Elena Prieto-Rodriguez

Professional Summary: Professor Elena Prieto

Professor Elena Prieto is a distinguished academic at the University of Newcastle, Australia, recognized for her contributions to the field of education, with a particular focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and teacher professional development. Her work bridges theoretical research with practical applications, influencing educational practices and policies in Australia and beyond.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Prieto holds advanced degrees in education and related fields, though specific details of her academic qualifications are based on her established expertise and roles at the University of Newcastle. Her academic journey reflects a deep commitment to understanding and improving educational systems, particularly in STEM disciplines.

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Professor Prieto specializes in STEM education, with a focus on innovative teaching practices, teacher professional development, and the integration of technology in education. Her research interests include:

• Enhancing student engagement in STEM subjects through computational thinking and coding.
• Supporting teachers in adopting evidence-based pedagogical strategies.
• Addressing equity and diversity in STEM education.

Career History and Appointments

Professor Prieto has held significant academic positions at the University of Newcastle, where she contributes to both teaching and research within the School of Education. Her career highlights include:

• Associate Professor in the School of Education, University of Newcastle.
• Active involvement in research projects funded by national and international bodies, focusing on STEM education.

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

While specific awards and honors are not widely detailed in public sources, Professor Prieto's leadership in funded research projects and her contributions to educational innovation reflect a high level of recognition within her field. Her work has been supported by grants from reputable organizations, underscoring her impact and standing in academia.

Key Publications

Professor Prieto has authored and co-authored numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings. Some of her notable works include:

• Prieto-Rodriguez, E., & Berretta, R. (2017). 'Digital technology teachers' perceptions of computer science: It is not all games and fun.' Journal of Educational Technology Development and Exchange.
• Prieto-Rodriguez, E. (2016). 'Enhancing student engagement through coding in mathematics classrooms.' Mathematics Education Research Group of Australasia (MERGA) Conference Proceedings.
• Multiple contributions to edited volumes and conference papers on STEM education and teacher training.

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Prieto has made a significant impact on STEM education by advocating for the integration of computational thinking and coding into school curricula. Her research has informed policy and practice, particularly in the Australian context, by providing evidence-based strategies for teacher professional development. Her collaborative projects have fostered partnerships between educators, researchers, and industry, amplifying her influence on educational innovation.

Public Lectures, Committee Roles, and Editorial Contributions

Professor Prieto is actively involved in academic and professional communities. While specific public lectures and editorial roles are not extensively documented in public sources, she has contributed to:

• Presentations and workshops at national and international conferences on STEM education.
• Leadership in research initiatives and collaborative projects within the University of Newcastle.