Dr. Hajian’s doctoral thesis “What types of feedback enhance the effectiveness of self-explanation in a simulation-based learning environment?” examines student learning and provides insight into the types of instructional feedback that would be the most beneficial to learners.

Dr. Hajian, building off her background in biological sciences, used controlled experiments and different types of instructional feedback to engage students while they learned about the concepts of the physics of waves. The research provided significant data with the goal of creating practical cognitive and metacognitive tools in educational environments to benefit learners at all levels.

Dr. Hajian’s contribution extends well beyond her written thesis. Along with many academic achievements and publications, Dr. Hajian has recently presented at the Canadian Society for the Study of Education conference in Edmonton Alberta.

Dr. Hajian’s supervisor, Dr. John Nesbit of SFU’s Faculty of Education, has a lot of praise for Dr. Hajian’s work. He says, “Drawing from an apparently inexhaustible well of ingenuity and determination, she has been able to overcome significant challenges presented by the research to obtain new insights into how the process of scientific discovery can be translated to an educational process for learning fundamental scientific concepts.”  

Dr. Hajian was delighted to receive the Dean’s Convocation Medal. Of the award she said, “Receiving this highly prestigious medal is an incredible honor that will be cherished forever. It is also a constant reminder that success is collaboratively achieved and celebrated. Behind this achievement, there are years of investigation, questioning, critical thinking, and reflection.” 

Dr. Hajian is following her passion for scientific thinking and discovery learning, by teaching research courses at SFU.