Hamidreza Khademi

Applied Linguistics , (MA)

Research interests

Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL).

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

Concordia Department of Education offers high-quality education with having supportive staff and distinguished professors with a wide variety of research interests.

Valuable aspects of studying here?

The Department has provided me with theoretical knowledge as well as practical skills in both research and teaching. Also, the friendly rapport between students and professors along with having helpful and hardworking peers have brought the best out of my learning.

Advice for potential applicants to graduate studies in Education?

You would be well advised to take advantage of the friendly atmosphere to build and expand your network during your studies. This will have a profound positive impact on your personal, academic and career life! Also, I would suggest that you reach out to the potential supervisors a bit early on, i.e., at the end of the first semester or the beginning of the second.

Take a look

Khademi, H., & Farokhmehr, M. (2016). The Relationship between EI (Emotional Intelligence) and speaking proficiency in e-Learning. In ECEL 2016-proceedings of the 15th European Conference on e-Learning (pp. 357–363). Czech Republic: Prague.

Aniklet Zefi

Educational Technology , (MA)

Research interests

All things online learning. Ultimately, I want to be able to apply what I learned to design online learning experiences that do not just work but are also meaningful.

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

Montreal is an affordable city with a slower pace than Toronto. I also wanted an educational technology program that was reputable and where I could interact with other students both inside and outside the classroom. Most importantly, I was nervous about transitioning from a successful career in human resources to something new and the Educational Technology program offered internship opportunities that made me feel comfortable I would get relevant work experience.

Valuable aspects of studying here?

The students in the Educational Technology program are diverse both culturally and experience wise. This challenged me to think differently and provided me with an opportunity to learn about different cultures and fields that I did not know much about. The program itself teaches you how to design learning experiences the right way. It is well thought-out and grounded in research. I can confidently say “I can do this”.

Funding for studies and living expenses?

Being eligible for Quebec tuition prior to moving from Ontario helped make the financial commitment easier. Additionally, the professors in the Educational Technology program provided me with valuable research assistant and teaching assistant opportunities. Finally, my last semester is a paid internship that the program supports students in finding which eased the financial pressures.

Advice for potential applicants to graduate studies in Education?

Learn about the program you are applying to and the field. Find out more about what you can do after you complete the program and assess whether you feel it is the right fit for you. Ask the program director or appropriate contact questions when you are unsure, they are there to help! If possible, find a former student of the program that you consider a peer to have an informal chat.

Anita Jandaly

Child Studies , (MA)

Research interests

Children’s popular culture – with a focus on Disney scholarship – and critical media literacy

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

I was inspired to pursue my MA in the DoE’s Child Studies program to continue to learn from such exceptionally talented faculty, staff, and colleagues; they are driven and passionate, and motivate you to conduct above and beyond research.

Valuable aspects of studying here?

Studying in the Department of Education provides innumerate opportunities for collaboration – whether through stimulating course projects, research- or teaching assistantships, all of which have been both an inclusive and supportive learning experience. Ultimately, the privilege to conduct your own research is an experience that you will cherish for a lifetime.

Advice for potential applicants to graduate studies in Education?

My biggest piece of advice is to trust the process as you adjust into graduate school. Ask questions, seek insight from colleagues, and enter with an open-mind. The possibilities are endless!

Aki Tsunemoto

Applied Linguistics specialization, (PhD)

Research interests

Second language (L2) speech assessments, psycholinguistic aspects of L2 speech interaction and L2 pronunciation teaching

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

What I’ve experienced so far at Concordia/Department of Education is far better than what I could have ever imagined, including its empowering community and abundant opportunities to actively be engaged in research activities.

Valuable aspects of studying here?

I found Concordia is the best in terms of how supportive and vibrant its community is (e.g., help from programme administrators, graduate students’ conferences and workshops). On top of that, I’ve always been grateful to my supervisor, committee members and other professors who are my role models and they have been offering me invaluable and constant support and guidance.

Funding for studies and living expenses?

I’ve received a Concordia Graduate Fellowship and a Concordia remission for my international tuition.

In terms of external scholarships:

• 2020 – 2022 Merit Scholarship Program for Foreign Students (PBEEE), Fonds de recherche – Nature et technologies (FRQNT) and ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement supérieur
• 2019 – 2022 Graduate Scholarship for Degree Seeking Students, Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO)

I’ve also received three conference travel awards from Concordia, the Department of Education, and the Canadian Association of Applied Linguistics.

Take a look

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Aki_Tsunemoto

Hedia Hizaoui

Educational Studies, (MA)

Research interests

Global Citizenship Education / Educational reform and its impact on teacher training and professional development

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

The Department of Education offers a different approach to education. It moves away from the notions of technicality and efficiency to adopt a humane, historicized, and critical approach to teaching and learning that opens up hearts and minds. I have developed a deeper understanding of education within local and global contexts and how the interconnectedness and interdependence of economic and political agendas impact policies and practices.

Valuable aspects of studying here?

What is unique about the Department of Education is the unlimited support of the professors, which goes beyond the academic to touch the human side of the students. Twelve months and eight courses into the program shifted my plans and aspirations drastically. I have received tremendous guidance and encouragement to switch from the diploma to the Master’s program. Feeling confident and supported, I am now embarking on a new project: a PhD. The journey has just started.

Funding for studies and living expenses?

Allyson Kassie and Steven Goldberg Graduate Scholarship in Education.

Advice for potential applicants to graduate studies in Education?

Don’t be reluctant to share your ideas and opinion during discussions for fear that you don’t know ‘enough’ to contribute. Your thoughts matter and your experience is invaluable. And guess what: that’s what makes you unique and remembered.

Wilson Hernandez

Educational Studies, (PhD)

Research interests

The construction of teacher subjectivities in (post-) conflict countries

Take a look

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0742051X19318049

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Wilson_Hernandez7

Thao-Nguyen Nina Le

Applied Linguistics, (MA)

Research interests

Heritage Language Maintenance through identity, social engagement, and political viewpoint

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

The first moment I stepped into the Department of Education at Concordia University, I felt a sense of welcoming. It felt as if everything was possible here.

Valuable aspects of studying here?

I have been amazed by how professional yet very approachable the faculty members are. My two most thrilling moments have been (1) being able to work as the website/social media coordinator for the TESL Resource Centre initiated by Dr Teresa Hernandez Gonzalez, and (2) having internalised Dr Pavel Trofimovich’s feedback on my writing.

Advice for potential applicants to graduate studies in Education?

Don’t be shy! Reach out to staff and/or faculty members with your questions.

Take a look

If you are an ESL teacher, you should visit Concordia’s TESL Resource Centre: https://www.concordia.ca/tesl where we offer ESL teaching content including lesson plans, book reviews, workshops, editorials, podcast episodes, and an innovative mentoring program!

Gina Ward

Applied Linguistics, (MA)

Research interests

My general interests are in language & social justice and L2 phonology.

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

After teaching EFL/ESL for many years, I wanted to update, broaden and deepen my theoretical knowledge in Applied Linguistics.  This program is exciting, interesting and challenging – exactly what I was looking for and more!

Valuable aspects of studying here?

I began my studies during the pandemic, and the level of support from faculty, staff and students during this challenging time has been outstanding.

Rebecca Maccaul

Child Studies, (MA)

Research interests

The affordances of different models in partitive division in the fourth grade

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

I chose to complete my graduate studies in the Department of Education because of the amazing opportunities that the degree will provide me with. The experiences in research are eye opening and it gives me a sense of pride knowing that the research conducted at Concordia will help to better the lives of children.

Valuable aspects of studying here?

An exciting aspect of studying in this department is definitely the opportunity to help conduct research. In my experience as a graduate student, the opportunities for research have been very formative.

Houda Jawhar

Educational Technology, (MA)

Research interests

Maker Culture

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

I choose the Master’s in Educational Technology program at Concordia University because it is at the forefront of providing knowledge, technology, skills and experience necessary to prepare its graduates for the future of workplace. In addition, the inclusive community within Concordia and its diverse multiculturalism encouraged me to apply to it. I feel very welcomed and able to express my ideas and opinions in a safe environment that exchanges mutual respect and appreciates differences within others.

Valuable aspects of studying here?

The transition I went through, coming from a nursing education background, and moving to instructional design has been challenging and rewarding at the same time. I was able to overcome the challenges faced through the incredible support of the professors, and the collaborative approach with my fellow colleagues which the program emphasizes. With each challenge, I found myself growing and developing on both the personal and professional levels as a future instructional designer.

Funding for studies and living expenses?

I am blessed with the best parents, who have fully supported me when I decided to move back to Canada and to pursue my Master’s degree, including funding my studies.

I have also worked in various jobs since I moved to Montreal two years ago. In the past year, I have worked as a teaching assistant for Dr. Nadia Naffi’s Human Performance Technology course in the Educational Technology program. Also, I am currently working with Dr. Ann-Louise Davidson as a research assistant and education maker, where we research and develop future materialities including 3D printed fabrics and embedded wearable prototypes.

Take a look

www.houdajawhar.com

www.educationmakers.ca

June Ruivivar

Applied Linguistics specialization, (PhD)

Research interests

Learning and teaching of sociolinguistic variation, with a focus on the roles of social identity and social networks

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

Faculty, staff, and students are all extremely supportive. The department offers plenty of opportunities to share our work and encourages practical applications for our research.

Valuable aspects of studying here?

The rapport among graduate students is great. We are friends in and out of the classroom/lab, help each other through tough assignments and other challenges, and celebrate each other’s achievements.

Funding for studies and living expenses?

Teaching and research assistantships

Faculty of Arts and Science fellowship

Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (Joseph-Armand Bombardier Canada Graduate Scholarship)

Advice for potential applicants to graduate studies in Education?

Get to know faculty research interests and reach out to potential supervisors early on. Connect with current students to get to know the program better – we’re happy to help!

Take a look

Recent publications:

Ruivivar, J., & Collins, L. (2017). The effects of foreign accent on perceptions of nonstandard grammar: A pilot study. TESOL Quarterly, 52(1), 187-198. https://doi.org/10.1002/tesq.374

Ruivivar, J., & Collins, L. (2018). Nonnative accent and the perceived grammaticality of spoken grammar forms. Journal of Second Language Pronunciation (Online-First). https://doi.org/10.1075/jslp.17039.rui

Jonathan Provost

Educational Studies, (MA)

Research interests

Teacher agency (especially in relation to burnout), as well as a budding interest in the importance of tangents in forming teacher identity and a positive classroom environment.

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

I heard about the high expectations and trust Concordia’s DOE has in the competence of their students. I wanted to be pushed and challenged both intellectually and creatively, so I felt that Concordia’s reputation made it the perfect place for that.

Valuable aspects of studying here?

I came to this department to be challenged, but I did not expect just how much I would be. The professors as well as other students are so full of different viewpoints and ideas that you spend most of your semester being completely destabilized while utterly driven to put your own voice out there.

Advice for potential applicants to graduate studies in Education?

Do not be afraid to ask for guidance or to bounce ideas off of professors and other students. Of course, everyone is busy, and you should be understanding in that regard, but everyone is also more than happy to help however they can (which will make a world of a difference for you, believe me).

Favourite past-times, places to visit in Montreal?

I love cycling, listening to music, discovering new foods, and playing videogames. You can typically find me doing any of those things in and around Montreal (if you are considering coming here from abroad, know that we have a great and varied music scene as well as fantastic venues).

Pakize Uludag

Applied Linguistics specialization, (PhD)

Research interests

My main research focus concerns integrated writing assessment where students are required to incorporate information from sources into their essays. My goal is to identify which linguistic features of university level writing are associated with positive evaluations, such as high test scores or positive instructor assessments. 

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

Studying at Concordia was not a tough choice for me given its diverse student population, ideal location in the heart of Montreal, and supportive local and international community.

I was also thrilled at the opportunity of working with my current PhD supervisor and studying in the DOE, which focusses distinctively on research and training.

Funding for studies and living expenses?

Concordia University International Tuition Award of Excellence

Concordia University Dean of Arts and Science Award of Excellence

Mitacs Globalink Research Award Abroad

British Council Assessment Research Award 

Kym Taylor

Applied Linguistics Specialization, (PhD)

Research interests

Social attitudes toward non-native speakers

Working title of dissertation: Do accents speak louder than words? Examining the scope and malleability of linguistic stereotyping

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

The Department of Education faculty is outstanding. While looking at graduate schools, I remember thinking what an honor it would be to even meet some of the researchers in the department. Those researchers are now my mentors.

In addition, while I live in a small rural town just across the US border, an hour’s drive allows me to study in the beautiful, linguistically diverse city of Montreal.

Valuable aspects of studying here?

One of the high points for me has been presenting research at international conferences where Concordia’s stellar reputation is often acknowledged. There is great respect in the field of Applied Linguistics for our university and for the research that Concordia produces.

Funding for studies and living expenses?

Between an International Tuition Award of Excellence, an Arts and Sciences Fellowship, and research assistantships, I am able to completely fund my studies. To cover additional living expenses, I also teach at a US university.

Faculty Research Grant, Concordia University

Faculty of Arts and Science Fellowship, Concordia University (PhD)

International Tuition Award of Excellence, Concordia University (PhD)

Conference and Exposition Award, Concordia University (PhD) 2016 (x2), 2017 (x2), 2018 (x2), 2019 (x1)

Advice for potential applicants to graduate studies in Education?

Concordia’s Department of Education provides an opportunity for exponential personal and professional growth. If you are willing (or perhaps even afraid) to step out of your comfort zone, you will quickly find that you are capable of things you never thought possible. There are no limits to how far this journey can take you if you commit to the challenge.

Take a look

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0346251X17303214

https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/studies-in-second-language-acquisition/article/social-attitudes-and-speech-ratings/E4B7669628EFA68469886DDF42CECE2E

Julia Fuoco

Child Studies, (MA)

Research interests

Sibling relationships, particularly within the context of sibling teaching

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

I chose to pursue my graduate studies at Concordia University for its inclusive and supportive learning environment. Since I have begun my graduate studies, I have felt continually supported and encouraged by my mentors and peers to challenge myself and pursue my research interests to their full potential. 

Advice for potential applicants to graduate studies in Education?

My advice would be to start asking yourself questions. Think about what area of research interests you, and address any burning questions you may have about a topic. Having a great passion for and enthusiasm about your field of study will make your experience in graduate school that much more fulfilling!

Favourite past-times, places to visit in Montreal?

My favourite past-time is baking! My favourite place to visit in Montreal is Little Italy, for its charm and incredible food. 

Lynn Jammal

Educational Studies, (MA)

Research interests

My research and study interests revolve around liminalities of Arab women’s identity that are experienced by international and immigrant Arab students in Canada. I am also interested in post-colonial and de-colonial education, critical pedagogy and philosophy of education. Recently, I’ve developed an interest in spoken word poetry and digital story-telling on the existence and the ways of knowing experienced by women, youth and minorities and I hope to incorporate it in future research endeavors.

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

I joined the program due to its interdisciplinary approach in education. I consider a multifaceted knowledge of education imperative for conducting authentic and principled qualitative research. The location of the program and campus, being in the heart of Montreal, were also a contributing factor to my decision to attend Concordia. The city is very multicultural, welcoming and student-friendly which makes it all the more worthwhile.

Valuable aspects of studying here?

The feelings of camaraderie and support between students and the guidance and empowerment from professors that I found in this program have been invaluable. The sense of self I developed is indistinct from the sense of community I found myself in under the educational studies program, and that is quite imperative for international students who seek to find and build their own supportive communities while living abroad.

Advice for potential applicants to graduate studies in Education?

It will change your life for the better in terms of knowledge of the self, community, and culture, so go for it. It’s a huge investment, but it’s worth it as long as it is aligned with your values and life goals.

Take a look

It isn’t mine, but it’s a talk I hold dearly close to my heart that I believe people should watch. It’s called: Depression: The Secret We Share by Andrew Solomon.

https://www.ted.com/talks/andrew_solomon_depression_the_secret_we_share?language=en#t-6867

Favourite past-times, places to visit in Montreal?

My favorite past-time in Montreal is to go swinging on the swings with Dania (another student in the program) as we discuss pertinent life issues and philosophical debates on meaning, existence and what we’re having for dinner. My favorite swings are the musical swings they set up in May in Place des Arts.

Dania Mohamad

Educational Studies specialization, (PhD)

Research interests

I have always been fascinated by the power dynamic between genders in education particularly the hidden curriculum. My topic focuses on women’s ways of knowing and if/how modern day curricula take those different ways of knowing into account.

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

I completed my undergraduate studies at Concordia and I was always interested in the DOE especially, its multidisciplinary focus on adult education. So I made the decision to pursue my graduate studies there.

Valuable aspects of studying here?

By studying in this department, you actually grow as an individual and an academic.

It is a rare environment, where we are encouraged to find our authentic selves and express our voices using the tools we have at hand. The people I met in DOE have become some of my closest friends and partners in my academic journey.

Advice for potential applicants to graduate studies in Education?

You will feel growing pains, and believe me they hurt but they are so worth it!

There is absolutely no shame in asking for help.

Grad school is nothing like the undergraduate level.

Favourite past-times, places to visit in Montreal?

Going to the park and having long discussions while swinging on the swings with Lynn, whom I met at DOE. Quai d'horloge by the old port.

Nasim Tavassoli

Child Studies Specialization, (PhD)

Research interests

Children’s social, emotional, and moral development; Prosocial behaviors/motivation; Sibling relationship

Why Concordia’s Department of Education?

Working with faculty members who are expert in my research area was my top priority. Also, at Department of Education, each student’s program of study is tailored to her interests. This opportunity encourages students and facilitates the process of developing independent program of research.

Funding for studies and living expenses?

2019-2022  FRQSC-Bourse de Doctorat

2017-2020  Concordia University Graduate Fellowship

2017-2018  Concordia University Merit Scholarship 

Take a look

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Nasim_Tavassoli

https://doi.org/10.1080/10409289.2019.1599095