About Jennifer Baccanello
A Hong Kong-based researcher in education and learning sciences, exploring how curiosity, emotion, identity and environment shape the way people learn.
What helps people stay curious, motivated and ready to grow?
Learning is not simply about remembering facts. It is about understanding, confidence, connection and growth.
That is why Jennifer studies learning where life actually happens: in classrooms, homes, online spaces, after-school programs, kitchens and playgrounds. These settings show not only what people learn, but why some experiences invite participation while others create frustration or disconnection.
Her work brings research and teaching practice together. The aim is practical and human: stronger lessons, healthier learning environments and meaningful opportunities for every learner.
How Jennifer works
Her approach combines intellectual rigour with attention to the lived experience behind every data point.
Observe with care
Look closely at how people encounter ideas, practise skills, respond to difficulty and use what they learn.
Listen deeply
Make room for the voices of learners, educators, families and communities.
Make evidence useful
Translate findings into thoughtful ideas that teachers, schools, families and designers can put into practice.
Where developmental psychology meets learning science
Jennifer's background in developmental psychology and her interest in cognitive science help her examine how thinking, learning and development change across different ages and circumstances.
Her research connects cognitive science, developmental psychology, pedagogy and thoughtful technology design. Across each area, the learner, not the tool, stays at the centre.
- Personalized learning and adaptive learning systems
- Motivation, engagement and meaningful gamification
- Inclusive design and cognition in context
Helping emerging researchers find their voice
Jennifer is committed to mentoring the next generation of scholars, with particular care for young women entering research and academic life. Her approach pairs practical guidance with attentive listening, because confidence, well-being and professional growth are closely connected.
Welcoming academic spaces
Environments where questions are encouraged and people feel respected.
Open knowledge sharing
Clear advice on projects, collaboration, academic decisions and career development.
Collaborative growth
Building skills, relationships, networks and the confidence to contribute.
Curiosity does not stop at the office door
Outside her research, Jennifer volunteers with adult literacy programs, helping adults strengthen their reading and writing. She enjoys podcasts on neuroscience and philosophy, and reads widely about decision-making and the many ways people understand the world.
These interests come from the same place as her academic work: a desire to keep asking questions, listen carefully and better understand how people learn and change.
“Research should create change people can feel.”Jennifer's guiding belief
Interested in working together?
Get in touch about education research, learning design, mentorship or speaking.