TEAM
Dr. Dionysis Arkadianos, Research
Dionysios Arkadianos is a Digital Learning Specialist in the Department of Global Humanities at Simon Fraser University (SFU) and the Academic Coordinator of the SNF New Media Lab. He holds a PhD in Educational Technology and Learning Design from SFU. His doctoral research examined the role of perceived difficulty in online language learning environments and its impact on learner strategies, tactics, and persistence.
His interdisciplinary background includes a BSc in Computational Linguistics from the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (UMIST), an MA in Intercultural Education, and a BA in Education from the University of Patras. His work centers on the design, development, and computational modeling of digital tools for language instruction, with a strong emphasis on heritage language learning and diaspora communities. He is also deeply interested in heritage cultural education, connections with Indigenous Peoples’ educational contexts, and the ethical and responsible use of AI in education.
Dionysios has contributed to major digital education initiatives, including the Rebooting the Greek Language project, which evolved into the Staellinika platform — Stavros Niarchos Foundation-funded program adopted by the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He has also participated in the Hellenic Relay, a nationwide community action research study (funded by the Hellenic Heritage Foundation) that investigated the current state of Greek language education in Canada, identifying challenges and opportunities for intergenerational transmission of the language and culture.
At the New Media Lab, he leads research and development at the intersection of educational technology, humanistic pedagogy, and Hellenic Studies. The lab creates innovative digital applications and tools that support language learning, cultural education, and scholarly engagement through interactive media and intelligent systems. In line with his academic interests, Dionysios advocates for a thoughtful and responsible integration of AI in education. The lab recognizes AI’s transformative potential but prioritizes its selective use — only when it provides clear added value for complex or creative tasks — while favoring lower-impact, computationally efficient methods. This approach aims to enhance deep learning, critical thinking, creativity, and soft skills without promoting cognitive offloading or unnecessary environmental costs.
Polychronis Kampylis, Technology
Polychronis Kampylis brings a strong background in software engineering from the University of Bristol. His professional journey began with quality assurance and rigorous bug fixing across Microsoft Windows operating systems and Microsoft Office, where he cultivated a sharp focus on system reliability, attention to detail, and user-centered problem solving. He later transitioned into full-stack web development, specializing in language learning applications — a domain he is deeply passionate about both personally and professionally. Today he designs and builds scalable digital systems that deliver high-performance, accessible, and genuinely engaging learning experiences.
He is guided by the conviction that in educational technology, high-quality content is foundational. He finds it especially rewarding to create solutions in environments that deeply value rich, meaningful educational and cultural material, such as those within Hellenic Studies.
He approaches artificial intelligence through a commitment to responsible practice, driven by his dedication to continuous advancement in educational technology and human-centered learning. He is particularly drawn to the harmonious integration of tradition with emerging technologies. In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, he advocates for tools that actively cultivate and expand human cognitive capabilities — strengthening critical thinking, creativity, and intellectual independence — rather than fostering dependency.
Costa Dedegikas, Creative / Advisor
Technology Advisor for the Stavros Niarchos Foundation New Media Lab at Simon Fraser University and Director of Ready Labs Inc., a next generation educational technology company. Mr. Dedegikas has been working in technology for over 20 years with an expertise in educational technologies and an extensive background in brand identity development, interactive media, and user experience design.
Mr. Dedegikas has overseen the development of multiple successful online learning platforms, interactive media projects, as well as educational and cultural mobile applications. Costa Dedegikas work has worked closely with major organizations like the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, Onassis Foundation, Aegean Airlines, Coca-Cola and Visit Greece (GNTO).
Greg Tsolakis, Motion Director
With more than 10 years of experience in video editing, post-production, and motion design, Greg Tsolakis has contributed to a diverse range of projects spanning documentaries, animation, educational content, and digital storytelling. Passionate about the intersection of technology and creativity, he specializes in transforming complex ideas into engaging visual narratives. His longstanding collaboration with the SNF New Media Lab has provided a platform for experimentation and innovation, allowing him to continually evolve his craft while creating impactful media experiences.