Keynote Speakers

 

Prof. Mario Barajas
University of Barcelona, Spain

Mario Barajas Frutos is a Doctor in Education from the University of Barcelona and Master’s Degree in Educational Technology from San Francisco State University in the USA. He holds degrees in Engineering and in Philosophy and previously taught Mathematics in secondary education. He teaches about Digital Learning Environments, and in the doctoral program ‘Education and Society’ at the Faculty of Education of the University of Barcelona. He is a founder of the new Institute of Educational Research of the same University. He is a member of different Research Committees, Journals and Conferences at an international level. During the last two decades, Dr. Barajas has coordinated and participated in a large number of the European Union funded projects and leads the research group Future Learning

 

Prof. Jon-Chao Hong
National Taiwan Normal University

Jon-Chao Hong is currently working as a research professor at National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU). As the director of Digital Game-based Learning Laboratory (GBL), he has developed more than 20 Apps for learning domain knowledge as well as thinking skill, such as “Collaborative game for developing imagination and thinking skills in science learning. Additionally, he leaded his team has also developed more than 10 IVR in skill development, such as fire escaping, earthquake escaping, Jazz drum, spatial ability development and so on.
In addition, he has published a number of academic articles in international journals. In recent three years, he has more than 60 articles published on SSCI journals. He has received the Outstanding Research Prize from Ministry of Science and Technology in Taiwan. In 2022, 2023 and 2024, he was ranked as the top 2% scientists rated by Sandford University, and in 2024 he was also ranked in the top 0.5% of all scholars worldwide in Education by ScholarGPS.
In the academic communities, he is the Chief-in-editor of International Journal of Information and Education Technology. He is also the Chairperson of International Exhibition for Young Inventors, and the Chief Executor of iSTEAM-PowerTech contest.
 

Title:Mirror Neuron System in Practicing Skills via Immersive Virtual Reality

Abstract: The mirror neuron system (MNS) plays a crucial role in skill acquisition by integrating action perception and execution. Immersive virtual reality (VR) enhances MNS activation, facilitating observational learning and sensorimotor integration. This study examines VR’s impact on skill transfer and its applications beyond rehabilitation. Compared to traditional training, VR’s immersive visual experience strengthens learning outcomes. However, the extent of its effectiveness in enhancing MNS functionality remains debated. Further research is required to validate its role in technical education and professional training.