Daniela Mela
- 01202 962319
- dmela at bournemouth dot ac dot uk
- Demonstrator In Online Journalism
- Weymouth House W107, Talbot Campus, Fern Barrow, Poole, BH12 5BB
Biography
Daniela Mela is a Demonstrator in Online Communication and Journalism Production and a Postgraduate Researcher at Bournemouth University, where she specializes in real-time animation, digital tools, and educational technologies. With over 9 years of experience in higher education, Daniela has a strong background in digital communication, media production, and marketing strategies.
Her academic journey includes pursuing a PhD in Real-time Animation, where she explores the integration of Unreal Engine and AI-driven technologies to enhance learning experiences and student engagement. Daniela is also a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (HEA), a recognition of her commitment to high standards in teaching and learning.
Daniela’s research interests focus on the intersection of animation, real-time technologies, and education, with particular emphasis on how these tools can be applied to learning technologies and communication strategies. Her contributions to the film industry and educational projects, such as creating animations for NaariSamata, a gender equality charity, highlight her ability to bridge the gap between creative industries and educational practice...
In addition to her research, Daniela actively contributes to curriculum development, delivering workshops in web design, digital communication and marketing online. Her work encourages students to engage with industry-standard tools and prepares them for success in the fast-evolving fields of journalism, communication, marketing and media production.
moreResearch
Title: Real-Time Animation Applied to Learning Technologies and Education
Overview:
My research explores the potential of real-time animation technology as a transformative tool in educational settings. Titled "Real-Time Animation Applied to Learning Technologies and Education", this PhD project investigates how real-time animation can be used to enhance learning experiences, particularly by improving engagement, knowledge retention, and comprehension of complex concepts across various fields.
Objectives:
The primary aim of my research is to evaluate the effectiveness of real-time animation in supporting and enhancing learning outcomes within both formal and informal educational contexts. This involves designing, developing, and assessing interactive, animation-based learning environments that leverage state-of-the-art technology, such as Unreal Engine and AI-powered animation tools.
Key research questions include:
How does real-time animation influence student engagement and motivation compared to traditional teaching methods?
What are the advantages and limitations of using real-time animation for complex, abstract, or challenging topics?
How can real-time animation be effectively implemented to cater to diverse learning styles and educational needs, including those of individuals with special educational requirements?
Methodology:
My research utilises a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative analyses to assess the impact of real-time animation on educational outcomes... This includes:.
The development of prototype learning modules using real-time animation software, which will be tested in controlled educational settings.
Comparative studies that contrast traditional learning approaches with animation-based teaching methods.
Feedback collection from educators and learners to refine and optimise the application of real-time animation in diverse educational contexts.
Contribution to the Field:
This study contributes to the growing field of educational technology by providing evidence-based insights into the use of real-time animation as an educational tool. It aims to bridge gaps in existing literature concerning the practical applications of real-time animation in teaching, particularly in relation to its benefits for various learner demographics.
The research outcomes are anticipated to offer educators, trainers, and instructional designers practical guidelines for incorporating real-time animation into their pedagogical practices. Additionally, the study addresses ethical and practical considerations surrounding the integration of advanced animation technologies in educational environments, including the potential for AI-driven personalisation in learning.
Relevance to the NCCA Research Centre:
As a researcher affiliated with the NCCA Research Centre, my work aligns with the centre's commitment to pioneering advancements in media technology and educational innovation. By investigating real-time animation within an educational framework, my research seeks to push the boundaries of how technology can be harnessed to create immersive, engaging, and inclusive learning experiences.
moreExpertise related to UN Sustainable Development Goals
In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. This person's work contributes towards the following SDGs:
Zero hunger
"End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture"
Quality education
"Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all"
Films
- Educational Animation for NaariSamatā, 2023. Film. Available from: https://danielamela.artstation.com/projects/BXaKvk.
- Everlight, 2023. Film. Real Blast. Available from: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt30986417/.
Profile of Teaching PG
- Marketing & PR for Writers, Level 7 - Web Design, Social Media & Online Graphic Design
- Marketing & PR for Writers (Online), Level 7 - Web Design, Social Media & Online Graphic Design
- Digital Journalism, Level 7 - Blog, Data Visualisation & Shorthand
- Journalism Project, Level 7 - Blog, Data Visualisation & Shorthand
- Multimedia Reporting Skills, Level 7 - Blog & Online Graphic Design
Profile of Teaching UG
- News & Journalism, Level 6 - Social Media Engagement and Blogs
- Research for Journalism, Level 4 - Online Graphic Design
- Advertising Portfolio Development, Level 6 - Web Design
- Converged News Days, Level 6am - Blog, Social Media & Data Visualisation
- Digital Essentials, Level 4 - Web Design, Online Graphic Design & Social Media
- News & Storytelling, Level 5 - Blog & Social Media
- Marketing Communications Portfolio, Level 6 - Blog, Online Graphic Design & Social Media
- Long-form Storytelling, Level 6 - Shorthand for Immersive Web Content
- Major Multimedia Project, Level 6 - Blog & Shorthand for Immersive Web Content
- News & Storytelling 2, Level 5 - Blog, Social Media & Data Visualisation
- Web & Mobile Communication, Level 5 - Blog & Web Design
External Responsibilities
- NaariSamata, 3D Animator / Designer (2023-), https://naarisamata.org/
Internal Responsibilities
- Web Designer, Faculty of Media and Communication
Public Engagement & Outreach Activities
- 3D Animator for NaariSamata, Educational Charity (21 Feb 2023)
- Graphic Designer for Cancer Research and Weldmar Hospicecare fundraising (06 Jun 2022-28 Jul 2022)
Attended Training
- "Grooming in Houdini for VFX" Masterclass, 17 Nov 2022
- Web Designer, 01 Jan 2002, Web Designer & Developer
- BA (Hons) in Art and Media, 2011
- MSc in Web and App Development, 2019
Qualifications
- Certificate in International ESOL Achiever B1 (LanguageCert, 2023)
- Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) (Graduate TEFL, 2021)
- MSc in Web and App Development Technologies (2019)
- Certificate in Higher Education MHFA - Mental Health First Aid (MHFA England, 2018)
- BA (Hons) in Art and Media (2011)
- Professional Course and Qualification in Web Design & Development (2004)
Honours
- Best Online News Website - Web & Graphic Designer (BJTC - Broadcast Journalism Training Council, 2022)
Memberships
- Higher Education Academy (HEA), Fellow (2023-), https://www.advance-he.ac.uk/