Michael is Professor of Digital Futures in the Faculty of Education.

Michael is a world expert in learning design, in particular the effective use of digital technologies in teaching and learning. In 2020 and 2024 Michael was identified by The Australian as the national Field Leader in Education research.

Unique to his profile is that his research spans higher education and professional learning contexts through to schools and early childhood. This broad perspective has allowed him to broker theories and perspectives relating to digital technologies across what may be seen as impermeable boundaries.

Michael has a continuing interest in all technology enabled learning. Some of his current research projects are focused on assessment and feedback, creative risk, AI in learning design, online safety, instructional media design, and effective teaching and learning with online technologies more broadly. His research in assessment feedback has had a large impact on research and practice nationally and internationally. Most recently his work in AI in education has helped to shape national and local policy and practices. He is the recipient of ARC Discovery and Linkage grants, as well as other notable research schemes including the Spencer Foundation.

Michael is an experienced leader in research, education and technology innovation. Michael has served on a variety of boards and committees in international and national organisations, as well as strategic roles within Monash University.  

Michael is an experienced leader in higher education provision. Having served in various leadership roles he has led the creation and redesign of courses as well as student focused initiatives that have improved the quality of teaching, student satisfaction and a strong increase in student numbers. Michael also teaches undergraduate and postgraduate courses on learning design and educational technologies and has received several teaching awards, including a national award from the Australian Learning and Teaching Council.