Jianwei Zhang

Dr. Jianwei Zhang is an Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Theory and Practice (ETAP) at the University at Albany, State University of New York. His research explores social and cognitive dynamics of collaborative learning and knowledge building supported by new technology, funded by National Science Foundation (NSF) and other sources. To support the dynamic knowledge processes, Dr. Zhang created Idea Thread Mapper (ITM) (with computer scientist Dr. Mei-Hwa Chen), a visual collaboration platform that supports knowledge building in each classroom and idea interaction across communities. A rich set of learning analytics has been tested and incorporated to enhance students’ collaborative discourse and teacher scaffolding.

Dr. Zhang’s research was recognized through several awards (e.g., best paper award from ETR&D in 2007 and 2010, Distinguished Public Engagement Award of the University at Albany in 2023). He currently serves as Co-Editor in Chief of the Journal of the Learning Sciences, a flagship journal of the International Society of the Learning Sciences. He was recently inducted as a Fellow of the International Society of the Learning Sciences. More information about Dr. Zhang’s research and teaching projects can be found here.