Daniel Smilek, Department of Psychology
Daniel Smilek, professor in the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts, is recognized for his engaging, enthusiastic, and highly effective teaching. With over two decades of experience, he consistently creates dynamic learning environments where complex ideas become accessible and compelling. One student reflected: "He is the best lecturer I have had over my four years at this university. First, he is notably enthusiastic in teaching and this content, which drew me in to his lectures and the subject. His presenting/public speaking is very succinct, enjoyable and easy to follow. Rather than being a lecture that is monotone, hard to understand or hard to follow, you actually have to try hard not to be engaged when listening to him."
Another student highlighted his teaching style: “He is very engaging; he explains such complex concepts in simple terms that makes students want to come to his class. He answers questions and has a vast knowledge of the subjects that he can connect things that are seemingly unrelated in a matter of seconds. For many teachers it is the content and material that makes the class enjoyable, however for Daniel Smilek, it is himself as a professor and person that made his course so impactful.”
A colleague emphasized his broader impact: “Over the course of his career he has published over 180 scientific peer reviewed journal articles in top journals in the field, and nearly every one of this long list of publications has a current or past trainee as a co-author, typically as first!"