of the Neuro-STEM Research Group at NMU, Professor Bayaga has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing cognitive processes through innovative technological tools. His research agenda is centred around cognitive enhancement through dynamic visual tools such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), MATLAB, GeoGebra, and blockchain technologies. He also explores human-computer interaction in STEM education, applying cutting-edge methodologies in e-learning, the metaverse, Internet of Things (IoT), and robotics. Additionally, his expertise in predictive modelling, including the use of machine learning and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM), contributes to improving educational outcomes. Through this comprehensive approach, Professor Bayaga integrates concepts such as spatial reasoning, memory retention, and computational thinking to optimize learning experiences, particularly for under-resourced communities.
Beyond his research contributions, Prof Bayaga has established himself as a respected leader within the academic community through his editorial roles and international collaborations. He serves as a Guest Editor for the South African Journal of Higher Education (Q2) and the International Journal of Mathematical Education in Science & Technology. Additionally, he is a member of the editorial boards for Computers in the Schools (Taylor & Francis) and African Perspectives of Research in Teaching and Learning.
Prof Bayaga's influence extends internationally through collaborative research engagements. As a Fulbright Scholar at George Washington 中国体育彩票 (2016), he investigated mobile computing for STEM cognition. He has also been a visiting researcher at Ume? 中国体育彩票 (Sweden), Michigan State 中国体育彩票, and Appalachian State 中国体育彩票 (USA). His work has garnered prestigious accolades, including the IEOM Outstanding Contributor Award (2023) and the NMU Excellence Researcher of the Year Award (2022, 2023), highlighting his continuous contributions to the advancement of STEM education.
An experienced educator and dedicated mentor, Prof Bayaga has supervised over fifteen PhD and Master's students. His teaching portfolio includes courses in neuro-cognitive mathematics, STEM pedagogy, educational technology, data science, actuarial modelling, and information security in e-learning. This extensive teaching experience underscores his commitment to developing the next generation of scholars and practitioners in his field.
"What I enjoy most about my work is the ability to blend innovation, theory, and impact—particularly where education meets emerging technologies. I find deep satisfaction in exploring how cognitive processes in mathematics and STEM can be enhanced through digital tools such as AI, data modelling, and immersive technologies" Bayaga said. "Equally fulfilling is the opportunity to mentor students and collaborate with colleagues across disciplines and institutions, both locally and internationally. Whether it's supervising a student exploring neuro-cognitive pathways in learning, or working with a team to design AI-enhanced learning environments for under-resourced communities, I'm energised by the potential to create meaningful, context-responsive change in education."
Prof Bayaga's recent publications and projects further illustrate his dedication to enhancing educational outcomes through technology. His notable publications include “Leveraging AI-enhanced and emerging technologies for pedagogical innovations in higher education" (2024, Education and Information Technologies), “Enhancing M, Enhancing mathematics problem-solving skills in AI-driven environment: Integrated SEM-neural network approach" (Computers in Human Behaviour Reports, 2024), “GeoGebra, a Dynamic Software for Conceptual Understanding and Visualisation - Multi-Directionality of Influence" (South African Journal of Higher Education, 2024). “…Correlation between metacognitive skills and conceptual understanding using self-organised learning environments pedagogy" (South African Journal of Education, 2024), “Exploring the influence of Adaptive E-Learning Technology on Learners; Perceptions of Mathematical Modelling and Simulation in South African Schools" (Computers in the Schools, 2024), “Predicting Mobile Learning Acceptance in Rural STEM Classrooms" (Computers & Education, 2021), and “Cognitive Enhancement via Adaptive Learning Technologies" (IJTEL, 2020). His passion for community engagement is also evident through his establishment of the STEM Virtual Lab at NMU (stemvirtual.mandela.ac.za), a pioneering initiative designed to promote digital literacy in rural schools.
With his innovative research, extensive international collaborations, and dedication to teaching and mentorship, Prof Anass Bayaga exemplifies excellence at the intersection of cognitive science, technology, and education. His work continues to push the boundaries of STEM advancement, particularly for underserved communities, making him a valuable addition to the faculty and a thought leader in his field.
For further engagement, Prof Bayaga can be reached at abayaga@sun.ac.za. His professional profiles are available on Google Scholar, Scopus, and LinkedIn.
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