I am a Professor of Computer Engineering and Programme Leader of Electronics and Computer Engineering, a Chartered Engineer (CEng) of the IET, Chartered Manager (CMgr) of CMI and a Fellow of Higher Education Academy (UK). I’ve held several committee and leadership positions in Higher Education (HE) including representing the research community in the University Senate, chairing the research supervisory forum, and sitting on faculty research degree boards.
As someone who has completed most of my Postgraduate Education in the UK as an international student, I can identify with the challenges of both local and international students. As one of the less than 1% of UK black professors who can also be identified with the youngest age group of UK professors, I am passionate about supporting students and colleagues of all backgrounds at various levels in providing an excellent learning and teaching experience.
My passion for pedagogic research in HE has grown strongly to focus on student engagement, race equality, student award and education gap, and international ethnic minority student and staff experiences in HE. I have been actively involved in researching these areas, and influencing policy, as well as creating and delivering research-informed workshops and training in DEI. I provide strategic approaches to decolonising education, learning, teaching and assessment and ensuring an inclusive environment for staff and students.
UNIC provides me with the best platform to make a strong impact in supporting the learning experience of international students and to inspire students of all backgrounds through my lived experience. I am passionate about reducing the award gap and want all students to have the opportunity to reach their best potential. UNIC not only creates an opportunity, but also serves as the first line of contact and a transition medium for our international students into the university. It is a blessing to be part of a team that is passionate about creating opportunities and equipping students with the right skill set at the right standard that enhances their learning at experience in the UK.
Prof. Michael Opoku Agyeman
University of Northampton International College (UNIC)
Michael is the author of over 80 peer-reviewed publications: five books, two book chapters, over 16 journals and 32 conference papers. In 2019, he won the Diamond Early Career Research Award at the University of Northampton. He is also a winner of the University of Northampton’s 2018 International Changemaker of the year award. Michael’s research interest spans three main strands and disciplines: 1. Electronics and Computer Engineering; 2. Business and Management (Neuromarketing, advertising and marketing research) and 3. Pedagogy (Education Research).
Michael has a PhD in Embedded and Distributed Systems (Electrical/Electronics/Computer Engineering) and a MSc. degree in Embedded and Distributed Systems. He also holds a BSc. (Hons.) in Electrical and Electronics Engineering and four teaching qualifications.