Call for Abstracts – International Research Conference

International Research Conference - Call for Abstracts

FACULTY OF EDUCATION

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATIONAL STUDIES (ZOUFEDES)
INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH CONFERENCE
CALL FOR ABSTRACTS
VENUE: Management Training Bureau - MTB | Msasa, HARARE
DATE: 9-10 October 2025
Theme: Transforming Education: The Future of ODeL and Technology in Teaching and Learning

Preface

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and evolving educational paradigms, the landscape of learning is undergoing profound transformation. The conference theme, "Transforming Education: The Future of ODeL and Technology in Teaching and Learning" seeks to explore the implications of these groundbreaking changes for the future of education through research. Open Distance e-Learning (ODeL) has emerged as a pivotal approach, offering unprecedented access to education for diverse populations worldwide. As we navigate this digital age, it is crucial to examine how technology can enhance teaching and learning, foster engagement, and bridge gaps in access to education and how research can inform effective practices and policies. This conference brings together educators, researchers, policymakers, administrators and industry leaders to share insights, experiences, and innovative practices grounded in research. The Conference invites you to engage in meaningful discussions, share your research findings, and collaborate with peers to contribute to shaping the future of education. Together, we can harness the potential of ODeL and technology to create inclusive, effective, and transformative learning environments for all. We envision a brighter future for education, driven by research and innovation!

Welcome to Our Conference

Join us in exploring the future of education

The Department of Educational Studies in the Faculty of Education welcomes papers based on a variety of educational concepts guided by themes and sub-themes listed below.

Conference Sub-Themes

1. Innovative ODeL Delivery Methods
2. The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Education
3. Community in Online Learning Environments
4. Future Skills and Competencies
5. Cybersecurity and Privacy in Online Education
6. Personalized Learning Experiences
7. Assessment and Evaluation in Digital Learning
8. Equity and Access in ODeL
9. Leadership and Governance in ODeL
10. Inclusive and quality education in ODeL, management, pedagogy and assessment
11. Digitalization
12. AI and Machine Learning
13. Online, hybrid and blended teaching and learning

Note: Presentations at the conference are not limited to the above listed themes and sub-themes only. Abstracts and papers addressing the main theme on Educational Transformation, ODeL and Technology are most welcome.

Submission Process

  1. Paper length not more than 6000 words excluding references.
  2. Manuscripts will undergo a double-blind review process.
  3. Articles should be based on theoretical or research-based evidence but should seek to provide answers to a question, advance knowledge on the subject matter.
  4. Referencing Style: APA 7th Edition.
  5. Charges as given.

Important Dates

Date of Call for Abstracts: 2 May 2025
Early Bird Abstract Submission: 30 July 2025
Final Abstract Submission: 15 August 2025
Full Paper Submission: 3 September 2025
Final Manuscript Acceptance: 12 September 2025
Book of Abstracts: 24 September 2025
Date of Conference: 9-10 October 2025

Guidelines and Instructions for Abstracts

Selection and acceptance of abstracts will be guided by the following criteria:

  • Relevance to the conference theme
  • Importance
  • Originality
  • Potential usefulness to the contribution of knowledge or advancement of knowledge in education on the theme.
NB: Posters, artefacts, models, prototypes and demonstrations are acceptable. Specifications will follow with the acceptance letter.

Abstract Requirements:

  • Abstracts should be between 250 to 350 words with the following specifications:
  • Times New Roman font size 12
  • Single line spacing
  • Word document
  • No illustrations, subheadings, references, graphs or tables in the abstract.
  • English (British) language
  • Submit abstracts electronically via email as an attachment to the conference administrator at: zouedustudies@zou.ac.zw

Conference Contacts

For further information on the International Conference, please contact the following:

Conference Convenor and Co-ordinator

Prof. II Dambudzo: +263 774 663 853 | zouedustudies@zou.ac.zw

Conference Administrators:

Prof. T. Tshabalala:
+263 776 425 222 | +263715792921
tshabalalat@zou.ac.zw
Dr S. Hlatywayo:
+263 772 486 907
zouedustudies@zou.ac.zw
Dr R. Kasowe:
kasower@zou.zw
Prof. O. Mupa:
mupap@zou.ac.zw
Prof. R. Chabaya:
chabayar@zou.ac.zw
Prof. M. Kurebwa:
+263 718 000 539
zouedustudies@zou.ac.zw

Registration Fees

Participation Type Category Fee (USD)
Face to Face Participation Normal Fee $150
Student $50
Late Registration $160
Virtual Participation Fees Normal $50
Student $30
Late Registration $60

Payment Details:

Account Name: Zimbabwe Open University
Bank: CBZ (Nostro)
Account Number: 01120005100287
Branch: 6101
Swift Code: COBZZWHA

Registration fees include: conference materials, refreshments, lunches and dinners but exclude refreshments not included in the programme, accommodation and travelling.

NB: No refunds but you are free to send a substitute at no extra cost.