About the Center for Innovation in Learning and Teaching
Dedicated to supporting faculty with creative solutions for impactful education.
Discover the faces behind our mission to revolutionize teaching.
  • Elaine Sharplin
    General Director
    Elaine is a passionate educator, focused on high quality learning for students. She has been working in higher education for over 30 years as a teacher educator and educational leader. Elaine commenced work as the General Director of the Center for Innovation in Learning in 2023, with the mission of establishing a world class center to support professional learning and innovation. Her role involves the development of professional learning programmes, the introduction of innovative technologies, shaping university policy development, contributing to learning and teaching quality monitoring and supporting curriculum enhancement. Elaine was a Professor in the Graduate School of Education at NU from 2018 and has previously worked in universities throughout Australia and South East Asia. She is a qualitative researcher interested in the professional learning of early career teachers, rural education, the development of research education and research ethics.
  • Aida Nuranova
     Professional Learning and Development Expert
    Aida holds an MA in Multilingual Education (2020) and has experience teaching EAP and EFL at Maqsut Narikbayev University (KAZGUU), where she also served as the Head of the Quality Assurance Committee. She earned her CELTA in 2023. Since 2023, she has been part of the Center for Innovation in Learning and Teaching (Office of the Provost) at Nazarbayev University, working as a Professional Learning and Development Expert. Her interests include faculty professional Development and research in higher education.

  • Aiza Bissaliyeva
    Online Learning Multimedia Manager
    Aiza holds the role of Online Learning Multimedia Manager at the Center. She is responsible for overseeing the operations of the Innovative Learning Studio, which is an integral part of the Center's offerings. In her capacity, Aiza provides dedicated support to faculty members in creating multimedia materials to enhance online, blended, and face-to-face academic courses, workshops, seminars, and training events. Aiza manages various audio, video, and educational technology resources throughout the Center, ensuring their seamless integration into the educational experience.
  • Gulnaz Sailybayeva

    Innovative Learning Officer
    Gulnaz Sailybayeva holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Warwick. As an Innovative Learning Officer at Nazarbayev University's Center for Innovation in Learning and Teaching, she integrates technology and innovative teaching methods. Previously, she was the Principal of Unique Care School, where she implemented a child-centered curriculum. She also coordinated the successful authorization of International Baccalaureate Programmes at Nazarbayev Intellectual School. In her role as a Research and Development Specialist, she standardized best practices across Central Asian Garden Schools. Additionally, she enhanced student engagement and research capabilities as an IGCSE Global Perspectives and Research Project Teacher and Subject Leader. Her work reflects a strong commitment to transformative teaching and learning experiences.