Wafa’a Ta’an-Communication in Leadership-Best Researcher Award 

Assoc Prof Dr. Wafa'a Ta'an-Communication in Leadership-Best Researcher Award 

Jordan University of Science and Technology-Jordan 

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Wafa’a Falah Ta’an embarked on her academic journey at Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST), where she earned her Bachelor of Nursing in 2005, graduating among the top ten students in her cohort. This solid foundation set the stage for her subsequent academic pursuits. She continued her education by obtaining a master's degree in nursing from Queen’s University Belfast, UK, in 2007, showcasing her commitment to advancing her knowledge in the field.

Building upon her master's degree, Dr. Ta’an pursued a Ph.D. in nursing leadership and administration at the University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada, completing her doctoral studies in 2016. Her academic journey continued with a Post-Doctoral Fellowship at the same institution in the same year, highlighting her dedication to continuous learning and scholarly pursuits.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Wafa’a Ta’an's professional trajectory is marked by diverse and impactful roles. Notably, she served as the Dean Assistant of the Deanship of Research at Jordan University of Science and Technology since September 2022, demonstrating her leadership and administrative skills. Her previous roles include Chairperson of the Department of Community and Mental Health Nursing at JUST, coordinator of the LAWSON Mental Health Research Institute in Canada, and various teaching and research positions.

Her teaching experience includes delivering courses at both BSc and MSc levels, focusing on health service administration and management. Dr. Ta’an has actively engaged in clinical training, supervision, and coordination within hospital settings, contributing to the development of nursing students' practical skills.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Ta’an has made significant contributions to the fields of research and education, securing various grants for projects in areas such as health administration, innovation, sustainable development goals (SDGs), AI, medical waste management, and quality improvement. Her commitment to research is evident in her publication record, with over 40 scientific peer-reviewed articles in specialized international journals and participation in numerous conferences and workshops.

She has showcased a broad research focus, including studies on infection control competencies, virtual reality reminiscence therapy for dementia, psychometric properties of assessment tools, and the impact of online synchronous versus asynchronous classes on nursing students' knowledge and decision-making abilities.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Wafa’a Ta’an's academic excellence has been acknowledged through various scholarships and awards, including the Trans-European Mobility Program for University Studies (TEMPUS), the JUST graduate scholarship, and the prestigious Irene Nordwich Foundation Award. Her commitment to research and professional development has been further recognized through grants and acknowledgments for her accomplishments.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Ta’an's impact extends beyond academia, as she actively participates in initiatives such as ERASMUS+ mobility programs, AI healthcare projects, and collaborations with international institutions. Her role as a certified innovation manager from the Global Institute of Innovation Management (GIMI), USA, underscores her commitment to innovative practices.

Effective communication is a cornerstone of successful leadership, playing a pivotal role in fostering collaboration, trust, and shared understanding within a team or organization. A skilled leader understands the importance of clear, transparent, and open communication in conveying their vision, goals, and expectations. They actively engage in both verbal and non-verbal communication, tailoring their approach to resonate with diverse audiences. By promoting an environment where team members feel heard and valued, a leader establishes a foundation for effective problem-solving, conflict resolution, and innovation. Communication in leadership is not just about disseminating information; it involves active listening, empathy, and the ability to articulate ideas in a way that inspires and motivates others.

Legacy and Future Contributions on Communication in leadership 

Dr. Wafa’a Ta’an has left an indelible mark on the academic and research landscape, both locally and internationally. Her legacy includes a strong record of publications, successful grant acquisitions, and contributions to the professional development of nursing students. Looking ahead, she is poised to continue shaping the future of nursing through her dedication to academic, research, and professional excellence. Her multifaceted expertise positions her as a valuable asset to the nursing community, and her commitment to innovation suggests a future marked by continued contributions to the advancement of healthcare practices and education.

Moreover, effective leadership communication extends beyond one-way messaging to encompass active dialogue and feedback loops. Leaders encourage an atmosphere where team members feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, concerns, and ideas. This two-way communication fosters a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. Whether delivering a compelling vision for the future or addressing challenges, a leader who prioritizes communication establishes a sense of transparency and authenticity, earning the trust and respect of their team. In essence, communication in leadership is a dynamic and reciprocal process that builds strong relationships, enhances team cohesion, and ultimately contributes to the overall success of the organization.

Notable Publications