Indianapolis, IN
March 18, 2026
The Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Fengfeng Ke as Editor-in-Chief of the Research section of Educational Technology Research and Development (ETR&D), a peer-reviewed, world-class academic journal published by AECT in partnership with Springer Nature. Dr. Ke succeeds Dr. Tristan Johnson, who has served with distinction as Editor-in-Chief of the Research section and whose leadership has strengthened the journal’s scholarly impact and global reach.
Dr. Ke is a respected scholar in educational technology, widely recognized for her research on immersive learning environments, game-based learning, data-informed instructional design, and emerging technologies in education. Throughout her career, she has contributed extensively to advancing both theory and practice in digital learning and innovation. Her work reflects a strong commitment to methodological rigor, interdisciplinary collaboration, and meaningful connections between research and real-world application.
In addition to her research contributions, Dr. Ke has served the academic community in numerous editorial and leadership roles, demonstrating a deep commitment to scholarly excellence, mentorship, and the responsible advancement of educational technology research. Her appointment reflects AECT’s continued investment in forward-thinking, globally engaged leadership for its flagship journal.
Remarks from Dr. Chris Miller, AECT President
“AECT is honored to welcome Dr. Fengfeng Ke as the new Editor-in-Chief of the Research section of ETR&D,” said Dr. Chris Miller, President of AECT. “Dr. Ke brings an exceptional record of scholarship, editorial experience, and international engagement. Her vision for rigorous, innovative, and globally relevant research aligns closely with AECT’s mission to improve learning and instruction through technology. We are confident that under her leadership, the Research section of ETR&D will continue to set a high standard for impactful research that shapes our field.”
Dr. Miller also expressed AECT’s sincere appreciation to Dr. Tristan Johnson for his dedicated service. “We are deeply grateful to Dr. Johnson for his outstanding leadership of the Research section. His commitment to editorial excellence, thoughtful stewardship of the peer review process, and collaborative partnership with the editorial team have strengthened ETR&D’s reputation as a world-class journal. We thank him for his service and lasting contributions to AECT and the broader educational technology community.”
Remarks from Dr. Saul Carliner, Chair, Publishing Advisory Board
“Dr. Ke brings an exceptional record as a researcher as well as extensive editorial experience,” said Dr. Saul Carliner, Chair of AECT’s Publishing Advisory Board. “Her unique perspective will shape the vision for the Research section of Educational Technology Research and Development and build upon its already outstanding reputation and impact.”
Remarks from Dr. Rick West, Editor in Chief, Development Section, ETR&D
“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Fengfeng Ke as Editor-in-Chief of the Research section,” said Dr. Rick West, Editor-in-Chief of the Development section of ETR&D. “She has a rich and extensive history as a reviewer, author, and editor for many high-quality journals, and she impressed us during the interview process with her innovative vision for the journal. Dr. Ke will be a compassionate yet strong editorial voice who will help ETR&D continue to grow as one of the premier journals in the field.
“We are also grateful to the many outstanding scholars who applied for the position, as the candidate pool was exceptionally strong. This is yet another indication of the quality of scholars within the AECT community.”
Looking Ahead
Dr. Ke’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for scholarly publishing in educational technology. As the field continues to evolve in response to artificial intelligence, open science initiatives, and expanding global collaboration, her leadership will guide the Research section in advancing innovative, high-quality scholarship that addresses the complex challenges and opportunities shaping education worldwide.
AECT and Educational Technology Research and Development
Since 1923, AECT has served as the professional home and intellectual family for educational technology, maintaining a central position in the field and promoting high standards in both scholarship and practice. Educational Technology Research and Development, published by Springer Nature, is a flagship publication of AECT and is recognized globally for its contributions to research and practice in educational communications and technology.
Dr. Ke’s appointment reinforces AECT’s commitment to fostering innovation, integrity, and excellence in scholarly publishing while expanding the global impact of educational technology research.
About the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT)
AECT is an international organization that values diversity of thought, culture, and people whose activities are directed toward improving learning. AECT members may be found in colleges and universities; in the Armed Forces and industry; in museums, libraries, and hospitals; and in other settings where educational change takes place. AECT members include instructional designers, researchers, professors and teachers, educational technologists, and other professionals united by a passion for improving teaching and learning with technology.
Media Contact
Juliet Penrod
Marketing@aect.org