Nidhi Sachdeva
Speaker, EdTech Researcher, Educator
Ontario Institute for Studies in Education of the University of Toronto
Dr. Nidhi Sachdeva starts with a simple belief: When we understand how people learn, we can change how we teach—and that changes everything.
She’s a leading Canadian researcher in the science of learning who explores the space where educational technology meets evidence-informed design. Her work spans teacher education, post-secondary instruction, and continuing professional learning—always guided by one question: How can we design learning that sticks, scales, and serves everyone?
At the University of Toronto’s Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, Nidhi teaches online learning and microlearning through the lens of cognitive science. She’s known for making research usable—for translating complex findings into practices that actually work. She coauthors the globally acclaimed Science of Learning newsletter and leads as chair of ResearchED Toronto, helping educators and instructional designers connect research with purpose—because she believes that when educators thrive, learners do too.
Keynote Session: “Designing With the Science of Learning: From Intuition to Intention“
Tuesday, December 2, 10 – 11:15 a.m.
Is it time to challenge what you think you know about how learning happens? Join Nidhi Sachdeva—chair of ResearchED Toronto 2025 and educational technology researcher at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto—for this inspiring and empowering session. You’ll gain proven techniques to align instruction with how the brain learns best, evidence-based methods to minimize learning loss, and actionable strategies to boost engagement and retention—helping you evolve into a truly intentional and effective educator.
David Kelly
L&D Executive, Advisor, Speaker, & Author
David Kelly constantly explores the convergence of learning and technology, demonstrating a profound commitment to transforming workplaces and enriching lives through innovative learning strategies. With more than two decades of experience in learning and performance leadership and consulting, he brings his passion to life in his daily work as a dynamic strategist, speaker, and writer, inspiring others to view their work through a fresh, technology-enhanced lens.
Keynote Session: “Elevating Instructional Design by Asking Better Questions”
Thursday, December 4, 2:15 – 3:30 p.m.
Is it time to rethink how you approach instructional design? Join David Kelly, learning strategist and longtime advocate for innovation in L&D, for this thought-provoking and practical keynote exploring how better questions can elevate both your work and your career. You’ll discover how to challenge assumptions that limit design impact, adopt a curiosity-driven mindset that unlocks new opportunities, and ask questions that expand how you define your role, helping you grow as both a designer and a learning professional.
