Anastasiia Kapuza | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Dr. Anastasiia Kapuza | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

National Research University Higher School of Economics | Russia

Anastasiia Kapuza is an accomplished researcher, educator, and academic leader whose work lies at the intersection of education, psychology, and digital learning. She has built her career around understanding how learners construct and organize knowledge, with a special focus on applying network analysis to educational research. Currently serving as Head of the International Laboratory of Research and Design in eLearning at HSE University in Moscow, she leads a dynamic team of researchers exploring innovative approaches to teaching and learning. Her scholarly contributions include numerous publications in internationally recognized journals, where she examines topics such as cognitive load, concept mapping, and digital education. Alongside her research, she is a dedicated instructor, teaching academic writing, research design, and data analysis to undergraduate and postgraduate students. With expertise in project management, team leadership, and quantitative methods, she continues to influence the fields of cognitive psychology and education policy worldwide.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Anastasiia Kapuza pursued a rich academic journey that bridges psychology and education, forming a strong foundation for her research career. She earned her doctoral degree in Education from HSE University in Moscow, where her dissertation focused on the use of network analysis to assess learners’ conceptual structures. This work integrated cognitive psychology, developmental theory, and educational measurement, showcasing her ability to merge rigorous quantitative methods with applied learning research. Prior to her doctorate, she completed a master’s degree in Psychology with a specialization in educational and psychological measurement, also at HSE University. Here, she honed her skills in psychometrics, assessment design, and advanced data analysis. Her academic path began at the Academy of the Federal Penal Service of Russia, where she trained as a psychologist and psychology teacher. This progression reflects her commitment to combining psychological expertise with educational research, ultimately shaping her specialization in digital learning and cognitive development.

Experience

Anastasiia Kapuza has extensive experience across education, research, and applied psychology. At HSE University, she has served as a research fellow and later as associate professor, contributing to both national and international projects in educational sciences. She now directs the International Laboratory of Research and Design in eLearning, where she manages interdisciplinary teams and develops large-scale research initiatives focused on digital learning and cognitive development. Her expertise extends to advanced statistical analysis, project design, and leadership of applied studies supported by both academic institutions and EdTech companies. Earlier in her career, she gained practical experience as a psychologist in a correctional facility, where she applied psychological methods in a highly structured environment. In addition to her research roles, she is an active university instructor, teaching courses in data analysis, academic writing, and research methodology. This combination of applied practice, teaching, and research leadership highlights her versatility and academic impact.

Awards & Honors

Anastasiia Kapuza has earned recognition for her scholarly achievements and contributions to educational innovation. She has successfully led projects funded by prominent organizations, including grants for the integration of artificial intelligence in education, development of self-regulated learning tools, and creation of online educational programs. Her research has been supported by both universities and leading EdTech companies, underscoring the practical value of her work. She has published in top-tier international journals, which reflects the high impact of her research in fields such as educational psychology and technology-enhanced learning. In addition to formal grants and project support, she has been invited to present at conferences and participate in academic forums across different disciplines, further demonstrating her standing in the academic community. Her leadership of an international research laboratory represents not only an honor but also recognition of her expertise and ability to guide cutting-edge research in digital learning.

Research Focus

Anastasiia Kapuza’s research integrates digital learning, psychology, and educational assessment. Her central interest lies in understanding how learners’ knowledge structures can be represented and analyzed using network analysis and concept mapping. She investigates how different instructional designs and technological interventions influence cognitive load, metacognition, and student engagement in both traditional and online learning environments. Another important aspect of her work examines how prior knowledge and individual learning strategies impact academic achievement, offering insights into personalized learning. She also explores the potential and limitations of new technologies, including artificial intelligence and GPT-based tools, in supporting self-regulated learning. Beyond the classroom, her studies address broader issues of educational inequality, technology adoption, and policy development. By combining advanced data analysis, cognitive theories, and innovative experimental designs, she aims to create evidence-based solutions that enhance learning outcomes and inform the design of more effective educational systems in the digital age.

Publications

1. Thinking Skills in Teaching Practices: Relationship with Students’ Achievement in Mathematics

Year: 2020
Citations: 2

2. Reliability and Structure of the TALIS Social Desirability Scale: An Assessment Based on Item Response Theory

Year: 2017
Citations: 6

3. Diminishing Marginal Returns to Computer-Assisted Learning

Year: 2023
Citations: 12

4. Primary School Students and Their Teachers in the Digital Environment

Year: 2020
Citations: 8

5. Distinctive Ability of Concept Maps for Assessing Levels of Competence: A Pilot Study

Year: 2017
Citations: 8

Conclusion

Dr. Anastasiia Kapuza is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. She demonstrates a rare combination of innovative research, strong publication record, leadership in academic teams, and practical impact through applied projects. Her contributions to digital learning, cognitive research, and educational innovation mark her as a leading scholar in her domain. With greater international visibility, deeper policy engagement, and expanded cross-disciplinary collaborations, she is well-positioned to further elevate her research influence and strengthen her reputation as one of the most impactful researchers in the field.

Pierre Damien Turikumana | Mental Health | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Mr. Pierre Damien Turikumana | Mental Health | Best Researcher Award

University of Rwanda, Rwanda

Mr. Turikumana Pierre Damien, born on January 1, 1991, is a dedicated Rwandan occupational therapist, educator, and researcher based in Kigali. Currently serving as Acting Head of the Occupational Therapy Department at the University of Rwanda, he also contributes as an Assistant Lecturer. With a strong clinical and academic foundation, he has worked at CARAES Ndera Neuropsychiatric Hospital and engaged in diverse mental health and rehabilitation initiatives. Passionate about advancing inclusive care and digital health, Turikumana has authored impactful publications, led community-based interventions, and represented Rwanda in international academic platforms.

Profile

🎓 Education

Mr. Turikumana holds a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy (2021) from Stellenbosch University, South Africa, and a Bachelor’s with Honours in Occupational Therapy (2018) from the University of Rwanda. His academic training blends strong theoretical knowledge with practical clinical application in occupational rehabilitation, mental health, and community development. He also acquired certifications in clinical research, telerehabilitation, additive manufacturing in assistive tech, and teaching methodology from global institutions including Makerere University and Stellenbosch University—preparing him for multidisciplinary academic leadership and research.

💼 Experience

Turikumana currently serves as Acting Head and Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of Rwanda (2019–present). He previously worked as a full-time Occupational Therapist at CARAES Ndera Neuropsychiatric Hospital (2018–2019). His professional experience includes teaching, research supervision, clinical placement coordination, community outreach, and department leadership. He has also served as Chairperson of RWOTA and as a board member of RAHPC. International engagements in Belgium and the USA, along with ongoing collaborations, emphasize his global perspective in advancing occupational therapy in low-resource settings.

🏅 Awards & Honors

Turikumana has received several prestigious training opportunities and certificates, including a teaching and learning course from Makerere University (2024), telerehabilitation ethics training (2021), and 3D printing in assistive tech (2023). He has traveled to the USA and Belgium for academic exchange and knowledge-sharing. As Chairperson of RWOTA and board member of RAHPC, he holds national leadership roles. His selection as a WFOT video reviewer and his participation in multiple international conferences further reflect his growing influence in the occupational therapy and rehabilitation landscape.

🔬 Research Focus

Turikumana’s research focuses on rehabilitation, mental health, community-based therapy, and digital health in low-resource contexts. His published studies explore schizophrenia, occupational therapy development in Rwanda, e-therapy, and CPD needs. Ongoing projects investigate the Igisoro game in therapy, OT student experiences, lecturer burnout, and WFOT international narratives. He is also contributing to several book chapters addressing inclusive rehabilitation, psychiatric care in Africa, and telehealth interventions. His work aims to integrate evidence-based, culturally appropriate rehabilitation practices to promote equity in health outcomes and community integration.

 Conclusion

Mr. Turikumana Pierre Damien is a highly suitable and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His dedication to research, leadership in professional and academic platforms, and contributions to improving occupational therapy in Rwanda reflect excellence in his field. With continued academic progression and broader research engagement, his potential for greater impact is substantial. He exemplifies the qualities of a committed researcher, educator, and leader, making him a strong nominee for this prestigious recognition.

Publication

1. Personal barriers to participation in chosen instrumental activities of daily living among community-dwelling persons with schizophrenia in Rwanda

2. Impact of specific e‑therapy application in advancing occupational therapy intervention in a low‑resourced country: A case study of Rwanda

  • Year: 2023

  • Authors: O. Yusuph Abiodun, E. Murebwayire, T. Pierre Damien, H. Celestin, …

  • Link: World Federation of Occupational Therapists Bulletin 79(1), 72‑79 (2023) — available via institutional access or publisher’s website scirp.org+4independent.academia.edu+4scholar.google.com+4

3. Using the Igisoro Game in Occupational Therapy Rehabilitation in Rwanda: An Exploratory Study

4. The use of Igisoro game in Occupational Therapy Rehabilitation in Rwanda: A mixed method design

5. Continuing Professional Development Preferences of Occupational Therapy Providers in Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania

  • Year: 2024

  • Authors: A. M. Cecil, G. S. Kimathy, M. N. Koech, E. Murebwayire, P. D. Turikumana

  • Link: The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy 12(4), 1–13 (2024) — available via journal website

6. Stakeholders Contribution in the Development of Occupational Therapy Profession and Impact of the Profession in Rwanda

  • Year: 2022

  • Authors: O. Y. Abiodun, E. Murebwayire, T. Pierre Damien, H. Celestin, J. Nshimiyimana, …

  • Link: Open Journal of Therapy and Rehabilitation 10(4), 133–157 (2022) sciety.org+6scirp.org+6scholar.google.com+6

7. Social barriers affecting participation in chosen instrumental activities of daily living among community-dwelling persons with schizophrenia in Rwanda

8. Barriers affecting participation in chosen Instrumental Activities of Daily Living among community-dwelling persons with Schizophrenia in Rwanda

  • Year: 2021

  • Authors: P. D. Turikumana, L. G. Cloete, F. Jerome Peter

  • Link: Master’s thesis, Stellenbosch University (2021) — PDF available via academia.edu rwota.org.rw+1emerald.com+1