Dr Sylwia Macinska

Dr Sylwia Macinska

Senior Research Manager

Sylwia is a Senior Research Manager specialising in quantitative research methodologies. She leads research that drives the development of evidence-based language learning and assessment products, with a focus on learning analytics, automated feedback, and adaptive learning.

Previously, as a member of the Assessment and Research Division, Sylwia investigated accessibility solutions and best practices in education to inform the development of accessible examinations. She also worked as a Specialist Student Mentor for students with learning disabilities.

Sylwia holds an MSc in Applied Data Science and has taught Research Methods and Statistic courses in Psychology at the University of Hull and Birkbeck, University of London. She also has a PhD in Psychology from the University of Hull, where she investigated the influence of emotions on implicit cognitive processes in typical development and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) using behavioural research methods and eye-tracking technology.

Selected publications and conference papers

Vidal Rodeiro, C. & Macinska, S. (2022). Equal Opportunity or Unfair Advantage? The Impact of Test Accommodations on Performance in High-Stakes Assessments. Assessment in Education: Principles, Policy & Practice, 1-20.

Macinska, S., Holland, M., Glasson, N. & Galaczi, E. (2021). Aligning Assessment with Learner Needs: An Example from a Speaking Practice and Assessment App. Paper presented at the Language Testing Research Colloquium (LTRC).