Anna Cavallaro | Psychology | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Anna Cavallaro | Psychology | Research Excellence Award

University of Bari | Italy

Dr. Anna Cavallaro, a PhD Candidate in Gender Studies at the University of Bari, is an emerging scholar specializing in developmental and educational psychology with a strong focus on study strategies, digital learning processes, and eye-tracking methodologies. She holds a Master’s degree in Modern Philology with a specialization in teaching, training, and research, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Modern Humanities from the University of Salerno. Her professional experience includes serving as an Adjunct Teaching Assistant in the Experimental Pedagogy and Educational Technologies Lab at the University of Salerno and as an Academic Tutor in Psychology of E-learning at the University of Bari, roles through which she contributes to instructional innovation and student mentorship. She has also expanded her international research experience as a visiting researcher at the University of Oslo. Dr. Cavallaro is an active member of a nationally funded research project on digital learning, where she investigates socio-cognitive and emotional-motivational factors influencing students’ engagement with digital materials. Her research output includes peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and contributions to edited volumes addressing gender stereotypes, inclusive digital pedagogies, and the integration of eye-tracking tools in educational research. She has presented her work at international conferences, delivered seminars, and contributed to symposia on technology-enhanced learning and gender studies. Skilled in both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, she is proficient in the use of NVivo, R Studio, and eye-tracking technologies for data collection and analysis. Dr. Cavallaro’s academic achievements and growing portfolio of scholarly publications reflect her commitment to advancing knowledge in gender-responsive education and evidence-based instructional practices, positioning her as a strong candidate for the Research Excellence Award.

Profiles: ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Cavallaro, A., & Ligorio, M. B. (2025). Gender comparison of factors involved in self-study activities with digital tools: A mixed study using an eye tracker and interviews. Education Sciences.

2. Cavallaro, A., Ventrella, A., & Ligorio, M. B. (2025). Italian college students’ study strategies integrating digital technology: A multilevel analysis comparing gender and STEM versus non-STEM students. In Methodologies and Intelligent Systems for Technology Enhanced Learning (pp. 230–238). Springer.

3. Cavallaro, A. (2025). Il background teorico e gli studi sugli eye tracker. In F. Faiella (Ed.), Eyetracking glasses per migliorare la didattica. FrancoAngeli.

4. Cavallaro, A. (2025). Superare gli stereotipi di genere: Digital learning e pedagogia generativa per un orientamento professionale inclusivo e autodeterminato. Attualità Pedagogiche.

5. Cavallaro, A. (2024). Linguaggio e stereotipi: Osservazioni sui ruoli di genere nei libri di testo scolastici. Cooperazione Educativa, 3, 68–74.

Dr. Anna Cavallaro’s research advances evidence-based educational practices by integrating gender analysis, digital learning, and eye-tracking methodologies to better understand and support diverse learners. Her work contributes to more inclusive pedagogical models, informing policy, instructional design, and technological innovation in education.

Dr. Brittany Dale | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Brittany Dale | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Associate professor Ball State University, United States

Dr. Brittany A. Dale is a tenured Associate Professor of Special Education at Ball State University, specializing in autism spectrum disorders and school psychology. With a Ph.D. in School Psychology and post-doctoral training in neurodevelopmental disabilities, she has built a distinguished academic and clinical career. Dr. Dale has authored over 25 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals, focusing on autism assessment, cognitive profiling, and interprofessional collaboration in educational settings. Her work bridges research and practice, addressing real-world challenges such as virtual assessment and equity in psychoeducational evaluations. In addition to her research, she actively mentors graduate students, teaches specialized courses in autism, and serves as a licensed psychologist and independent school psychologist. Her scholarly contributions demonstrate a sustained commitment to advancing knowledge, improving practices, and fostering inclusive education for neurodiverse populations. Dr. Dale’s impactful, interdisciplinary work positions her as a strong candidate for recognition through the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile 

Education

Dr. Brittany A. Dale holds a Ph.D. in School Psychology from Ball State University, completed in 2009, with a specialization in counseling. Her doctoral program was APA-accredited, and her dissertation focused on cognitive assessment across diverse preschool populations. She also earned an M.A. in School Psychology from Ball State University (2006), within a NASP-accredited program, and a B.A. in Psychology from Northwestern University (2004). Following her doctorate, Dr. Dale completed a post-doctoral fellowship through the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND) Program at the Indiana University School of Medicine. This intensive 2000-hour fellowship emphasized assessment of autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities. Additionally, she completed a 2000-hour APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at Cummins Behavioral Health. Her rigorous and diverse academic preparation laid the foundation for her interdisciplinary expertise in education, clinical psychology, and autism spectrum disorders, establishing her as a qualified and well-rounded scholar-practitioner in the field of special education and psychological assessment.

Professional Experience

Dr. Brittany A. Dale has built a robust professional career integrating academia, clinical practice, and school-based psychology. She currently serves as a tenured Associate Professor of Special Education at Ball State University, where she has taught since 2010 in various faculty roles. Her teaching includes both graduate and undergraduate courses focused on autism, assessment, and intervention. Previously, she served as a graduate advisor and has mentored numerous students in the areas of special education and applied behavior analysis. Clinically, Dr. Dale has worked for nearly a decade as a licensed psychologist at the Center for Psychological Development, conducting comprehensive assessments and supervising doctoral students. She also serves as an independent contract school psychologist with Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation, providing psychoeducational evaluations in early childhood education. Her career reflects a unique and impactful blend of teaching, clinical practice, and applied research that directly supports children with disabilities and the professionals who serve them.

Research Interest

Dr. Dale’s research interests center on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), cognitive and psychoeducational assessment, and the intersection of school psychology with interdisciplinary collaboration. She is particularly focused on improving diagnostic practices and treatment planning for children with autism and other developmental disabilities. Her work often addresses real-world challenges such as tele-assessment, cultural considerations in evaluation, and educational service delivery for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students. Dr. Dale has also contributed to the literature on assessment tools like the WISC-V, Bayley-4, and WAIS-5, frequently collaborating with national experts on cognitive development and standardized testing. She explores both quantitative and qualitative approaches to enhance diagnostic precision and educational outcomes. Additionally, she examines the implementation of social-emotional learning strategies and individualized education plans (IEPs) through school-based consultations. Dr. Dale’s research is not only academically rigorous but also deeply rooted in practice, with strong implications for policy, clinical protocols, and educational interventions.

Award and Honor

While specific named awards are not listed in the CV, Dr. Brittany Dale’s academic and professional track record reflects recognition through sustained tenure, peer-reviewed publications, and collaborative projects with leading scholars in psychology and education. Being promoted to tenured Associate Professor at Ball State University signifies institutional recognition of her contributions to teaching, research, and service. Her inclusion as a co-author in high-impact journals, such as Psychology in the Schools, Journal of Intelligence, and Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, reflects strong peer endorsement of her research quality. Dr. Dale has collaborated with esteemed psychologists such as Alan S. Kaufman, further validating her credibility in the field. Additionally, she has served as a content specialist for autism-focused coursework, underscoring her expertise. While formal awards might enhance visibility, her ongoing publication record and leadership in autism assessment position her as a distinguished contributor worthy of competitive research accolades such as the Best Researcher Award.

Conclusion

Dr. Brittany A. Dale exemplifies the qualities of a well-rounded academic researcher, clinical practitioner, and educator. With a solid educational foundation, she has translated her training into a career of meaningful impact in special education, autism assessment, and school psychology. Her prolific research output—covering timely and practice-oriented topics—demonstrates a deep commitment to advancing both science and service for neurodiverse populations. Her ability to integrate clinical expertise, university teaching, and collaborative scholarship sets her apart as a leader in the field. Dr. Dale’s work is characterized by academic rigor, real-world relevance, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Though not widely decorated with traditional awards, her scholarly reputation is evident through publication, institutional advancement, and professional licensing. She stands out as a dedicated scholar whose research has direct implications for educators, clinicians, and families. As such, Dr. Dale is a highly suitable candidate for recognition through the Best Researcher Award and similar honors.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Dyadic mechanisms of effect in home–school consultation: Evidence from two school-based consultation models

    • Authors: Brittany A. Dale, Lindsey N. Ogle, Lisa A. Ruble, Gazi F. Azad

    • Year: 2025

  • Title: Does the Degree of Prematurity Relate to the Bayley‑4 Scores Earned…

    • Authors: Emily L. Winter, Jacqueline M. Caemmerer, Sierra M. Trudel, Johanna deLeyer-Tiarks, Melissa A. Bray, Brittany A. Dale, Alan S. Kaufman

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 1

  • Title: Assessment for DHH With Additional Disabilities (Book Chapter)

    • Authors: Nena R. Neild, Brittany A. Dale, Michael Fitzpatrick

    • Year: 2023

  • Title: Integrating evaluation data to enhance treatment planning for students with ASD

    • Authors: Melissa A. Bray, Brittany A. Dale

    • Year: 2023

  • Title: Performance of children with ASD on the WISC‑V ancillary index scales

    • Authors: Brittany A. Dale, William Holmes Finch, Kassie A. R. Shellabarger

    • Year: 2023

  • Title: School psychologists and autism identification: Present challenges and potential solutions

    • Authors: Suzanne G. Margiano, Kari A. Sassu, Brittany A. Dale, Jacqueline M. Caemmerer, Melissa A. Bray, Emily Peters

    • Year: 2023

  • Title: Supporting practitioners in school-based evaluations of autism spectrum disorders

    • Authors: Sarah W. Harry, Kayla E. Bates-Brantley, Breya L. Whitefield, Brittany A. Dale

    • Year: 2023

  • Title: Comparison of Verbal Performance of Children with ASD on the WISC‑V

    • Authors: Brittany A. Dale, W. Holmes Finch, Kassie A. R. Shellabarger, Andrew Davis

    • Year: 2022

  • Title: Bayley‑4 performance of very young children with autism, developmental delay…

    • Authors: Brittany A. Dale, Jacqueline M. Caemmerer, Emily L. Winter, Alan S. Kaufman

    • Year: 2022

  • Title: Collaborative approaches to autism spectrum disorder assessment

    • Authors: Brittany A. Dale, Melissa A. Bray

    • Year: 2022

  • Title: WISC‑V Profiles of Children With ASD Using CART Analysis

    • Authors: Brittany A. Dale, W. Holmes Finch, Kassie A. R. Shellabarger, Andrew Davis

    • Year: 2021

  • Title: Interprofessional Collaboration in School-Based Settings, Part 3

    • Authors: Natalie A. Kruzliakova, Brittany A. Dale, Leslie J. Remache, Constance E. McIntosh, Jayanthi Kandiah

    • Year: 2021

  • Title: Interprofessional Collaboration in School-Based Settings, Part 2

    • Authors: Brittany A. Dale, Natalie A. Kruzliakova, Constance E. McIntosh, Jayanthi Kandiah

    • Year: 2021

  • Title: Profile analysis of the PAI‑A for individuals with ASD

    • Authors: Elizabeth Hooks, Brittany A. Dale, Maria E. Hernandez Finch

    • Year: 2021

  • Title: Assessment needs of families with children who are DHH referred for ASD evaluation

    • Authors: Brittany A. Dale, Raschelle Neild

    • Year: 2020

EUGENIA MANDAL | Social Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. EUGENIA MANDAL | Social Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Katowice, Institute of Psychology, University of Silesia Katowice, Poland

Professor Eugenia Mandal, PhD, Dlitt, is a distinguished Polish psychologist specializing in social and clinical psychology. She graduated with an MA in Psychology from the University of Silesia in 1980, later earning a PhD in 1990 and a DLitt in 2000. In 2010, she was awarded the title of Professor of Humanities by the President of Poland. She serves at the University of Silesia, holding key academic and leadership positions. Professor Mandal is an influential voice in gender studies, interpersonal relations, and social psychology. She has authored over 210 academic works, including influential books such as Love, Power, and Manipulation in Close Relations and Femininity and Masculinity: Popular Opinions and Academic Research. A recipient of numerous state honors, she founded the Polish Society for the Psychology of Close Relations in 2018. Her research, teaching, and mentorship have profoundly impacted psychology in Poland and beyond.

Profile 

Education 

Professor Mandal’s academic journey began at the University of Silesia, where she earned an MA in Psychology in 1980, focusing on Clinical Psychology. She completed her PhD in Psychology in 1990 at the same institution, furthering her expertise in interpersonal dynamics and social influence. In 2000, she was conferred a DLitt in Psychology by the Polish Academy of Sciences in Warsaw, an accolade signifying her contribution to psychological scholarship. Her academic achievements culminated in 2010 when she was awarded the title of Professor of Humanities in Psychology by the President of Poland. This title underscored her leadership in gender studies, social psychology, and interpersonal relations. Throughout her career, Professor Mandal has continuously advanced psychological science, enriching the academic community through her groundbreaking research, innovative psychological assessments, and active engagement in academic societies.

Research Focus 

Professor Eugenia Mandal’s research delves into the complexities of human psychology, particularly in close interpersonal relationships. Her work spans a variety of topics, including the psychology of power, social influence, and gender dynamics. She explores emotional states in relationships, such as jealousy, manipulation, support, and devotion, alongside self-image and body image issues. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates elements of social psychology, clinical psychology, and gender studies. Professor Mandal has developed psychological tools for assessing persuasion tactics and relational dynamics, contributing to the understanding of human behavior. Her research extends to the socio-cultural consequences of gender stereotypes, the psychology of femininity and masculinity, and the interplay of attractiveness and social influence. Through extensive publications and reports for institutions like the World Bank, she has shaped academic and practical discourse on gender equity, interpersonal dynamics, and psychological resilience.

Publications 

  • 📚 Podmiotowe i interpersonalne konsekwencje stereotypów związanych z płcią (2000)
  • 📖 Kobiecość i męskość: Popularne opinie a badania naukowe (2003)
  • ❤️ Miłość, władza i manipulacja w bliskich związkach (2008, 2009, 2011, 2012)
  • 🤝 Konflikty między ludźmi (2011)
  • Beauty and social influence. Adonization and its correlations (2014)
  • 👩‍💼 Stereotypowe postrzeganie ról kobiet i mężczyzn jako wyznacznik karier zawodowych (2004)
  • 🌍 Self-presentational modesty across cultures: The effects of gender and social context in the workplace (1997)
  • 🔑 The need for power, sense of power, and directiveness in female and male superiors (2018)
  • 🌺 Psychiczna kobiecość i męskość, poczucie własnej atrakcyjności, style przywiązania (2010)
  • 🧠 Psychological masculinity, femininity and tactics of manipulation in patients with BPD (2013)
  • 💔 Style przywiązania, traumatyczne doświadczenia i próby samobójcze u kobiet (2012)
  • 💼 Kobiety i mężczyźni a praca zawodowa (2007)
  • 🤔 The stereotypes of man and woman in Poland-content and factor structures (2012)
  • 🌱 Socjalizacja ról społecznych związanych z płcią (1995)
  • 💕 Reinforcement sensitivity, goals, and relational aggression in romantic relationships (2021)
  • 🚶‍♀️ Do Polish never-married singles feel stigmatized? (2016)
  • 🧍‍♀️ Ciało jako proces–ciało jako obiekt (2004)
  • 🌸 Childhood violence, loss, and hurt in adult relationships as suicide risk factors (2012)
  • 👫 Masculinity and femininity in everyday life: Introduction (2012)

Eleftheria Sfakianaki | Social psychology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Eleftheria Sfakianaki | Social psychology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. of social psychology, Hellenic Open University, Greece

Eleftheria Sfakianaki, born on September 10, 1968, in Heraklion, Crete, is a distinguished psychologist specializing in social and organizational psychology. With a Ph.D. in social psychology, she has an extensive background in both academic and professional settings. Eleftheria is known for her contributions to education, counseling, and her active role in European programs supporting vulnerable social groups.

Profile

Google Scholar

Evaluation for Best Researcher Award: Eleftheria Sfakianaki

Strengths:

  1. Academic Qualifications and Experience:
    • Eleftheria Sfakianaki holds a PhD in Social Psychology from Panteion University of Athens, along with degrees from the University of Athens and the University Francois Rabelais. This extensive academic background highlights her deep knowledge and expertise in psychology.
    • Her teaching experience at the Hellenic Open University and the Higher Pedagogical Training School (ASPETE) showcases her ability to convey complex psychological concepts and her commitment to education.
  2. Professional and Research Experience:
    • Sfakianaki has been involved in the management and implementation of European programs for NGOs, focusing on the inclusion of vulnerable social groups. This work demonstrates her dedication to applying psychological principles to real-world problems.
    • As a psychologist and consultant in professional orientation, she has significant hands-on experience counseling adolescents and parents, enhancing her practical understanding of psychological issues.
  3. Research and Publications:
    • Her research focuses on social representations, professional counseling, and vocational guidance, with studies comparing social representations among young Europeans and analyzing university social representations in Greece.
    • Sfakianaki has published in reputable journals such as Acta Psychologica and the International Scientific Educational Journal “educ@tional circle.” Her work addresses critical areas in social psychology and education.
  4. Special Skills and Seminars:
    • She possesses strong skills in statistical data analysis (SPSS) and has undergone extensive training in psychometric tools, personnel selection, and evaluation.
    • Her participation in various seminars on psychometric tools and HR management indicates her continuous effort to stay updated with the latest methodologies and techniques in psychology.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. International Collaboration:
    • While Sfakianaki has published and presented her research, increasing collaboration with international researchers could broaden the impact of her work and provide new perspectives and methodologies.
  2. Broader Range of Publications:
    • Although she has several publications, targeting higher-impact international journals could further enhance her research visibility and recognition in the global academic community.
  3. Grant Acquisition:
    • Securing more research grants from prominent funding agencies could provide additional resources for her research projects and validate the significance of her work.
  4. Language Proficiency:
    • While she is fluent in French and English, improving her proficiency in other languages like Italian and German could facilitate broader international collaboration and access to a wider range of academic resources.

 

🎓 Education:

Eleftheria’s academic journey is marked by notable achievements, including a Ph.D. in Social Psychology from Panteion University of Athens (2019). She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Athens (2005) and a Maitrise in Social and Organizational Psychology from the University Francois Rabelais, France (1995). Her educational foundation was further strengthened with a degree in Psychology from the College of Athens (2002), and earlier, she studied French at the University Blaise Pascal of Clermont Ferrand (1992).

💼 Experience:

Eleftheria has amassed significant teaching experience, notably as a collaborative teaching staff member at the Hellenic Open University (2021-2023) and a scientific collaborator at the Higher Pedagogical Training School – ASPETE (2018-2022). Professionally, she has been a psychologist and consultant since 2007, specializing in professional orientation and adolescent-parental counseling. Her work includes managing and participating in European programs for NGOs, focusing on the inclusion of vulnerable social groups in Athens and Heraklion.

🔬 Research Interests:

Eleftheria’s research interests revolve around social psychology, particularly the social representations of young people, professional counseling, and educational strategies for socially vulnerable groups. She has conducted comparative studies on social representations among young Europeans and investigated the core elements of university social representations among Greek youth.

🏆 Awards and Recognitions:

Eleftheria’s dedication to her field has earned her recognition as a pivotal figure in social and organizational psychology. Her commitment to education and counseling has positively impacted numerous students and professionals, fostering a deeper understanding of social psychology in various educational settings.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. Sfakianaki, E. (2024). “Conditionality and the Negotiation of Core Elements in University Social Representations.” Acta Psychologica, 248. Link to article
    Cited by articles on social psychology and educational studies.
  2. Stratakis, T., & Sfakianaki, E. (2023). “Counseling and Vocational Counseling in Secondary Education for Socially Vulnerable Groups.” International Scientific Educational Journal “educ@tional circle”, 11(3), 82-92. Link to article
    Cited by articles on counseling and vocational guidance.
  3. Φιλιπποπούλου, Α., & Σφακιανάκη, Ε. (2024). “Κοινωνικές αναπαραστάσεις των εκπαιδευτικών δευτεροβάθμιας εκπαίδευσης νομού Χανίων για την συμβουλευτική διάσταση του ρόλου τους στο σύγχρονο πολυπολιτισμικό σχολείο.” Επιθεώρηση Συμβουλευτικής – Προσανατολισμού, 135-136, 55-66. Link to article
    Cited by articles on educational counseling and multicultural education.

Conclusion:

Eleftheria Sfakianaki is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her extensive academic qualifications, significant teaching experience, and dedication to research in social psychology and professional counseling. Her involvement in European programs for vulnerable social groups and her practical experience in counseling adolescents and parents underscore her commitment to applying psychological principles to benefit society. By focusing on international collaborations, targeting higher-impact journals, securing more research grants, and improving language proficiency, Sfakianaki can further strengthen her candidacy and make even more substantial contributions to the field of psychology.