Dr. Novak is listed in Who’s Who in America, Who's Who in Medicine and Health, and Who's Who in Science and Engineering and Who's Who in he World. He has received a number of awards and honors including a 1998 Honorary Doctorate from The University of Comahue, Nuquen, Argentina, Honorary Doctorate, Public University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain, 2002, Honorary Doctorate from the University of Urbino in 2006, and the first award for contributions to science education from the Council of Scientific Society Presidents.
His current research work includes studies on student’s ideas on learning and epistemology, and methods of applying educational ideas and tools (such as concept mapping) in corporate settings and distance learning programs. Present work includes the development of 'expert" concept maps to "scaffold' learning, using Cmapping with Internet and other resources, providing A New Model for Education. He is married with three children and 2 grandchildren.