Michael Pazinas

Hi! I'm Michael Pazinas and I am a co-founder at CreativeLab21 and have been an educator since 2000. Prior to this, I was involved in business management and training, though I didn't really see a future in this - So I decided to teach instead. I have taught English to learners ranging from preschool age to doctoral students on pre-sessional courses and my employers have included the University of Exeter, the British Council and universities in both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

I have also worked for the University of Cambridge (ESOL) examining hundreds of candidates taking English proficiency examinations including CPE, CAE, FCE, PET, KET and Young Learner Examinations. In 2013, Cambridge University Press asked me to consult on mobile content for them and then they asked me to write active learning research modules in their Unlock Series Teacher's Book. I have also trained and worked as a graphic and instructional designer and have helped to shape materials and courses on pre-sessional and foundation programs at universities. I have trained university faculty in the use of mobile technology and pedagogy and I am an Apple Distinguished Educator and Apple Lead Education Trainer for the Middle East.

I was heavily involved as one of the organisers of the first International Mobile Learning Conference at the United Arab Emirates University and I currently work there as Curriculum and Learning Technologies Coordinator. I am leading a team in the establishment of an innovative, adapted Challenge-based learning language course. I have also helped to develop series of iBooks and aided in establishing the university's iTunes U English language courses.

As far as my education goes, I have a Masters, Postgraduate Certificate and Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), I have an advanced certificate in Graphic Design (Brand Identity and Print Design) and hold a BA (Hons) in Business Studies. I'm currently undertaking a PhD in e-research and technology enhanced learning.