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Assoc. Prof. Di Zou's Homepage

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Prof. ZOU Di
Associate Professor, Department of English and Communication
Faculty of Humanities
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong

Email: daisy.zou@polyu.edu.hk
Office: HHB914
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
Office Phone: +852-34003654

Biography

I am a researcher in language education, with a dedicated focus on how emerging technologies can enhance teaching, learning, and assessment. My academic journey has been shaped by a deep interest in the intersection of language pedagogy and educational innovation. Over the years, I have led and collaborated on more than 20 research projects that explore the pedagogical potential of digital tools in language classrooms. My research has resulted in over 200 peer-reviewed publications, appearing in leading SSCI- and Scopus-indexed journals such as Computers & Education, Computers in Human Behavior, Computer Assisted Language Learning, System, and TESOL Quaterly.
With a Google Scholar citation count of 19404 (as of July 2026), an h-index of 62, and an i10-index of 139, my work has made a notable impact in the fields of language learning and educational technology. I have been recognized as one of the World's Top 2% Scientists by Stanford University for five consecutive years (2021–2025), an acknowledgment that reflects my sustained scholarly contributions.
My passion for language education extends beyond research to include teaching and curriculum development. I have received multiple awards for teaching innovation and scholarly excellence, including the Excellent Paper Award at the International Conference on Blended Learning and the International Conference on Open and Innovative Education. My technology-enhanced teaching projects have been internationally recognized with the Gold Medal and Special Awards at the International Invention Innovation Competition in Canada (iCAN), and the Silver Medal at the International Innovation and Invention Competition (IIIC) in Taiwan.
I also play an active role in shaping academic discourse through editorial work. I currently serve as an Associate Editor for Computers & Education (SSCI IF=13.2) and Computers & Education: X Reality, and previously for the Australasian Journal of Education Technology (2021–2022). I am a member of the editorial boards of Language Learning & Technology, Education Technology & Society, and the International Journal of Mobile Learning and Organisation. I have guest-edited special issues in journals including Computers in Human Behavior, System, Computer Assisted Language Learning, and Computers & Education: Artificial Intelligence.
Through my work, I aim to bridge the gap between language education and digital innovation, creating research-informed pathways to support educators and learners in an increasingly AI-enhanced world. I welcome opportunities to supervise graduate research in areas such as AI for language learning, immersive and mobile-assisted learning environments, and teacher development in technology-rich contexts.

Research Interests

  • Educational technology

  • English language education

  • Computer-assisted language learning

  • Game-based language learning

  • Artificial Intelligence in language education

Editorship

Awards

  • 2024 - World’s Top 2% Most-cited Scientist in Education, Stanford University

  • 2023 - World’s Top 2% Most-cited Scientist in Education, Stanford University

  • 2023 - Best Student Paper Award, International Conference on Open and Innovative Education

  • 2023 - Faculty Teaching Award, Faculty of Humanities, The Education University of Hong Kong

  • 2022 - World’s Top 2% Most-cited Scientist in Education, Stanford University

  • 2022 - Gold Medal, Jury’s Choice Award, & Special Award, Facilitating emotion classification based on non-intrusive learner data via deep neural networks, International Invention Innovation Competition in Canada

  • 2022 - Gold Medal & Special Award, Personalized vocabulary learning system based on artificial intelligence techniques, International Invention Innovation Competition in Canada

  • 2022 - Best Paper Presentation Award, AI-driven automated language assessment of picture writing tasks, The 1st International Conference on Future Language Learning

  • 2022 - Most-cited Articles published within the last 3 years as calculated by Computer Assisted Language Learning, Taylor & Francis

  • 2022 - Top-200 of CALL reviewers, Computer Assisted Language Learning, Taylor and Francis

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Journal Articles

  • [J175] Nussbaum, M., Bekerman, Z., Archambault, L. M., Ranieri, M., Yilmaz, R., Wu, J. Y., Braak, J. V., Zou Di, & Tsai, C. C. (2026), Teachers' doings in the AI era: From transmission to relation, Computers & Education. 249, 105617, [SSCI IF=12.4, 5 year IF=14.6].

  • [J174] Yang, X., Zou Di, & Zhou, Z. (2026), Effects of Task-Induced Involvement Load and Motivation on L2 Vocabulary Learning, The Asia-Pacific Education Researcher. [SSCI IF=4.5, 5 year IF=4.6], DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40299-026-01120-2.

  • [J173] Kohnke, L., & Zou Di (2026), AI as a collaborator: pre-service teachers’ perspectives on preparing multimodal language lessons, Computer Assisted Language Learning. [SSCI IF =7.9, 5 year IF=10.4, The Corresponding Author], DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/09588221.2026.2686396.

  • [J172] Liang, Y., Zou Di, Xie, H., & Wang, F. L. (2026), Enhancing domain adaptation of LLM via model composition in solving medical exam questions, Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence. 100638.

  • [J171] Kohnke, L., Zou Di, Lai, C., & Gu, M. M. (2026), Preparing Pre-service Teachers for Responsible Generative AI Use: Curriculum Implications for Ethics, Privacy, and AI Literacy, Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence. 100617.

  • [J170] Fang, J. W., Ji, T. T., Chen, X. X., Hwang, G. J., & Zou Di (2026), Effects of robot tutor and peer roles on preschoolers' empathy, anthropomorphism perceptions, learning behaviors, and teacher reflections, Educational Technology & Society. 29(3), 187-203, [SSCI IF=6.0, 5 year IF=6.3].

  • [J169] Kohnke, L., & Zou Di (2026), From Pedagogy to Practice: Using Microlearning to Prepare Teachers for GenAI and Digital Multimodal Composition, TESOL Quarterly. [SSCI IF=3.9, 5 year IF=4.5], DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/tesq.70156 .

  • [J168] Zhang, R., Zou Di*, Xie, H., & Cheng, G. (2026), Robot-assisted speaking practice (RASP): Learner affection, engagement, outcomes, and their interplay, Computers & Education. 29(4), 271-292, [SSCI IF=10.5, 5 year IF=13.0, Corresponding Author].

  • [J167] Xian, J., Wu, J., & Zou Di (2026), Effects of enhancing education for students with intellectual disability through game-based learning: A meta-analysis, Educational Technology & Society. 29(4), 159-177, [SSCI IF=6.0, 5 year IF=6.3].

  • [J166] Liao, K., Zou Di, He, S., Liu, E., & Li, K. (2026), To play or not to play? Investigating Chinese EFL undergraduates’ intention to use digital games for English learning using PLS-SEM and fsQCA, Innovation in Language Learning and Teaching. [SSCI IF=3.1, 5 year IF=2.8], DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/17501229.2026.2657392.

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Edited Books

  • [B3] Lee, Ju., Zou Di, & Gu, M. (Eds) (2023), Technology and English Language Teaching in a Changing World, Springer. .

  • [B2] Cheng, K. S., Xie, H., & Zou Di (Eds) (2020), Proceedings of International Conference on Education and Artificial Intelligence 2020 (ICEAI 2020), Hong Kong: The Education University of Hong Kong. .

  • [B1] Gong, Z., Chiu, D., & Zou Di (Eds) (2016), Current Developments in Web-Based Learning, Springer. .

Book Chapters

  • [Ch20] Chen, X., Xie, H., Zou Di, Xu, L., & Wang, F. L. (2025). Fine-tuned BERT Model for Sentiment Classification of Chinese MOOCs, In International Conference on Blended Learning, 2025. 267-278.

  • [Ch19] Xiong, Z., Wu, J. G., & Zou Di (2024), Mapping the digital game-based vocabulary learning landscape: A comprehensive bibliometric exploration, Theory and Practice in Vocabulary Research in Digital Environments. 39-59.

  • [Ch18] Chen, X., Li, Z., Zou Di, Wang, F. L., Xie, H., & Cheung, S. K. (2024), Leveraging deep learning for classifying learner-generated course evaluation texts, In Blended Learning: Engaging Students in the New Normal Era. Springer.

  • [Ch17] Zou Di, Lee, J., & Zhang, R. (2024), Digital RPG-Based Vocabulary Learning, In Lee, J., Zou, D., & Gu,M. (Eds) Technology and English Language Teaching in a Changing World. Springer.

  • [Ch16] Liang, Y., Xie, H., Zou Di, & Wang, F. L. (2023), Investigating Student Profiles Related to Academic Learning Achievement, In International Conference on Web-Based Learning (pp. 39-48). Singapore: Springer Nature Singapore.

  • [Ch15] Chen, X., Zou Di*, Xie, H., & Cheng, G. (2022), Socialization in language learning: Topic modeling and bibliometric analysis, In J. Colpaert, & G. Stockwell (Eds.), Smart CALL: Personalization, contextualization, & socialization, (pp. 151-183). London: Castledown Publishers.

  • [Ch14] Zou Di, Wang, F. L., Kwan, R., & Xie, H. R. (2018), Game-Based Vocabulary Learning in China and Hong Kong: Students's Evaluation of Different Word Learning APPs, In S.K.S. Cheung, J. Lam, K.C. Li, O. Au, W.W.K. Ma, & W.S. Ho (Eds.) Technology in Education, Innovative Solutions and Practices (pp. 3-15). Springer.

  • [Ch13] Zou Di, Wang, F. L., Xie, H. R., & Kohnke, L. (2018), Investigating the Effectiveness of Vocabulary Learning Tasks from the Perspective of the Technique Feature Analysis: The Effects of Pictorial Annotations, In S.K.S. Cheung, J. Lam, K.C. Li, O. Au, W.W.K. Ma, & W.S. Ho (Eds.) Technology in Education, Innovative Solutions and Practices (pp. 44-55). Springer.

  • [Ch12] Zou Di, Xie, H. R., & Wang, F. L. (2018), Personalized word learning for ESL students via integration of implicit and explicit profiles, In K.S. Cheung, L. Kwok, K. Kubota, L.K. Lee, & J, Tokito (Eds.) Blended Learning: Enhancing Learning Success (pp. 301-310). Springer.

  • [Ch11] Xie, H. R., Zou Di, Wang, F. L. & Wong, T. L. (2017), A review of recent development of the involvement load hypothesis, In S.K.S. Cheung, L. Kwok, W.W.K. Ma, L.K. Lee, & H. Yang, (Eds.) New Challenges and Innovative Practices (pp. 447-452). Springer.

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Conference Proceedings

  • [C49] Zhang, Y., & Zou Di (2026), Designing and Evaluating a Guided Social Immersion" Workshop in VRChat for L2 Speaking Practice", In GCCCE 2026: The 30th Global Chinese Conference on Computers in Education, Hong Kong, 30 May-3 June, 2026. .

  • [C48] Yicong Liang, Zou Di*, Haoran Xie, Fu Lee Wang, Leung Pun Wong (2025), Investigating Real-life Features Associated with Student Stress, In 2025 International Symposium on Educational Technology (ISET). Bangkok.

  • [C47] Xieling Chen, Zou Di*, Haoran Xie, Fu Lee Wang (2025), A Systematic Review of Frameworks for Evaluating Cognitive-Social-Emotional Skills in Online Knowledge Construction, In 2025 International Symposium on Educational Technology (ISET). Bangkok.

  • [C46] Zilin Wang, Zou Di*, Lap Kei Keith Lee, Haoran Xie, Fu Lee Wang (2025), Evaluation of ChatGPT’s Implementation in Undergraduate Java Programming Training, In Proceedings of The 29th Global Chinese Conference on Computers in Education (GCCCE). Hong Kong.

  • [C45] Chen, X., Zou Di*, Xie, H., & Wang, F. L. (2024 July), A Systematic Review of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Language Education, In 2024 International Symposium on Educational Technology (ISET). Macao SAR.

  • [C44] Kuo, R., Iriarte, M. F., Zou Di, & Chang, M. (2023), Preliminary Performance Assessment on Ask4Summary’s Reading Methods for Summary Generation, In International Conference on Intelligent Tutoring Systems (pp. 630-637). Cham: Springer Nature Switzerland.

  • [C43] Su, F., & Zou Di* (2022), Applying Shimo-supported concept maps, mind maps, and argument maps to assist students’ argumentative writing, In 2022 9th International Conference on Behavioural and Social Computing (BESC) (pp. 1-5). IEEE.

  • [C42] Chen, X., Zhang, R., Zou Di*, Cheng, G., Xie, H., & Wang, F. L. (2022), Online learning research in the era of COVID-19: Bibliometric analysis and topic modeling, In 2022 9th International Conference on Behavioural and Social Computing (BESC) (pp. 1-8). IEEE.

  • [C41] Zou Di*, Xie, H., & Wang, F. L. (2022), Effects of Scaffolded Peer Assessment on Students’ Holistic Critical Thinking in Academic Writing, In International Conference on Blended Learning (pp. 147-156). Springer, Cham.

  • [C40] Chen, X., Zou Di*, Cheng, G., & Xie, H. (2022), Understanding Classroom Interaction Using Epistemic and Social Network Analysis, In International Conference on Blended Learning (pp. 157-167). Springer, Cham.

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Paper Presentations at Conferences

  • [Pc8] Wang, H. & Zou Di (2017, June), Planning lexical instructions for diploma of secondary education examinations, Paper presented at Conference on Digital Humanities 2017: Digitization of the Humanities and New Ways of Teaching, Hong Kong. .

  • [Pc7] Zou Di (2016, June), Use of digital tools in an EAP course: What do students say?, Paper presented at 2016 HAAL Conference, Hong Kong. .

  • [Pc6] Zou Di & Troshina, K. (2016, April), L1 use in L2 writing: Perceptions of teachers and students, Paper presented at 2016 TESOL International Convention & English Language Expo. Baltimore, Maryland, USA.

  • [Pc5] Zou Di & Wang, H. (2015, December), Achieving syntactic complexity through punctuation: A corpus study of English writing by American authors and Chinese students, Paper presented at the International Conference on Corpus Linguistics and Technology Advancement, Hong Kong. .

  • [Pc4] Troshina, K. & Zou Di (2015, May), Do culture and learner identity matter? The effect of continuous student feedback practices on adult learner engagement in the ESL classroom in Hong Kong, Paper presented at the Independent Learning Centre Symposium – Independent learning: Current trends and future directions, Hong Kong. .

  • [Pc3] Zou Di (2015, May), To use or not to use: The influence of first language on the second language composing process, Paper presented at the Writing Roundtable – Eyes on writing: Discovering creativity across the curriculum, Hong Kong. .

  • [Pc2] Zou Di (2013, December), Re-investigating the evaluation component in the involvement load hypothesis through various methods, Paper presented at the East Lake International Forum for Outstanding Overseas Young Scholar, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China. .

  • [Pc1] Zou Di (2011, November), Examining the involvement load hypothesis via realizing 「search」 through different approaches, Paper presented at the 3rd International Conference on Language, Education and Diversity, University of Auckland, New Zealand. .

Patents

  • [P2] Chao Wu, Di Zou, Haoran Xie, Man Leung Wong, A Personalized Word Learning System Based on Deep Neural Network, Hong Kong Short-term Patent No. 30079801. 2023.

  • [P1] Jacky Ngai, Di Zou, Haoran Xie, Kee-Lee Chou, Caixia Liu, Automatic Emotion Recognition Method, System, Computing Device, and Computer Readable Storage Medium, 22020017065.6, PCT/CN2020/118887, Hong Kong Patent (Filed) and PCT Patent based on China Patent. 2020.

Contacts

Prof. ZOU Di
Department of English and Communication
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong