Rate My Professor Atsusi Hirumi

Dr. Atsusi Hirumi is a Professor of Instructional Design and Technology in the Department of Learning Sciences and Educational Research at the University of Central Florida's College of Community Innovation and Education. Born in New York, he spent most of his formative years growing up in East Africa. He earned a B.S. in biology from Purdue University with secondary teacher certification in biology and general science, an M.A. in Educational Technology from San Diego State University, and a Ph.D. in Instructional Systems from Florida State University. Dr. Hirumi joined the University of Central Florida in August 2003 as an associate professor and was promoted to full professor in 2019. He currently serves as Graduate Program Director for the Ph.D. in Education (Learning Sciences track), M.A. in Instructional Design and Technology, and related graduate certificates in Instructional/Educational Technology.

Dr. Hirumi's academic interests center on the design and sequencing of e-learning interactions, as well as developing systems to train and empower K-12, university, and corporate educators in the design, development, and delivery of interactive distance education programs. His research advances the design of online and hybrid learning environments by integrating elements of story, game, and play with experiential learning principles to evoke human emotions and imagination through the InterPLAY approach. Areas of expertise include instructional design and technology, e-learning, online learning, and technology-enhanced learning. He has published over a dozen refereed journal articles, several book chapters, and delivered over 50 presentations at international, national, and state conferences. Key publications include 'The Design and Sequencing of eLearning Interactions: A Grounded Approach' (2002, cited over 300 times), 'Preparing Instructional Designers for Game-Based Learning: Part 1' (TechTrends, 2010), 'Three Levels of Planned eLearning Interactions' (Quarterly Review of Distance Education, 2013), and recent works such as 'AI-Assisted Evidence-Informed Practice: Reclaiming the Scientific Foundations of Instructional Design-Part I (Why)' and 'Part II (How)' (TechTrends, 2026). Notable awards include the Texas Distance Learning Association award for commitment to excellence and innovation, the Star Faculty Award for outstanding teaching, research, and service, and recognition as the only two-time recipient of the WebCT exemplary online course award.