Enas Aref, MPM, AEP
Innovative Educator. Certified Ergonomist. Researcher. Consultant.
With more than a decade of engineering experience as my foundation, I've seamlessly transitioned into education and consultancy, driving impactful change. My journey began with a Mechanical Engineering Bachelor's in 2003 and a Master's in Project Management in 2015. Currently, I'm a doctoral instructor and researchers pursuing a doctorate in Industrial Engineering at Western Michigan University, conducting my doctoral research on the dynamic area of ergonomics. My research interests include STEM education and Engineering Management as well.
As a research-savvy professional, I value continuous learning and development. I believe that staying updated with the latest advancements enriches the learning experiences I offer. I blend this academic pursuit with a decade of industry experience, allowing me to craft practical and industry-focused learning experiences.
My instructional design approach is bolstered by a foundation of teaching skills, strong understanding of learning behaviors, my background in industrial engineering, and my expertise in ergonomics. My approach employs Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the learning process to achieve student success. By combining my pedagogical insights with the power of AI, I'm committed to driving innovation in education, improving teaching skills, and ultimately, fostering a dynamic and effective learning environment for all
I'm dedicated to providing students with not just theoretical knowledge, but tangible skills for the real world. Beyond the classroom, I design workshops that empower learners with actionable insights. I actively champion diversity and inclusion in STEM, promoting a richly diverse learning environment.
My passion lies in advancing STEM education and transforming instructional design. Join me on this journey as we explore the dynamic world of education, where my diverse knowledge and experience converge with a commitment to transformative learning. Together, we can create lasting impact for learners and professionals alike.
About
At the heart of my teaching philosophy lies an unwavering commitment to student-centered approaches. I wholeheartedly believe that by creating a safe and inclusive space, all students can excel regardless of their backgrounds or identities. My dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion is not only reflected in my curriculum but also in the classroom dynamics I cultivate, where open dialogue and respect for differing viewpoints are paramount.
Specializing in STEM education, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of nurturing young minds in these fields. By seamlessly blending theory with practical application, I empower students to embrace challenges and embark on their own journeys of discovery. Together, we unravel the complexities of STEM subjects, celebrating not only academic achievements but also the invaluable life skills cultivated through perseverance and problem-solving.
In my unwavering commitment to student success, I am resolute in my belief that education is a lifelong journey, and I am honored to guide and empower the leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow.
As a dedicated and passionate educator, I proudly bear the title of a "Champion of Student Success." With a profound understanding of student learning and a background in instructional design, I am committed to fostering an environment where every student can thrive. My journey in education has been marked by a relentless pursuit of innovative teaching methods and a deep appreciation for the diversity of learning styles.
My expertise in instructional design has allowed me to create engaging and effective learning experiences that cater to a spectrum of learners. I firmly believe in the power of active learning, continuously weaving interactive elements into my lessons to ignite curiosity and encourage critical thinking. Embracing a variety of teaching modalities, I have seamlessly transitioned between traditional classroom settings and digital platforms, harnessing technology to enhance the educational journey.
Contact Me
Collaboration Opportunities
What I offer
Curriculum Development and Instructional Design
- Instructional design expertise to develop engineering curriculum aligned to program goals and industry needs. Can update as well as create courses, assignments, and content.
- Effective utilization of Generative Artificial Intelligence ( Gen AI) tools to tailor learning materials, refine teaching strategies, and achieve optimal learning outcomes.
- Data-driven course improvement using assessment analytics and student feedback to modify instruction and better meet learning objectives.
- Industry knowledge to create internship, mentoring, and project opportunities that provide students with practical engineering experiences.
- Strategies for effective integration of technology and online learning to meet enrollment, format flexibility, and budget optimization goals.
- Evidence-based teaching methods that increase student engagement, retention, and learning outcomes. Supports student success initiatives.
- Experience teaching and developing curriculum for general engineering and specialized topics like ergonomics and design. Can expand program offerings.
- Insights on pedagogical innovations and emerging technologies to enhance teaching and align with institutional priorities for adoption.
- Ability to collect, analyze and present student performance data and program metrics to support accreditation and continuous improvement efforts.
- Knowledge of inclusive and accessible instructional strategies to help meet diversity, equity, and inclusion goals for the institution and programs.
- Published research and conference presentations that contribute to department productivity benchmarks and reinforce reputation.
Training and Workshops
- Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
- Ethical Considerations of Implementing and Using Generative Artificial Intelligence in Industry
- Effective Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Education
- Engineering Ethics
- Effective Teaching and Students Learning
- Team Dynamics and Conflict Resolution (TDCR)
- Principles of Projects and Project Management
- Leadership
- Principles of Management
- Change Management
- Ergonomics Assessments of the Workplace
- Product Design using Design Thinking and Human Centered Design concepts
Experience
Academic Courses Taught
- Engineering Statistics- IEE2610
- Engineering Seminar- ENGR 2100
- Product and Service Design- IEE3010
- Ergonomics and Design- IEE3420
- Ergonomics and Occupational Biomechanics-IEE6420
- Usability Engineering- IEE6570
Research Interests
Ergonomics and Human Factors
STEM Education
Artificial Intelligence
User Experience (UX)
Engineering Management
Consulting. Workshops. Guest Speaking. Mentoring
Collaborated with PMI- Peru Chapter in offering the following sessions
Aspects on Interculturality and Diversity in Project Management
Collaborated with V-VEER Consultancy in offering the following sessions
Establishing an Ergonomic Program at the Workplace
Introduction to AI: Opportunities for Learning and Growth
Collaborated with the Egyptian Initiative for Industry Support in offering the following sessions
Maintaining the safety of workforce during COVID-19 Pandemic
Implementation of ISO 45005:2020 and Workers Safety
Collaborated with Starting Gate WMU in offering
Unlocking Team Potential: Strategies For Conflict Management
Collaborated with Osher Lifelong Learning Institute in offering
Session 1: Ergonomically Designed, a Truth or Myth?
Session 2: Ergonomics for Mature Adults: How to navigate life with safety
Collaborated with the Egyptian Economic Court in offering
Applications of AI in the Judicial System in offering a training session for professionals in the judicial system on the opportunities and challenges of using AI in the judicial system .
Applications of AI in Healthcare
A consultation with healthcare professionals on the opportunities and challenges of using AI in healthcare.
College of Engineering and Applied Sciences WMU
Women Leadership: Conquering adversity and achieving goals
MI-LSAMP: Academic Research Explained, motivating undergraduates to participate in research
work
Mentoring and Advising
Academy Educational Advisor PMI-Peru Chapter
Academy Educational Advisor PMI-Turkey Chapter
Mentor with the e-mentoring program at the College of Engineering and Applied Science
Panelist
New TA Orientation Graduate Student Panelist organized by WMUx Office of Faculty Development
New Faculty Orientation Graduate Student Panelist organized by WMUx Office of Faculty Development
Reviewer
American Society for Engineering Education
Review professional and student papers submitted for annual and regional conferences
Industrial Design Thesis Review
Product Design - Western Michigan University 2021-2022
Product Design - Western Michigan University 2022-2023
Hilltop Review Journal
Reviewer of students' work including project and research work
Professional Development
As an educator, I value learning. Continuous professional development is a goal that I strive hard to achieve. Here are some of the endeavors that I took to achieve this goal:
La psychologie pour les enseignants
MOOC developed and delivered by Université Paris
Generative AI Overview for Project Managers
Course offered by The Project Management Institute (PMI)
Taming Bias: Using Wicked Problem Solving to Make Better Decisions & Align Teams
Course offered by The Project Management Institute (PMI)
Master Class on Effective Teaching
Course offered by The American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE)
Instructional Design Workshops
Series of workshops offered by WMUx
AI x Education Conference July 2023
AI and the Rule of Law : AI Ethics and Governance Concerning Judicial Operators
Course offered by UNESCO in collaboration with IEEE
AI and the Rule of Law :AI Adoption Across Justice Systems
Course offered by UNESCO in collaboration with IEEE
Launchpad to Fundamental Questions of Artificial Intelligence : Risks
Kiron Open Higher Education GmbH- ATINGI
AI and the Rule of Law: The Rise of Online Courts
Course offered by UNESCO in collaboration with IEEE
Artificial Intelligence for Development
Course offered by GIZ and the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development Germany
Publications
Published
- E Aref, D Idriss-Wheeler, J Hajjar (2024). Navigating Grief in Academia: Prioritizing supports for women scholars through informed approaches. - ASEE Annual Conference 2024, Portland, OR.
- Enas Aref (2024).Team Dynamics And Conflict Resolution: Integrating Gen AI in Project Based Learning to Support Students’ Performance. ASEE Annual Conference 2024, Portland, OR.
Elkefi, S., Sabra, R., Marie Hajjar, J., Idriss-Wheeler, D., & Aref, E. (2024). The role of participatory ergonomics in supporting the safety of healthcare workers; a systematic review. Theoretical Issues in Ergonomics Science, 1-47.
E Aref, TK Fredericks (2021). A New Course Development in Usability Engineering: Hands-On Learning Based on Research Work . ASEE Virtual Annual Conference Content Access, 2021
J Burns, E Aref, M Majd (2020). Assessing Instructional Effectiveness and Understanding Factors that Contribute to Student Performance in an Engineering Statistics Course: An Exploratory Study ASEE Virtual Annual Conference Content Access, 2020
E Aref, LJ Wells, R Dastorian (2020) Modeling Human Visual Discriminative Capability as a Defense Layer Against Cyber Physical Attacks - IIE Annual Conference. Proceedings, 2020- Under Review
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American Society for Engineering Management 2024
Beyond Algorithms: A Framework for Ethical Assessment of AI Applications in Industry