2025–2027

Enhancing Learning and Transfer of Digital Literacy in Adult Learners

This project explores how adults aged 25 to 65 learn and apply digital skills—especially in the area of artificial intelligence literacy. By examining cognitive and metacognitive processes, the study aims to uncover how adults acquire and transfer knowledge effectively. The findings will inform researchers and policymakers on strategies that improve learning outcomes and maximise the impact of training investments in adult education.

This project is funded by the Singapore Ministry of Education (MOE) Science of Learning Grant.
Principal Investigator: Assoc. Prof. Ho Moon-Ho Ringo
(Dr. Darren Yeo is a Co-Principal Investigator on this project.)

2024–2028

Identifying Math Learning Difficulties with Video-evoked Brain Activity

Using brain imaging and machine learning, we aim to predict which children might struggle with math from as early as Kindergarten 2. By studying how their brains respond to educational videos—known as video-evoked brain activity—we can potentially identify learning difficulties before Primary 1 and render support earlier and with more effective interventions.

This project is funded by the Singapore Ministry of Education (MOE) Science of Learning Grant.
Principal Investigator: Assoc. Prof. Cheong Kang Hao
(Dr. Darren Yeo is a Co-Principal Investigator on this project.)

2023–2025

Creating a fully AI-based Adaptive Learning Platform for Mathematics

AI has the potential to transform how students learn by personalising education in real time. This project aims to create and test an AI-driven adaptive learning platform for university-level mathematics courses. Using past examination data, the platform will generate personalised questions, auto-grade responses, and recommend resources. Effectiveness will be examined, with potential for broader implementation.

This project is supported by the MOE Tertiary Education Research Fund.
Principal Investigator: Assoc. Prof. Cheong Kang Hao
(Dr. Darren Yeo is a Co-Principal Investigator on this project.)

2023–2024

Enhancing Inclusive Pedagogy through Understanding NTU Students’ Perceptions and Experiences in Specific Learning Contexts

This study explores how university students perceive and experience inclusive pedagogy, focusing on four key domains: instructors, peers, curriculum, and self. Using a sequential mixed-methods design, we first conducted a university-wide survey, followed by in-depth interviews to better understand students’ interpretations of inclusion in their learning environments. The research offers a student-centred perspective on inclusion in higher education, situated within the Singapore context.

This project is supported by the NTU EdeX Faculty Learning Communities Grant.
Principal Investigator: Dr. Mukta Bunsal
(Dr. Darren Yeo is a Co-Principal Investigator on this project.)

2023–2027

Understanding Brain Networks of Reading and Math to Inform Diagnostics and Interventions (Brain-NORM)

This project investigates how brain imaging and behavioural measures can be used to better identify and differentiate learning disabilities in young children, specifically reading difficulties, math difficulties, and their overlap. By combining advanced neuroimaging techniques with cognitive screening tools, the research aims to uncover the brain networks involved in reading, math, and working memory, and to develop sensitive, scalable ways to predict learning challenges early on and tailor interventions more effectively.

This project is supported by the MOE Science of Learning Grant.
Principal Investigator: Prof. Annabel Chen
(Dr. Darren Yeo is a Co-Principal Investigator on this project.)

2022–2024

The Instrument Pilot Study for Research on Early Education and Development in Singapore (REEDS-Pilot)

This pilot study supports the upcoming Research on Early Education and Development in Singapore (REEDS) project. Its two main goals are: (1) to validate teacher-completed instruments for tracking the development of core skills and competencies in children aged 3 to 7, and (2) to develop a dedicated website for participant recruitment and research dissemination in preparation for the large-scale longitudinal study.

This project is supported by the NIE-OER Centre for Research in Child Development (CRCD) Research Fund.
Principal Investigator: Assoc. Prof. Sun He
(Dr. Darren Yeo is a Co-Principal Investigator on this project.)

2022–2025

Enhancing Self-Regulated Learning of STEM Problem-Solving Skills Through Retrieval Practice and Worked Examples

This study investigates how retrieval practice and worked examples can support students’ self-regulated learning in STEM problem-solving. By examining how learners apply these strategies across different stages of learning and task types, the research aims to identify approaches that not only improve performance but also build metacognitive flexibility.

This project is supported by the MOE Tier 1 Seed Grant.
Principal Investigator: Dr. Darren Yeo

2021–2025

From ‘505’ to ‘5 Hundred’ and ‘5 Ones’: Characterizing the Neurocognitive Mechanisms of Multi-digit Numeral Comprehension

This project aims to utilise functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to systematically investigate the neurocognitive mechanisms involved in reading and understanding multi-digit numerals. By conducting intensive scans of adult participants over several sessions, we will compare how the brain processes numerals versus words, identify the brain networks involved, and potentially contribute to theoretical models and numeracy education.

This project is supported by the NTU Startup Grant.
Principal Investigator: Dr. Darren Yeo

2021–2023

Exploring Extended Reality to Enhance Practical Science & Mathematics Education

This study explores how extended reality (XR) technologies—such as Google Cardboard and GeoGebra AR—can be used to enhance science and mathematics education. It focuses on developing and evaluating an XR-based learning environment to support student engagement and conceptual understanding, particularly in contexts where traditional hands-on learning may be limited. The project involved collaboration with educators to integrate XR tools into classroom practice and examined their potential to transform teaching and learning in secondary schools.

This project is supported by the NIE-OER Education Research Funding Programme. 
Principal Investigator: Assoc. Prof. Cheong Kang Hao
(Dr. Darren Yeo is a Co-Principal Investigator on this project.)