ufuk cem komşu at Mersin University, Turkey
Dr. Ufuk Cem Komşu is an Assistant Professor at Mersin University, Turkey, with extensive experience in adult education, lifelong learning, and distance education. With a professional journey spanning over two decades, he is recognized for integrating innovative pedagogies and interdisciplinary approaches in adult learning, urban studies, and digital education. His academic and administrative leadership in distance education continues to contribute significantly to Turkey’s educational reform in vocational and lifelong learning sectors.
🔹Professional Profile:
Orcid Profile
Google Scholar Profile
🎓Education Background
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Ph.D. in Lifelong Learning & Adult Education, Institute of Educational Sciences, University of Ankara, 2014
Dissertation: “Adult Education and Urban Affairs in Turkey: Case of Karaduvar”
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M.Sc. in Urbanization and Ecological Sciences, Institute of Social Sciences, Mersin University, 2003
Thesis: Socio-economic and developmental issues of Çiftlikköy district, Mersin
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B.A. in Business Administration, Faculty of Political Sciences, Ankara University, 1995
💼 Professional Development
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Assistant Professor, Mersin University, Vocational High School (Distance Education), 2018–Present
Engaged in teaching and research in lifelong learning, adult education, and distance education.
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Assistant Manager, Distance Education Centre, Mersin University, 2019–Present
Responsible for curriculum design, assessment models, and examination systems for online learning programs.
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Lecturer, Vocational High School of Erdemli, 2006–2018
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Lecturer, Vocational High School of Anamur, 2003–2006
🔬Research Focus
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Lifelong and adult learning
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Distance education and digital pedagogy
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Informal and non-formal education
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Learning in senility and elder education
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Poetry and handcrafting in adult education
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Urban affairs and educational equity
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New literacies and educational inclusion
📈Author Metrics:
Dr. Ufuk Cem Komşu has contributed to scholarly discourse in the fields of adult education, lifelong learning, and distance pedagogy through interdisciplinary research and academic publications. His work is cited in several academic platforms, reflecting a growing impact in the areas of informal learning, elder education, and digital teaching methodologies. He maintains an active presence on research networks such as Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and ORCID, where his publications and collaborative works are accessible to a global academic audience. His academic output continues to gain recognition for its practical relevance and innovative integration of social and educational sciences. While formal citation indices like h-index and i10-index are developing, his influence is particularly noted within Turkish academic and policy-oriented discussions in lifelong education.
📝Publication Top Notes
1. Financial Exploitation: A Qualitative Analysis from Türkiye
Authors: M.C. Samirkas, M. Samirkas Komsu, U.C. Komşu, S. Evci
Journal: International Journal of Financial Studies, 13(2), Article 81 (2025)
Objective: To explore patterns and perceptions of financial exploitation among vulnerable individuals in Turkey.
Methodology: Qualitative design using semi-structured interviews with victims and professionals in social work and finance.
Key Findings:
- Financial exploitation often goes unreported due to shame or lack of awareness.
- Elderly and dependent individuals are particularly at risk.
- Education and early intervention mechanisms can reduce exploitation risks.
Contribution: Provides policy recommendations for financial literacy and protective legislation.
2. Lisans Öğrencilerinin Medya Ortamlarından Yararlanma Tercihleri: Kullanımlar ve Doyumlar Kuramı Ekseninde Bir Nitel Analiz Örneği
Author: U.C. Komşu
Journal: Bayterek Uluslararası Akademik Araştırmalar Dergisi, 7(2), 260–281 (2024)
Objective: To investigate university students’ preferences in using different media platforms through the Uses and Gratifications Theory.
Methodology: In-depth qualitative interviews with undergraduate students; thematic analysis.
Key Findings:
- Social media is primarily used for social connection and entertainment.
- Educational platforms are underutilized, even among motivated students.
- Gratification is influenced by accessibility, speed, and interactive features.
Contribution: Suggests tailored media education strategies in higher education curricula.
3. Yaşlılık, Yaşlı Nüfusun Sorunları ve Yetişkin Eğitimi
Author: U.C. Komşu
Journal: The Journal of Academic Social Science, 2(2), 370–389 (2024)
Citations: 59
Objective: To analyze aging-related problems and the role of adult education in addressing those challenges in Turkey.
Methodology: Literature-based analysis combined with national statistical data.
Key Findings:
- Psychological isolation and low participation in education are prominent issues.
- Adult education positively impacts cognitive engagement and social inclusion.
- Intergenerational learning is an underutilized solution.
Contribution: Advocates for national frameworks supporting lifelong learning for the elderly.
4. Evaluation of the Changes and Achievements Perceived in Graduate Tourism Education on the Basis of Transformative Learning Theory
Author: U.C. Komşu
Journal: Bartın University Journal of Faculty of Education, 13(2), 340–357 (2024)
Objective: To assess graduate students’ transformative experiences in tourism education.
Methodology: Qualitative case study; interviews and reflective journals from tourism graduate students.
Key Findings:
- Students reported significant shifts in professional identity and critical awareness.
- Experience-based learning and case studies facilitated transformation.
- Structural limitations in curriculum hindered full engagement.
Contribution: Encourages incorporation of experiential and reflective methods in graduate education.
5. Postgraduate Students’ Perceptions of Research Self-Efficacy and Critical Thinking Disposition and Their Impact on Academic Creativity: Case of Mersin University
Author: U.C. Komşu
Journal: Turkish Online Journal of Educational Technology (TOJET), 20(4), 53–66 (2021)
Citations: 15
Objective: To examine how postgraduate students’ self-efficacy in research and critical thinking dispositions affect their academic creativity.
Methodology: Mixed-methods study using a survey (n=120) and in-depth interviews.
Key Findings:
- High research self-efficacy correlates with increased academic creativity.
- Critical thinking acts as a mediator between confidence and creative output.
- Institutional support and mentoring amplify these effects.
Contribution: Offers actionable insights for academic development programs in graduate education.
.Conclusion:
Dr. Ufuk Cem Komşu demonstrates a clear alignment with the principles of impactful, interdisciplinary, and socially engaged research, especially in the evolving landscape of lifelong and adult learning. His work is not only theoretically grounded but also practically oriented—improving educational access, equity, and innovation for adult learners and underserved communities.
He is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award, especially in domains such as: