Mrs. Rowena Merkel | Mathematics | Young Scientist Award
University of Education Freiburg | Germany
Rowena Merkel, M.Ed., is an emerging scholar and Ph.D. candidate at the Pädagogische Hochschule Freiburg, Germany, specializing in mathematics didactics and cognitive learning research. Her academic journey reflects strong interdisciplinary training, having earned a Master of Education and a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Spanish from the Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg. Currently pursuing her doctoral research in Psychology and Mathematics Didactics, Rowena focuses on understanding how digital modeling tools can foster effective cognitive learning processes in developing students’ conceptual understanding of fractions. She has served as an Academic Associate at the Pädagogische Hochschule Freiburg, where she contributed to advancing digital pedagogical innovations and teaching methodologies. Her research interests span mathematics education, cognitive engagement, digital learning environments, and instructional design in STEM education. Rowena’s recent publication, Learning Activities in a Dynamic Learning Environment to Foster a Basic Fraction Concept (International Journal of Science and Mathematics Education, 2025 cited by 7 articles*), exemplifies her contributions to developing research-based digital tools for mathematics instruction. Her academic achievements demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based education, blending theory and practice to enhance cognitive development through technology-enhanced learning. Through her innovative approach, Rowena Merkel aims to bridge psychology and pedagogy, making complex mathematical concepts accessible to diverse learners. Her work holds promise for shaping the future of mathematics education, positioning her as a dynamic and deserving nominee for the Young Scientist Award.
Profile: ORCID | LinkedIn
Featured Publications
Merkel, R., Leuders, T., Reinhold, F., & Loibl, K. (2025). Learning activities in a dynamic learning environment to foster a basic fraction concept. International Journal of Science and Mathematics Education. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10763-025-10602-6
