Şirin Karadeniz

Professor Dr. Şirin Karadeniz, an esteemed figure in the field of educational technology, boasts a rich educational background and an impressive career that spans various leadership roles and impactful contributions to education. With a Bachelor's degree in Computer System Education, a Master's degree in Computer Education, and a Ph.D. in Educational Technology, her academic journey has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Prof. Karadeniz's expertise has been widely recognized through her extensive publications, lectures, and seminars on the integration of cutting-edge technologies into educational practices, the development of learning designs to nurture 21st-century competencies, and the promotion of STEAM education, aligning with the modern demands of the educational landscape.

Her illustrious career encompasses leadership roles such as President of Bahçeşehir University (BAU) from 2019 to 2023. Additionally, she served as the Vice Chairman of the International Training Center for Authorities and Leaders, CIFAL Istanbul, an esteemed center affiliated with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR).

Before this, Prof. Karadeniz held positions as the Dean of the Faculty of Educational Sciences, Chairman of the Innovative Education & Research Center, and Chairman of the Center for Teaching & Learning. She also actively contributed to organizations like the Turkish Industry & Business Association, the Association of the Future of Education, and the Foundation of Bahçeşehir Uğur Educational Institutions.

A notable highlight of her career is her leadership in developing curricula for computer science, artificial intelligence, global citizenship, and climate change, catering to learners of all ages. She has also been dedicated to enhancing digital literacy among teachers and fostering educational and technology leadership among school principals.

Prof. Karadeniz's commitment to education is further demonstrated through her role as an Academic Commission Member in developing Computer Science and Software curricula for primary, secondary, and high schools under the Ministry of National Education of Türkiye from 2016 to 2017. Since 2016, she has led the Research & Development of the Harezmi Educational Model of Istanbul Directorate of National Education, and she continues to lead the dissemination of this model to all schools in Türkiye.

In recognition of her unwavering dedication to elevating the quality of education and increasing its inclusivity, Prof. Karadeniz received the Woman Educator of the Year award in the Women's Leaders of Technology prize organized by Microsoft and The Women Entrepreneurs Association of Turkey in 2016. She also earned the BAU Social Benefit Award in 2018.

Furthermore, Professor Karadeniz has generously lent her expertise to national and international projects, acting as a consultant, researcher, and leader for esteemed institutions such as the Scientific Research Council, the Ministry of National Education of Türkiye, UNICEF, the Rotary Foundation, the World Bank, and the European Union. Her contributions continue to shape the future of education on a global scale.