Dr Murat Oztok

Biography

In a broader academic context, my research delves into the realm of digital education, situated at the confluence of curriculum studies, the sociology of knowledge, and critical pedagogy. I explore the rapidly expanding utilization of digital technologies in education, demanding a profound understanding of the challenges we confront. Thus, my research is concerned with comprehending the intricacies of teaching and learning within diverse digital-age contexts, grounded in both theoretical frameworks and a practical commitment to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion. For instance, my recent book portrays online education as extension of colonial practices, wherein societal Discourses manifest and function, often engendering unjust learning conditions across various student cohorts. It underscores that unequal learning experiences are not random occurrences but rather mirror the existing societal disparities through the process of cultural reproduction.

Overall, my research challenges the a priori of digital education, which frequently extols its efficiency and productivity. Instead, my research agenda centres on the dynamic interplay among “self, knowledge, digital, and Discourses", all with the aim of fostering more equitable educational experiences and outcomes.

Research Overview

Broadly speaking, there exists a significant gap in our understanding of the distinctive attributes of online postgraduate education. My overarching objective is to initiate an inquiry into the nature of being an online postgraduate student with a keen focus on decolonizing postgraduate education. In pursuit of this goal, I employ the framework of cognitive apprenticeship to illuminate the individual learning journeys of students engaged in online postgraduate programs.

Within the scope of my current research agenda, I aim to provide both theoretical insights and practical perspectives that contribute to fostering social justice in online postgraduate education. My contention is that the concept of cognitive apprenticeship, when situated within the context of decolonization, can offer a more nuanced framework for comprehending the unique characteristics inherent in online postgraduate provision. It is only then we can work towards more inclusive and equitable online postgraduate educational experiences.

Current Research

1. Unpacking the Colonial Legacy of Online Education: Further investigate and critically analyse the colonial underpinnings within online education, examining how digital technologies may perpetuate or challenge historical inequalities and power structures.
2. Socio-Cultural Dimensions of Online Learning: Explore the socio-cultural aspects of online learning environments, emphasizing how societal Discourses influence digital education and contribute to differentiated learning experiences among diverse student populations.
3. Equity and Inclusion in Digital Education: Develop and implement strategies, both theoretical and practical, to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in digital education settings. Investigate how these strategies impact student outcomes and experiences.
4. The Role of Critical Pedagogy: Extend the application of critical pedagogy principles within digital education contexts. Investigate how critical pedagogy can inform instructional design, teaching practices, and curriculum development for more equitable educational experiences.
5. Innovative Pedagogical Approaches: Explore innovative pedagogical approaches that harness the potential of digital technologies to enhance equity and inclusivity in education. Investigate how emerging technologies, such as virtual reality or artificial intelligence, can be leveraged for educational equity.
6. Intersectionality in Digital Learning: Investigate how multiple dimensions of identity, such as race, gender, socio-economic status, and disability, intersect in the context of digital education. Analyze how these intersections influence access, participation, and outcomes.
7. Global Perspectives on Digital Education: Expand research beyond a single cultural context to explore international perspectives on digital education, considering how different sociocultural factors impact equity and inclusion.