Muhammad Zulfadhli Kamarudin

Profile

I’m Zulfadhli, a primary school science teacher with eight years of teaching experience. I hold a Master of Education (Primary Sciences) from Sultan Idris Education University, where my research focused on the implementation of digital inquiry-based science learning in a rural primary school. This work explored classroom management, the design of teaching and learning materials and evaluation processes. I also graduated with a Bachelor of Teaching with Honours (Science for Primary Education) from the Institute of Teacher Education Malaysia, where I completed mini-projects on classroom management using reflective tools. These experiences have equipped me to undertake doctoral research at the University of Leeds, where I am focusing on climate change education and digital learning. 

I am actively involved in promoting action research as the postgraduate support group secretariat for the Malaysian Action Research Network (MARNet). In this capacity, I provide crucial support to fellow Malaysian postgraduates employing action research in their studies and help manage programmes such as the International Conference on Action Research. My passion for digital education was recognised through my nomination as an Apple Teacher. In this role, I contribute to a community of educators using Apple products to enhance teaching practices, with a focus on community development, advocating for innovative teaching methods and leading digital pedagogy workshops. 

Since 2022, I have authored eight peer-reviewed papers, most of which are indexed in both the Scopus and Web of Science databases (3 & 4-star* journals). These publications primarily cover inquiry in science classrooms, digital learning and action research methodologies. At the University of Leeds, my goal is to further develop as an academic and principal investigator, delivering high-quality research in climate change education and preparing for a career in research and innovation. 

ORCID / ResearchGate

Research interests

My research is situated within the field of education, specifically focusing on curriculum and pedagogical development. During my doctoral study, I aim to co-develop a climate change play curriculum that integrates spatial computing—an approach that enables interaction with digital technologies in real-world environments. I will investigate its impact on primary school children’s understanding of climate change. Using participatory action research as my methodology, I will collaborate with children from Southeast Asia living in Leeds, United Kingdom. Like many regions globally, Southeast Asia has been heavily affected by climate change; thus, it is crucial to enhance children’s understanding to strengthen resilience against its impacts. Existing research emphasises the importance of early climate change education for primary school children, particularly the use of technology and play to deepen their conceptual understanding. My PhD thesis will expand on these research areas while contributing to key concerns within the School of Education at the University of Leeds, including pedagogy and policy, digital education, and childhood and youth studies. 

As a primary school teacher in Malaysia, I witnessed the natural curiosity and enthusiasm of children, particularly when exploring climate change. I designed lessons where students engaged in hands-on investigations, such as studying weather patterns and observing plant adaptations to climate shifts. The urgency of this global challenge is clear, and while traditional teaching methods have been effective, I recognised their limitations in conveying the interconnected nature of climate science. This realisation, coupled with my desire to improve children’s educational experiences, led me to explore digital learning as a tool to bridge this pedagogical gap. Through my PhD research, I aim to develop innovative educational pathways that empower young learners to better understand and respond to climate change challenges. 

Qualifications

• MEd (Primary Sciences)
• BTeach with Honours (Science for Primary Education)