Yana Wengel

I did not intend to become a researcher, but I am curious by nature, and I love being outdoors, this made me move over 18000 km to start a Ph.D. at the University of Waikato in New Zealand.

In my previous career, I worked for a University in Germany. I have developed curriculum and created a new international degree with partnerships across Europe. At this University was the place where I taught a class first time in my life, and I loved sharing knowledge and experience with others.

When I teach, I use creativity and diversity of technique as I make my lectures fun and productive where everyone has a chance to get involved. I apply constructivist techniques in the classroom and let my students play Lego seriously.

I am certified Lego Serious Play facilitator and active practitioner of the Ketso technique.

In my job I have to talk a lot and I do it in four languages, and one day I dream to learn Mandarin or Arabic. I love to listen too – not only to what’s being said but to what is not being said since it often reflects the most interesting.

My interdisciplinary Ph.D. looks at the communication within the non-profit volunteer tourism programme World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF). Currently, I am at the finishing stage of my Ph.D. and looking for the possibilities in academia, research or business around the globe.

If you’re interested in grabbing a coffee and talking to me, please feel free to send me a message.