COLLEGE OF

Education and Human Development

2024-2025 Kazakhstan Visiting scholars

Each of our departments has its own policies and procedures for working with international scholars. If you're interested in being a visiting scholar, please contact the department directly.

Zhamila Mamyrkhanova

Position: Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
University: Dulaty Taraz Regional University
Email: mamyr001@umn.edu

Areas of interest:

  • Linguistics
  • Education

As a visiting scholar at the University of Minnesota, I aim to work on my research, expand my scientific network, and exchange experiences with colleagues and experts from different countries. My research experience includes working on projects in linguistics and philology, where I study the lexical features of the Kazakh language. My approach to research combines an interdisciplinary approach, the use of the latest technologies and methods, as well as a focus on the practical application of scientific results. 

During my visit to the UMN, I strive to enhance my skills in advanced methods and approaches, establish long-term scientific and professional ties, and contribute to the development of science in Kazakhstan. I intend to use the acquired knowledge and experience to develop the scientific infrastructure in Kazakhstan, contributing to the development of innovative technologies that can solve urgent problems for the country's economy and society.

Awards
2017 - Goethe Institute Scholarship, Internship in Germany/Heidelberg.
2019 - Best teacher of higher education in the Republic of Kazakhstan.
2020 - International project at Minzu University, China/Beijing.
2021 - Goethe Institute Scholarship, Internship in Germany/Munich.
2023 - Scholarship of the Ministry of Education, Science and Research, Internship in Austria/
Vienna

Selected Publications:
Mamyrkhanova Zh. (2016). The language of Kazakh diaspora in China. ISSN: 0025-1569. Vol.
96, No.7. SJR - 0,112. 2205-2215.

Mamyrkhanova Zh. (2016). Dialect problem of the Kazakh people living abroad. Cambridge
Journal of Education and Science, 1.

Mamyrkhanova Zh. (2019). Lexical features associated with the lifestyle of the Kazakhs in
China. Journal of Interdisciplinary Research (09). ISSN: 1804-7890 ISSN 2464-6733.

Mamyrkhanova Zh. (2024). Gender stereotype: The features of development and functioning in
the Kazakh language. Lodz Papers in Pragmatics.

Selected Courses taught:

  • Linguistics in the System of Modern Humanitarian Knowledge
  • Modern Trends in Linguistics
  • General Linguistics

Zhazira Kuanyshbayeva

Position: Senior Lecturer, Executive Secretary of the Bulletin of Abai KazNPU Journal
University: Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University
Email: kuany005@umn.edu

Areas of interest:

  •  Political Science and Socio-Philosophical Education
  •  Conformity and Value Development in Youth
  •  Management in Social Sciences
  •  Education Policy and Reform

Degrees: PhD in Political Science, Kazakh National University named after Al-Farabi.

I am a senior lecturer in the Department of Political Science and Socio-Philosophical Disciplines at Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University, with a PhD in Political Science. I arrived at the University of Minnesota as part of the "Scientific Internships" program within the "500 Scientists" project, in the field of "Management in Social Sciences." Here, I am exploring how young people's stereotypes, beliefs, and values are influenced by conformity, aiming to help them find ways to positively impact the development of social and political values. I have been teaching since 2004, starting my career as an Assistant Professor at Satbayev University and eventually becoming the Head of the Department. In 2023, I was awarded the "Abai" medal for my contributions to education. Over the years, I have gained extensive experience in teaching and administration. Now, I am fully dedicated to research.
 

Selected Publications:

Khussainova, G. and Kuanyshbayeva, Z. (2024). Religion in the modern world: A political
outlook. Pharos Journal of Theology, https://doi.org/10.46222/pharosjot.105.529

Kim, K. and Kuanyshbayeva, Z. (2023). Conformity study in socio-political discussions.
Bulletin of Abai KazNPU. Series of Sociological and Political sciences., 58– 69.https://doi.org/10.51889/2959-6270.2023.84.4.007.

Zhaksylykovna, P.P. and Kuanyshbayeva, Z. (2022). Dual education conditions for pedagogical
bases of specialists inclusive training. Cypri of Educational Science. 17(3), 765-771.
https://doi.org/10.18844/cjes.v1713.6937


Selected Courses taught:

  •  Methodology of Teaching Political Science
  •  Political Technologies
  • Sociological Methods of Data Processing and Analysis
  • Theoretical Sociology

Aigul Sultangubiyeva

Position: Associate Professor
University: Dosmukhamedov Atyrau State University
Email: asultang@umn.edu


Areas of interest:

  •  Linguistics
  • Language Learning
  •  AI-Driven Technology
  • Inclusive Education
  • Translation Studies

Degrees:

  •  Candidate of Philological Sciences, Kazakh National University named after Al-
    Farabi, Linguistics
  • BA, Dosmukhamedov Atyrau State University, Teaching English

I have 27 years of experience in teaching students and researching linguistics, language learning, and education. I supervise the Department and carry out administrative work. I got my Candidate of Philological Sciences in Comparative and Contrastive typology, and my BA in Teaching English. I worked as a teacher of English at Atyrau University of Oil and Gas and as a Head of the Department, Director of the International Relations Department, and Faculty Dean at Atyrau State University.

As a visiting scholar at the UMN CEHD, I would like to share and exchange effective research methods, innovative teaching approaches, and language learning technology, as well as attend academic seminars and workshops. Furthermore, I aim to improve my English and build a network through the program.

Selected Publications:
Sultangubiyeva, A., and Mukhanbetzhanov Zh. (2020). Specific vowel sounds of Kazakh and English languages. Bulletin of Science and Life of Kazakhstan journal. Volume №12 Issue 3 (149).

Tuyakova U, Alekeshova L, Sultangubiyeva A, Baizhumanova B. (2021). The role of developing teachers' emotional intelligence in their professional activities. Bulletin of ENU named after Gumilev, Issue 3 (136), 191-206 https://bulpedps.enu.kz/index.php/main/issue/view/14 

Avakova R, Sultangubiyeva A, Alekeshova L. (2022). Innovative approaches in language learning. Bulletin of KazNU named after al-Farabi. Philology: Science and Education, № 1(185),218-223 https://philart.kaznu.kz/index.php/1-FIL/issue/view/70

Sultangubiyeva A, Bainiyeva K, Sametova F, Kuvanbakiyeva A (2022). Specifics of English- language military terminology and problems of its translation. Bulletin of KazIRandFLU named after Abylaikhan, Issue 2 (65), 220-232 https://doi.org/10.48371/PHILS.2022.65.2 

Sultangubiyeva A, Koishigulova L, Mukhanbetzhanova A (2024). Problems of socialization of displaced children with disabilities. Bulletinof Kh.Dosmukhamedov Atyrau University. Pedagogics. – Issue 73 (2), 99-106.https://www.vestnik-asu.kz/jour/issue/view/3Sultangubiyeva A, Avakova R, Gabdullina Z, Ibraggimkyzy S, Imangaliyeva S. (2021). 

Linguistic units of the concept “heart” in the world linguistic image (on the material of Kazakhand English languages). Astra Salvensis Suplement no. 1, 187-198 https://www.scopus.com/record/display.uri?eid=2-s2.085107024308&origin=AuthorNamesList&txGid=e9b8d45946b32f6a72d2bad51042ac8d

Leonova A, Abdol E, Kismetova G, Kairliyeva N, Sultangubiyeva A, Umarova A, Adilbayeva E, Kuvanbakiyeva A. (2021). Metaphor in the aspects of cultural linguistics. Revista entrelinguas. Volume 7, Special Edition. https://dialnet.unirioja.es/servlet/articulo?codigo=8596109

Sultangubiyeva A and Adiletova A. (2024). Using the illustration method as a pedagogical tool in English language classes. Pedagogy and education No. 42 (189), 173-180, https://archive.interconf.center/index.php/2709-4685/article/view/5453

Yeleuova A, Sultangubiyeva A. (2024). Using culturally significant precedent names in newspaper headlines. Norwegian Journal of development of the International Science No. 124 https://nor-ijournal.com/2024/01/12/124-14/

Selected Courses taught: 

  • English for Specific Purposes
  • Intercultural Communication
  • Audio-Visual Translation

Gulzhana Kuzembayeva

Position: Associate Professor
University: Zhubanov Aktobe Regional University
Email: kuzem004@umn.edu

Areas of interest:

  • Research in Education
  • Applied Linguistics
  • Ethnocultural Studies

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Samara State University of Social Sciences and Education, Linguistics and
    Literature
  • Master of Pedagogy and Psychology, K.Zhubanov Aktobe State University
  •  Specialist degree of Teacher of English and German languages, Aktobe State Pedagogical Institute

My academic career involves EFL teacher training, supporting graduate students in their research pursuits, and conducting research on education development and linguistic and cultural studies. I was engaged in the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education project “Transition to university autonomy in Kazakhstan – TRUNAK” in 2019-2021 and research projects funded by the Science Committee of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of
Kazakhstan including:

  1. “Basic values of Kazakh culture: ethnopsycholinguistic study” as a project leader;
  2. "Research capacity building of young scientists of regional universities of the Republic of Kazakhstan: a model of mentoring” as a senior researcher.
     

I am the holder of the 2024 Mukhtar Auezov award for talented young researchers in humanities from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

My goal as a visiting scholar at UMN is to explore the best international practices in researchcapacity building in education and language programs and study implementing research-based learning from preschool through university level.

Selected Publications:

Yermekbayeva, G., Kuzembayeva, G., Maydangalieva, Zh., & Goncharenko, O. (2024). Implementing Research-Based Learning in Kazakhstan’s Pre-Service Teacher Education. Journal of Social Studies Education Research, 15(4), 316-337. https://jsser.org/index.php/jsser/article/view/5822

Kuzembayeva, G., Idrissov, G., Tashmukhambetov, B., Jumagaliyeva, U., & Maydangalieva, Zh. (2024). Capacity Building of Early Career Researchers through the Mentoring Program in Kazakhstan. Journal of Social Studies Education Research, 15(5), 266-296. https://jsser.org/index.php/jsser/article/view/5806

Kuzembayeva, G., Maigeldiyeva, Zh., Kussanova, B., & Maydangalieva, Zh. (2024). Heritage Language Experiences and Proficiency Among Ethnic Kazakhs Abroad: Exploring Challenges, Language Skill Requirements, and Acquisition Barriers. Journal of Social Studies Education Research, 15(3), 348-373. https://jsser.org/index.php/jsser/article/view/5655/

Kuzembayeva G. (2023). Axiological Dimension of Citizenship and Patriotism in a Worldview of Kazakhs: Psycholinguistic Study. East European Journal of Psycholinguistics, 10(1), 116-135. https://doi.org/10.29038/eejpl.2023.10.1.kuz
 

Selected Courses taught:
● Psycholinguistics
● Linguistic and Cultural Studies

Yelmar Orazbek

Position: Senior Lecturer
University: International IT University
Email: orazb002@umn.edu

Areas of interest:

  •  Human Capital Development
  • Personal Learning
  • Artificial Intelligence in Education
  •  Digital Transformation


Degrees:

  • PhD Student, Turan University, Economics
  •  MEcon, Kazakh Ablai Khan University of International Relations and World Languages,
    Economics
  • Bachelor's Degree, Zhetysu State University, Tourism

I am a PhD student at Turan University, focusing on improving university competitiveness by developing human capital. My research explores strategies to enhance the performance and innovation of higher education institutions, which is an important area for the economic growth of Kazakhstan. Alongside my PhD studies, I work at the International Information Technology University (IITU), where I apply my knowledge and research to improve the quality of education and provide better opportunities for students to succeed.

I hold a master’s degree in economics from Kazakh Ablai Khan University of International Relations and World Languages, where I gained valuable research and academic skills. My experience there allowed me to explore economic concepts in depth, which I now build on in my PhD studies.

As a visiting scholar at the University of Minnesota’s College of Education and Human Development, I am excited to expand my research skills and learn from experienced mentors. My main interest in this program is to explore how artificial intelligence can be applied to personalized learning, enabling the development of more effective teaching methods. This program will give me the tools and knowledge to make a real difference at IITU and beyond, helping to improve education in Kazakhstan and positively impact the future of students and universities.

Selected Publications:

Orazbek, Y., & Davletova, M. T. (2023). Assessment and improvement of the competitiveness of OHPE based on the use of digital marketing tools. Bulletin of "Turan" University, (1), 212–226.(In Russian). https://doi.org/10.46914/1562-2959-2023-1-1-212-226

Orazbek, Y., Davletova, M. T., & Dulatbekova, N. S. (2024). Assessment of digitalization in higher education: A case study of Turan University. Bulletin of the Karaganda University Economy Series, 11529(3), 79–88. https://doi.org/10.31489/2024ec3/79-88

Orazbek, Y., Zakirova, D., & Grinevich, Y. (2024). Development of human capital in Kazakhstan’s higher education institutions: Financial investments, faculty qualifications, and research output (2018–2022). Bulletin of "Turan" University, (3), 335–347. (In Russian).https://doi.org/10.46914/1562-2959-2024-1-3-335-347

Orazbek, Y., Balkenova, A., & Burkit, D. (2024). Trends and impact of neural network researchin Kazakhstan: A comprehensive analysis from 1992 to 2024. Procedia Computer Science, 251,555–560. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.procs.2024.11.148
 

Selected Courses taught:

  •  Economics and Industrial Engineering
  • Startups and Entrepreneurship
  •  Project Management
  •  Organizational Behavior and Leadership

 Nurlygul Tussupbekova

Position: Senior Lecturer of English
University: L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University
Email: ntussupb@umn.edu 

Areas of interest:

  •  New Technologies and Methods of Teaching Foreign Languages
  • Polylingual Education
  • Self-Educational Activity in Vocational Education
  • Artificial Intelligence in Education


Degrees:

  •  Master of Interpreter, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University
  • Specialist degree of Teacher of English and German languages, Shakarim Semipalatinsk
    State University
     

I am a senior teacher at Eurasian National University with 17 years of teaching experience. Earlier, I worked at the University of International Business in the Department of Languages and East Kazakhstan State University in the Department of Theory and Practice of Foreign Languages. My teaching primarily involved interpreter training and foreign philology.

Throughout my career, I have emphasized methods of teaching and the use of effective online testing platforms for knowledge assessment in foreign language instruction. I participated in the International Scientific and Practical Conference and received a Diploma II degree for ‘Best Scientific Article’ for my work titled “An Effective Online Testing Platform as a Method of Knowledge Control in Teaching Foreign Languages.” 

My students and I regularly participate in international competitions, and in 2024, one of my students achieved second place in the International Gumilyov Olympiad in English. I received a letter of gratitude for my participation and contributions to this event.

Selected Publications:
Tussupbekova N.S., Mussabayeva G.M., Niyazbekova A.A, Duishonalieva B.T. (2023) Using artificial intelligence technology in higher education system. Pedagogical science, № 5-6 (123- 124) (In Russian). https://www.elibrary.ru/item.asp?id=59758275

Tussupbekova N.S., Balkhimbetova P.ZH., Vatutina ZH.P., Mussabakova Z.S., (2023). Psychological features of teaching a foreign language at the “third age” within the framework of the “silver university” project. 197-210 https://www.elibrary.ru/item.asp?id=56954294&pff=1

Tussupbekova N. S., Mussabayeva G.M., Niyazbekova A.A., Duishonalieva B.T. (2024) Artificial intelligence technology in fo eign language and teaching. Proceedings of III International Scientific and Practical Online Conference “Multicultural communication:Modern issues of foreign language teaching”: the L.N. Gumilyov ENU, 101-107. April 22, 2024. Astana,
Kazakhstan. https://ru.scribd.com/document/815883878/Ilovepdf-Merged-5

Selected Courses taught:

  •  Foreign Language I, II" (English)
  • Professionally-oriented foreign language" (English)