Samuel Yigzaw
University Lecturer
School of Computing, Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology
I am a member of the Technologies for Learning and Development research group at the School of Computing. My doctoral research focused on developing a Technology‑Enhanced Knowledge Management Model tailored to the needs of higher education and research institutions in developing countries. Through an in‑depth case study of the UbuntuNet Alliance Research and Education Network across Eastern and Southern Africa, my work examined how technology-supported collaboration can strengthen research capacity and knowledge sharing in resource‑constrained contexts.
My research interests include the design of technology‑driven collaboration platforms, knowledge management systems, and educational technologies that enhance teaching, learning, and research in higher education, particularly within developing regions. I am especially interested in how local contextual factors, institutional practices, and socio‑technical dynamics influence the adoption and sustainability of such technologies.
During my PhD, I contributed to teaching and several multidisciplinary research initiatives. These included the Vauhtia Uralle project, which aimed to support flexible skill development pathways for young graduates, and the Erasmus+ project TRUE – Transparency of Learning Outcomes through Blockchain Technology, a consortium of eight academic and industry partners across Europe.
I currently teach courses in robotics, introduction to blockchain, and information systems. I also continue to participate in ongoing research activities at the School of Computing, including multiple Erasmus+ consortium projects in collaboration with European universities and technology partners.
Research groups
Publications
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A Systematic Literature Review on the Benefits of Robotics and Active Learning Methodologies for Promoting STEAM Education among Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Conde, Miguel; Rodríguez-Sedano, Francisco J.; García-Peñalvo, Francisco J.; Suganuma, Laiany; Gonçalves, José; Jormanainen, Ilkka; Yigzaw, Samuel, 2026, International journal of engineering education, 42, 1, 57-70. A2 Review article, Literature review, Systematic review -
Simulation vs. Reality: Does It Matter? Investigating Student Motivation in Robotics Course Projects in Hybrid Learning Setting
Jormanainen, Ilkka; Yigzaw, Samuel; Uwu-khaeb, Lannie; Tukiainen, Markku, 2025, Balogh, Richard; Obdržálek, David; Fachantidis, Nikolaos, Robotics in Education : Proceedings of the RiE 2025 Conference, 418-430. A4 Conference proceedings -
Intensive Robotics Course Projects Improve Higher Education Students’ Intrinsic Motivation and Learning Outcomes
Jormanainen, Ilkka; Yigzaw, Samuel; Tukiainen, Markku, 2024, Balogh, Richard; Obdržálek, David; Fislake, Martin, Robotics in Education: Proceedings of the RiE 2024 Conference, 29-41. A4 Conference proceedings

