We are proud to announce that our PhD student, Edlir Spaho, has successfully defended his doctoral dissertation on April 28th, 2025, at Epoka University, Faculty of Architecture and Engineering, Department of Computer Engineering.

The dissertation, titled "A Dynamic Model for Personalized E-Learning Using Internet of Things," was conducted under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Betim Çiço.

Edlir Spaho’s research tackled a critical gap in current e-learning systems by proposing an innovative framework that integrates real-time Internet of Things (IoT) data to enhance the personalization and adaptability of online learning platforms. His work combined methodologies, including systematic mapping studies, machine learning models, IoT integration, and empirical validation through a pilot implementation with real learners.

The defense was evaluated by an esteemed jury composed of distinguished professors:

• Prof. Dr. Bekir Karlık, Faculty of Architecture and Engineering, Department of Computer Engineering, Epoka University (Chair)
• Prof. Dr. Mirjana Ivanovic, Corresponding Member of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts; University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Science, Department of Mathematics and Informatics, Chair of Computer Sciences
• Prof. Dr. Yannis Manolopoulos, Member, Section in Informatics, Academia Europaea; Professor Emeritus, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki; Professor Emeritus, Open University of Cyprus; Member, Board, University of Macedonia
• Prof. Dr. Isak Shabani, Dean, Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Prishtina
• Prof. Assoc. Dr. Dimitrios A. Karras, Faculty of Architecture and Engineering, Department of Computer Engineering, Epoka University

Throughout his defense, Edlir Spaho demonstrated the relevance and scientific rigor of his research, contributing a novel, modular, and context-aware model that dynamically adapts learning content type and difficulty, path, feedback and assessment significantly improving learner engagement and academic outcomes.

His dissertation has also resulted in several high-impact journal and conference publications, showcasing important contributions to the fields of IoT-based educational technologies, and machine learning.

We warmly congratulate Dr. Edlir Spaho on this outstanding achievement and wish him continued success in his future academic and professional endeavors.