Academic CV

Irena Popova

Independent researcher working at the intersection of applied linguistics, programming education, computational thinking, and digital literacy.

Profile Summary

Research profile and academic direction

I am an independent researcher, linguist, educator, and software developer based in Berlin, Germany. My work focuses on the relationship between human language, formal systems, programming education, and cognitive learning processes. I am particularly interested in how learners move from natural language understanding to algorithmic thinking, symbolic structure, and code.

My academic interests are interdisciplinary by nature. They connect applied linguistics, computational linguistics, educational technology, Python education, and cognitive approaches to learning. This profile reflects a research trajectory that brings together language, logic, interpretation, and technical literacy.

Research Areas

  • Computational Linguistics
  • Artificial Intelligence in Education
  • Explainable AI for Learning
  • Language Learning and Cognitive Processes
  • Programming Education and Computational Thinking
  • Human-AI Interaction in Educational Contexts

Research Topics

  • Computational linguistics and natural language processing for education
  • AI-assisted language learning and intelligent tutoring systems
  • Explainable AI in educational environments
  • Cognitive processes in language acquisition and programming education
  • Computational thinking and beginner Python education
  • Mental models and algorithmic reasoning
  • Pattern recognition in human and machine learning
  • Human-centered AI and educational technologies
  • Digital pedagogy and technology-enhanced learning
  • Educational software design and usability

Current Research

My current research explores the intersection of computational linguistics, artificial intelligence, educational technology, and cognitive science. I investigate how explainable AI, large language models, and computational thinking can support language learning, programming education, and the development of transparent, learner-centered educational systems.

Research Interests

Core questions and thematic interests

  • The relationship between human language and programming languages
  • Programming education through linguistic principles
  • Python education for beginners and secondary school learners
  • Mental models, abstraction, and algorithmic thinking
  • Formal systems, interpretation, and knowledge representation

Education

Academic preparation

Ongoing

Independent academic development and interdisciplinary research

Continuous research writing and academic project development in applied linguistics, programming education, and computational thinking.

Academic background

Linguistics, education, and digital practice

Academic and professional trajectory shaped by language, teaching, software development, and structured knowledge work.

Experience

Research and professional context

Berlin, Germany

Independent Researcher

Development of academic essays, working papers, and interdisciplinary research themes around language, code, learning, and formal systems.

Programming & education

Educator and software developer

Work across educational practice, web development, Python learning, digital literacy, and learner-centered explanatory systems.

Academic Writing

Current writing formats

  • Research essays
  • Working papers
  • Interdisciplinary concept papers
  • Curriculum and educational writing
  • Applied academic communication

Teaching Focus

Pedagogical orientation

  • Programming as formal language learning
  • Python education for beginners
  • Computational thinking and reasoning
  • Digital literacy and symbolic interpretation
  • Language-aware approaches to technical learning

Methods and Skills

Academic and technical competencies

  • Academic writing and structured argumentation
  • Qualitative analysis and conceptual synthesis
  • Curriculum design and educational framing
  • Python, web development, and digital systems thinking
  • Cross-disciplinary research communication

If you would like to discuss applied linguistics, programming education, interdisciplinary projects, or doctoral research direction, you can reach me directly.

Location

Berlin, Germany