I’m Terence Govender - a nerdy teacher, instructional designer, and father with a passion for technology, psychology, and education.

I was born and raised in South Africa, where I was fortunate to grow up surrounded by all kinds of tech, from the Famicom and Commodore 64 to the first Pentiums. That early exposure sparked a lifelong curiosity, and over the years, I’ve explored a plethora of topics from application development to instructional design to language acquisition.

My journey into education began with tutoring STEM and English subjects. I developed a strong reputation, particularly within the Chinese community, which led me to study a bit of Mandarin and shift my focus to language education. In 2016, I moved to South Korea, where I first taught at a large private academy and then transitioned to a government-run language institute in Paju. That’s where I began experimenting with immersive, student-centered learning environments.

By late 2018, I was leading adult education programs and integrating e-learning strategies such as interactive games for learners and software tutorials for staff. These innovations led to my promotion as Chief Instructional Designer, where I designed learning solutions for both internal stakeholders and external clients.

Today, I continue to explore the latest methods in instructional design, game-based learning, and AI-powered education. I’m especially passionate about developing engaging learning experiences that empower students and support educators around the world.

PhD in Games for Education 
Universitat Oberta de Catalunya
I’m currently researching how we can design serious games that promote wellbeing while supporting formal learning. My research explores motivation, immersion, and educational outcomes in digital game-based learning.
🔗 Research Profile

MSc in Computer Science
University of Hertfordshire – Graduated cum laude
My thesis focused on immersive educational games for language learners, examining retention, speaking confidence, and user experience. It won the award for Best Project in my graduating class.

BA (Hons) in Clinical Psychology
University of South Africa
My research explored short-term and working memory in older adults. This training helped shape how I approach lesson design for adult learners.

BA in Psychology & Linguistics
University of South Africa – Graduated cum laude
This dual major laid the foundation for my multidisciplinary approach to education and learning experience design.

I’m on a lifelong quest to make learning more human, playful, and effective. Whether I’m working on AI-powered simulations, digital storytelling, or gamified instructional design, I aim to create tools and experiences that support meaningful, joyful learning.