Events and Outreach

To be announced

Introducing the research methodology series and the module on Research Supervision and Mentoring Skills

June 11th, 2026 | Dr. Vahideh Baradaran and Dr. Navid Mollaee | Faculty Connections

This session introduces the Research Methodology Workshop Series, a practical set of modules designed to help students and faculty strengthen their research skills, confidence, and engagement with scholarly work. The session will also feature the module on Research Supervision and Mentoring Skills, focusing on how supervisors can support students throughout the research journey with clear guidance, constructive feedback, and meaningful mentoring, especially for MBAR students. Participants will gain practical strategies for building effective supervisor–student relationships, encouraging student independence, addressing common research challenges, and promoting ethical and culturally responsive supervision.

Introduction to LEGO® Serious Play® method for Research Applications

June 11th, 2026 | Dr. David Newman and Lan Anh Nguyen | Guest Lecture / Workshop

Experience the power of the LEGO® Serious Play® method (LSP) as a research tool gaining acceptance in higher education institutions internationally. Benefits of LSP include easier exchange of complex ideas across disciplines, enhanced collaboration in research teams, improved conceptualization of research frameworks, and more effective stakeholder engagement in participatory research approaches.
The first part of the session will be a hands-on experience of the LEGO® Serious Play® method using metaphor and storytelling. You'll experience firsthand how LSP facilitates deeper thinking and communication. In the second part of the session, we'll explore the neuroscience and learning theories underlying the effectiveness of LSP, including constructionism and the hand-mind connection. We'll also review brief case studies demonstrating applications in research contexts such as interdisciplinary collaboration, research team alignment, and participatory research methods.

Toward Sustainable Digital Maturity: A Multidimensional Digital Transformation Maturity Model for Higher Education Institutions

May 28th, 2026 | Dr. Olfat Ganji Bidmeshk and Dr. Amit Kohli | Research Showcase

Digital transformation is a strategic priority for higher education institutions (HEIs). However, many digital maturity models (DMMs) function mainly as snapshot readiness and capability assessments. Moreover, they offer limited guidance for stage wise, governance supported change, particularly on human centric issues. Here, we distinguish DMMs from digital transformation maturity models (DTMMs), which articulate sequenced change pathways aligned with transformation goals, and develop an HEI specific DTMM. We define digital maturity as the institutionalized capability to continuously improve business processes (BPs), system integration, governance routines, and stakeholder experience across five dimensions: technical, BP, socio-technical, strategic, and human centric aspects related to people and culture. A PRISMA guided systematic literature review, using an explicit “maturity model” search strategy and established maturity model design principles, is used to derive DTMM stages and indicators. Building on this synthesis, we specify a replicable assessment and prioritization workflow that combines importance-performance analysis (IPA) and gap analysis to map key BPs to staged maturity levels and prioritized improvement portfolios. We further operationalize the DTMM in a web based decision support prototype with dashboards that support structured diagnosis, prioritization, and planning of digital transformation initiatives. Overall, the study contributes a multi dimensional HEI DTMM, a replicable prioritization method, and an operational artifact that supports governance oriented and human centric digital transformation planning in higher education.

Touching the World at the Speed of Light: Community and Conflict in the Global Village

May 14th, 2026 | Dr. Houman Mehradian, Dr. Adriana Lozjanin and Dr. Savio Lopes| Faculty Connections

The original panel took place in March 2026 at the Northeast Modern Language Association convention. It consisted of two sessions featuring presenters from the University of Waterloo, the University of British Columbia, the University of Hawaii, and, of course, University Canada West. Houman chaired the panel. Savio and Addie delivered presentations.

The idea behind the panel is simple. Canadian media theorist Marshall McLuhan argued that earlier print media (books, newspapers, etc.) tend to isolate individuals. We read by ourselves, and this activity encourages individuality and private thought. Modern mass media, however, which rely on electricity for circulation, have the opposite effect. They draw people out of isolated reading bubbles and bring them closer together. Today, this tendency of mass media has intensified dramatically with digital and online forms. We are brought closer together across both time and space in unprecedented ways. This is not all positive. McLuhan warned that too much closeness leads to new forms of disagreement and tension.

This panel explores how modern mass media simultaneously create community and conflict. Houman discusses how these changes in mass media have affected free speech and contributed to the rise of hate speech online. More specifically, he investigates the role of digital technologies, which run on binary coding, in amplifying polarization in contemporary society. He recently published this article in the online journal Sounding Out! titled: “The Medium Is the Menace: AI and the Platforming of Hate Speech.” Informed by McLuhan’s analysis of automation, Savio concentrates on how automated systems in the age of generative artificial intelligence perform cognitive and creative tasks. As these systems become more sophisticated in producing cultural forms, stronger critical assessment of their outputs becomes increasingly necessary. Finally, complementing this focus on theory, Addie examines the construction of counter-narratives through discursive, strategic, and contested processes that have emerged during the ongoing contentious episode in Serbia that was precipitated by the collapse of a railway station canopy in November 2024. Her talk traces how these processes enable diffusion of shared grievances to disparate actors, resulting in an expansion of political opportunities. Drawing on a dynamics of contention approach, her research paper uses protest event analysis and qualitative content analysis to investigate how sustained mobilization unfolds in a highly polarized society characterized by weak opposition parties and high levels of distrust.

Substance Use Recovery and Employment: A Labour Market Approach

March 12th, 2026 | Dr. Renuga Nagarajan | Research Showcase

The study focused on understanding how employment can function as a critical pathway supporting long-term substance use recovery. Individuals transitioning from treatment often encounter both personal and systemic barriers when attempting to re-enter the workforce, including low confidence, employment gaps, stigma, and limited coordination between recovery and employment services. Despite growing attention to diversity, equity, and inclusion in workplaces, individuals in substance use recovery are rarely recognized as an equity-deserving group. Many diversity initiatives focus on groups such as people of colour, individuals with disabilities, veterans, women, and other historically marginalized populations. Yet individuals in recovery are often overlooked within these frameworks. The study highlights that integrating employment support, including peer mentorship, job readiness training, and stronger collaboration between recovery and employment services, can significantly strengthen recovery outcomes. By connecting recovery services with labour market opportunities, employment becomes not only an outcome of recovery but also a key mechanism that supports stability, purpose, and social reintegration.

Measurement and Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Corporate Ethical Frameworks on Employee Behavior

March 12th, 2026 | Dr. Tokunbo Oladokun | Research Showcase

Despite the implementation of extensive ethical frameworks, high-profile failures like the SNC-Lavalin scandal and conflicts surrounding the ""Canada Brand"" in Latin America reveal a persistent paradox of compliance. This presentation, "Measurement and Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Corporate Ethical Frameworks on Employee Behavior," introduces a study that is currently in its preliminary stage. While the work is ongoing, the presentation will discuss initial findings regarding how these frameworks often fail to bridge the gap between corporate intention and operational reality. The research focuses on the internal transmission mechanisms of employees, a critical gap in the current academic literature. By investigating the subjective perceptions of mining site workers, operational managers, and ESG professionals, the study explores how ethical leadership, culture, and legitimacy pressures shape actual behavior in the multinational mining sector.

Discussion with McGraw Hill on Publishing Textbooks

March 9th, 2026 | Amy Spencley-Clarke | Faculty Connections

Join us on March 9 for an event hosted by Dr. Penny Farley featuring guest speaker Amy Spencley-Clarke. Amy is the Sr. Portfolio Manager, Higher Education Division at McGraw Hill, focusing on sales, business development, and customer relationship management. Amy will host an interactive discussion focussing on helping faculty look to publish textbooks. Her talk will cover the areas of new voices sought in publishing, how to get your foot in the door, briefly discuss changes the industry over the past 10 years, and current industry standards in Canada. She is also looking for information on what authors would like to see from publishers and how McGraw Hill can be a strong publishing partner to faculty authors - so bring your ideas, likes dislikes, and questions about publishing to this interactive presentation.

Cultural Differences and Career Readiness: A Study of International Students in Canada

February 26th, 2026 | Dr. Sherry Campbell and Dr. Vahideh Baradaran | Research Showcase

Are MBA students fully prepared for the realities of the Canadian workplace? This work-in-progress study examines how cultural backgrounds influence career confidence and perceived readiness among MBA students in Canada. Drawing on Social Cognitive Career Theory and cultural value frameworks, the research explores the psychological and contextual factors that shape students’ transition into employment in Canada. The findings aim to support more inclusive and culturally responsive career development strategies in higher education

Equitable and Sustainable Humanitarian Network Design under Earthquake Uncertainty: A Two-Stage CVaR and ε-Constraint Approach

February 26th, 2026 | Dr. Saeed Hassanpour | Research Showcase

Major earthquakes expose structural weaknesses in humanitarian relief systems, often resulting in unequal access to critical resources across affected districts. Despite this reality, most humanitarian logistics models are designed around expected cost minimization, even though disaster performance is driven by extreme outcomes rather than averages.

This seminar presents a two-stage stochastic optimization framework that embeds tail-risk protection (CVaR), enforceable equity constraints, and carbon budgeting within a unified network design model. The approach determines where to locate and fortify distribution centers before disruption and how to allocate relief flows once earthquake scenarios unfold.

Using a calibrated case study of Tehran with correlated fault systems, the results show that modest cost increases (5–8%) can reduce worst-case deprivation by up to 20%, substantially narrow spatial inequality, and achieve meaningful emission reductions. The findings demonstrate that resilience, fairness, and sustainability can be systematically integrated into infrastructure design rather than treated as competing objectives.

Is US CEO Equity and Cash Compensation Agency Aligned to Maximize Shareholder Returns?

February 12th, 2026 | Dr. Gurupdesh Singh Pandher | Research Showcase

Recent international studies on CEO pay in Europe, Japan and South Korea reveal significant differences with the U.S. in the use and effectiveness of equity-based CEO compensation, raising questions on the ability of conventional contracts from agency theory to reconcile CEO compensation. Our study contributes to this debate by evaluating nine hypotheses from an extended principal-agent framework in which CEO equity and cash incentives are jointly determined in the shareholder return-maximizing contract. The extended model also incorporates the noisy market valuation relationship between firm income and its market equity value and distinguishes between firm ‘business risk’ and ‘equity risk’. Our empirical results show that CEO cash incentives rise with firm growth prospects and equity risk and decline with firm business risk and firm scale as predicted by the model, meanwhile, CEO equity incentives are partially consistent. Overall, given the dominance of equity compensation in U.S. CEO pay, our results show that cash pay tied to firm business performance (e.g., operating cash flow) is efficient and plays an important role in aligning CEO and shareholder interests and reducing the risk to corporate governance from agency misalignment.

The Confluence of Eudaimonia and Quantum Leadership in the Financial Industry

February 12th, 2026 | Dr. Sherry Campbell and Dr. Vahideh Baradaran | Research Showcase

This doctoral research examines the role of consciousness in executive decision-making within the financial industry, advancing an integrative framework grounded in Quantum Leadership, Eudaimonic Well-Being, and Conscious Capitalism. Drawing on Upper Echelons Theory, the study challenges the dominance of purely rational–instrumental models by investigating how leaders’ inner states—values, purpose orientation, and relational awareness—influence ethical judgment and strategic choices in complex, high-stakes environments. Using a sequential mixed-methods design, quantitative survey data from senior financial leaders were analyzed through correlational and regression techniques, followed by qualitative interviews to deepen insight into lived decision experiences. Findings reveal strong, statistically significant relationships among eudaimonic well-being, quantum leadership capacity, and conscious decision-making, suggesting that leadership consciousness is not ancillary but foundational to sustainable performance and trust in financial systems. The study contributes theoretically by extending Upper Echelons Theory into the domain of leadership consciousness, and practically by offering a paradigm shift for financial leadership development—from compliance-driven ethics toward conscious, purpose-aligned decision architectures. Implications for leadership education, governance, and the future of finance are discussed, positioning consciousness as a strategic asset in navigating systemic uncertainty and societal responsibility.

Publishing Case Studies – Recent achievements and tips on successful submissions

January 22nd, 2026 | Dr. Amit Kohli, Dr. Zahra Ladha and Elizabeth Johnston | Faculty Connections

Dr. Kohli has published case studies on "Green Blockchain Technology and Food Supply Chain" and "Positioning Organizations for Digital Transformation" with The Case Centre, and Dr. Ladha has published cases with Ivey (her latest, "Dubai FIX Dessert Chocolatier: A Sweet Success or a Bitter Challenge?" can be found here). Faculty panelists will share their recently published works, describe their experience with the review process, and provide tips on case study publication. UCW's Library representative will provide an overview of the UCW Library Guide for publishing Case Studies.

Leveraging Digital Twin (DT) Technology for Logistics Optimization in Manufacturing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

December 4th, 2025 | Mosunmola Dayo-Olotu | Student Spotlight

This study explores how Digital Twin (DT) technology can transform logistics operations in manufacturing SMEs by improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enabling smarter decision-making. By integrating real-time data, IoT sensors, and predictive analytics, Digital Twins create virtual replicas of logistics processes that help businesses visualize bottlenecks, optimize workflows, and prevent disruptions before they occur. Drawing on case studies and industry evidence, the research presents a practical and scalable framework that makes DT adoption more accessible for resource-constrained SMEs. Beyond operational gains, this work also highlights how DT technology supports sustainability by minimizing waste, improving energy use, and strengthening overall supply chain resilience.

Ethical Implications of Human-AI Collaboration in Academic Research and Writing

December 4th, 2025 | Iliana Paulino Fernandez | Student Spotlight

The fast expansion of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, Grammarly, and other large language models is completely modifying how academic research is conducted, written, and reviewed, however ethical standards and institutional policies have not evolved at the same speed. This research is projected to examine the ethical implications of human-AI collaboration in academic research and writing, with the additional aim of mapping current practices and developing a framework for responsible AI use in academia in the future. Using a mixed secondary research design, the project fuses (1) a systematic literature review of empirical and conceptual studies published between 2020 and 2025 on AI use, academic integrity, and research ethics; (2) document and policy analysis of AI-related guidelines from universities and major academic publishers; and (3) comparative analysis of global AI ethics and governance frameworks (e.g., UNESCO, OECD, IEEE, AI4People, COPE). The analysis is guided by technology adoption theories (such as the Technology Acceptance Model and Diffusion of Innovation), ethical theories (deontological, consequentialist, virtue, and care ethics), and academic authorship and integrity standards. The research addresses four core questions: (1) What ethical concerns arise when researchers use AI tools in academic research and writing? (2) How do institutions and publishers currently address these concerns in policy? (3) How can transparency and accountability be ensured in human–AI collaborative research? and (4) What guidelines can promote ethical AI use in academic work? The expected outcome is a synthesized ethical framework that integrates principles of transparency, accountability, beneficence, justice, and human autonomy, offering practical recommendations for universities and publishers seeking to standardize AI-related research and writing policies.

Adaptive behavior of paramedics: The heterogeneous impact of paramedic crew workload on scene time duration and probability of patient transport

November 20th, 2025 | Mohammad Delasay | Guest Lecture

Emergency medical services (EMS) play a critical role in patient care, yet the variability in demand—by severity, timing, and location—makes capacity planning challenging. Paramedics must stabilize, treat, refer, or transport patients while managing both physical and cognitive fatigue, which may influence their decision-making. This ongoing research explores how fatigue affects EMS crew decisions on the scene. We develop a workload measure that represents fatigue and employ statistical methods to establish a causal link between workload and scene outcomes. Specifically, we analyze the heterogeneous impact of workload on scene time and transport decision across four call types: cardiac arrest, trauma, opioid overdose, and influenza-like illness. These four call types have distinct operational and medical features, representing varying levels of clinical complexity and requiring different degrees of paramedic discretion.

On the Disturbing Similarities Between Conspiracy Theories and Critical Media Literacy: A Political Epistemological Response

November 6th, 2025 | Dr. Yuya Takeda | Research Showcase

The point of departure of this paper is the striking similarities between the dispositions critical media literacy education aims to cultivate and the characteristics conspiracy theorists claim to embody. The golden question of critical literacy, “who benefits?” is in fact the central question of conspiracy theorists: “cui bono?” While critical media literacy educators teach learners to disrupt the common sense, to interrogate multiple viewpoints, to focus on sociopolitical issues, and to take actions and promote social justice (Lewison et al., 2002), conspiracy theorists claim that they do exactly those things (Harambam, 2020). The question, however, is not demarcating “critical” from “conspiratorial,” but “desirable” from “undesirable” exercises of critical reading and writing. This is because the former demarcation presupposes the undesirability of conspiracy theorizing, the danger of which is evident from the fact that actual conspiracies take place rather frequently in politics and, thus, stigmatization of conspiracy theorizing makes it easier for conspirators to get away with their conspiracies (Pigden, 2007).

In this paper, I illuminate conspiracy theories as a textual genre that exposes the limits of the modernist facts-values dichotomy (Putnam, 2002) and explore an alternative pragmatic pathway to re-stabilize the idea of objectivity, understood not as the realm of Kantian noumenon disconnected from human subjectivity, but as a phenomenal achievement through inter-subjective agreements.
For this, I first engage in a discourse analysis of educational YouTube videos on conspiracy theories and demonstrate the tendency of them to overly rely on facts to counter conspiracy theories. I then highlight the centrality of meanings in conspiracy theories and discuss the insufficiency of techno-scientific “debunking” of conspiracy theories. Drawing on political epistemology, I conclude the paper by highlighting the pivotal epistemic role of trust and sketch a pragmatist conception of objectivity that transcends facts-values dichotomy.

Dropout Entertainment – Scaling Inclusivity and Innovation in Canada’s Independent Music Industry

November 6th, 2025 | Dr. Daniel Nielson | Research Showcase

The point of departure of this paper is the striking similarities between the dispositions critical media literacy education aims to cultivate and the characteristics conspiracy theorists claim to embody. The golden question of critical literacy, “who benefits?” is in fact the central question of conspiracy theorists: “cui bono?” While critical media literacy educators teach learners to disrupt the common sense, to interrogate multiple viewpoints, to focus on sociopolitical issues, and to take actions and promote social justice (Lewison et al., 2002), conspiracy theorists claim that they do exactly those things (Harambam, 2020). The question, however, is not demarcating “critical” from “conspiratorial,” but “desirable” from “undesirable” exercises of critical reading and writing. This is because the former demarcation presupposes the undesirability of conspiracy theorizing, the danger of which is evident from the fact that actual conspiracies take place rather frequently in politics and, thus, stigmatization of conspiracy theorizing makes it easier for conspirators to get away with their conspiracies (Pigden, 2007).

In this paper, I illuminate conspiracy theories as a textual genre that exposes the limits of the modernist facts-values dichotomy (Putnam, 2002) and explore an alternative pragmatic pathway to re-stabilize the idea of objectivity, understood not as the realm of Kantian noumenon disconnected from human subjectivity, but as a phenomenal achievement through inter-subjective agreements.
For this, I first engage in a discourse analysis of educational YouTube videos on conspiracy theories and demonstrate the tendency of them to overly rely on facts to counter conspiracy theories. I then highlight the centrality of meanings in conspiracy theories and discuss the insufficiency of techno-scientific “debunking” of conspiracy theories. Drawing on political epistemology, I conclude the paper by highlighting the pivotal epistemic role of trust and sketch a pragmatist conception of objectivity that transcends facts-values dichotomy.

Automated Polyp Segmentation in Colonoscopy using Deep Learning

October 23rd, 2025 | Dr. Ayokunle Ige | Research Showcase

Early detection of colorectal polyps plays a vital role in preventing colorectal cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. This presentation will explore how deep learning is transforming medical imaging by enabling the automated segmentation of polyps from colonoscopy images, a process critical for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment. Dr. Ayokunle Ige will discuss how modern neural network architectures can learn complex visual patterns, improve segmentation accuracy across diverse datasets, and assist clinicians in achieving faster, more reliable outcomes in gastrointestinal healthcare.

Humanizing AI: Emotional Cues in Digital Healthcare Appointment Booking

October 23rd, 2025 | Dr. Vahideh Baradaran and Dr. Mehdi Akhgari | Research Showcase

The expansion of AI driven self service tools is reshaping how patients access healthcare, yet most appointment booking chatbots communicate in a purely transactional manner. Drawing on service marketing and human–computer interaction literature, this study examines whether adding explicit emotional cues (warm language and supportive emojis) to a booking chatbot alters patients’ overall experience during a simulated scheduling task.

Using a between subjects experiment (N ≈ 200), participants are randomly assigned to interact with one of two scripted booking scenarios: Emotional AI or Neutral AI. After the interaction, respondents complete a validated questionnaire that captures five SERVBOT dimensions (reliability, responsiveness, assurance, empathy, entertainment), emotional engagement, overall experience (satisfaction, trust, perceived value), and behavioural intentions (re use, recommendation). Moderators such as privacy concern and technology readiness are also recorded. Group differences will be analysed with independent samples t tests and one way ANOVA. Mediation and moderation will be assessed using the PROCESS macro with bootstrapped ordinary least squares regression.

We expect the Emotional AI condition to yield higher empathy, entertainment, and emotional engagement scores, which subsequently elevate overall experience and positive behavioural intentions. Findings will provide actionable guidance for healthcare organisations deciding whether—and how—to embed emotionally intelligent design features in digital front doors, balancing operational efficiency with patient centred values.

Decoding the Economics of Happiness: How Mediating Variables Shape the Link Between GDP and Happiness

October 9th, 2025 | Dr. Iqtidar Shah | Research Showcase

This study examines the relationship between economic growth (GDP per capita) and subjective well-being (happiness) in Canada, emphasizing the mediating roles of economic and social factors. Using data from 2012–2024 and applying Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), the analysis reveals that GDP’s direct effect on happiness is statistically insignificant. Instead, social factors, education, health, income inequality, work pressure, and leisure emerge as significant mediators, shaping the indirect pathways between economic growth and happiness. Conversely, economic factors such as income, employment, inflation, and taxes play a limited or inconsistent role in this relationship.

The findings highlight that rising GDP alone does not guarantee improved well-being in high-income contexts like Canada. Economic gains must be translated into social investments that enhance health, education, work-life balance, and equitable income distribution. Policymakers should prioritize reducing work pressure, addressing inequality, and expanding access to leisure and healthcare to ensure that economic progress fosters genuine and inclusive well-being. These results challenge the traditional reliance on economic indicators and call for a broader, human-centered approach to development policy.

The Effect of Binge-Watching on Reconsumption: Understanding Cognitive and Emotional Engagement in Narrative Media

October 9th, 2025 | Dr. Niusha Safarpour | Research Showcase

This presentation draws from my SSHRC-funded doctoral research, which examines how binge versus paced consumption of narrative content influences viewers’ desire to rewatch, emotional engagement, and cognitive processing. Using experimental studies grounded in consumer psychology and media research, the work uncovers how the pace of viewing shapes perceived progress, satisfaction, and long-term attachment to stories. Beyond its theoretical contribution to goal pursuit and narrative consumption, the project illustrates a practical framework for studying how digital formats affect audience experience—bridging insights from psychology, marketing, and entertainment research.

Faculty Meet and Greet with Fulbright Scholar Dr. Ally Zhou

August 14th, 2025 | Dr. Stewart Fast, Dr. Aigerim Shilibekova, Roya Hosseinpour, Ally Zhou | Faculty Connections

The Office of Research and Scholarship is pleased to invite you to a meet and greet with Dr. Ally Zhou, the UCW Fulbright Canada Research Chair in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning. This session will feature remarks from UCW senior leadership, scientific and program leads involved in the initiative, and Dr. Zhou herself.

Ethics 101: Introduction to Research Ethics at UCW

July 3rd, 2025 | Lilya Shienko and Dr. Amit Kohli | Faculty Connections

Want to know more about how the UCW Research Ethics Board (REB) works? Are you planning research projects involving human participants? The REB will deliver a series of outreach and training sessions to share information and provide tips on preparing your REB application. The first of these sessions, "Research Ethics 101," will be held this Thursday, July 3rd, at West Pender (room 601) and online, from 2:45 - 4:00 pm. This session will be hosted by REB members Lilya Shienko, Amit Kohli, and Caio Cardoso. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and chat with REB members - we hope to see many of you there!

Project Management Approaches and Best Practices in the Literature and Insights from Project Management Leaders in the Healthcare Industry in Canada: A Multi-Methods Study

June 12th, 2025 | Nishit Gohel and Madushika Kariyakaranage | Student Spotlight

Project management practices have increasingly been adopted in the healthcare industry to manage complexity while ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality care. This research study examined project management approaches in Canadian healthcare using a two-phase, multi-methods framework. Phase 1 involved a scoping review of project management literature, and Phase 2 consisted of qualitative semi-structured interviews with seven healthcare project management professionals from federal, local, and provincial organizations. Interview data were initially coded manually to identify key categories and then thematically analyzed using NVivo to support structured theme development. The findings revealed that while traditional waterfall approaches remained relevant for large-scale and infrastructure-focused projects, agile and hybrid models were more frequently applied to digital health initiatives requiring rapid iteration and stakeholder engagement. Interview participants emphasized that methodology selection was shaped by funding structures, organizational governance, and the nature of healthcare services. Common challenges included fragmented data systems, inconsistent key performance indicators (KPIs), and limited interoperability across provincial and territorial health systems. Stakeholder engagement strategies varied depending on the target group such as healthcare providers, patients, government bodies, and industry partners and the need for adaptive, context-sensitive project management was consistently highlighted across both literature and practice. This research provided a comprehensive understanding of how Canadian healthcare projects can benefit from flexible, fit-for-purpose methodologies that align with evolving technological and policy environments.

Quantitative Analysis of Ethical Consideration of AI Use Within MBA Programs

June 12th, 2025 | Florence Metu | Student Spotlight

This study evaluates the ethical challenges of artificial intelligence (AI) adoption in the University Canada West (UCW) MBA program, focusing on how algorithmic bias, transparency gaps, and data privacy concerns, widely documented in the literature as critical ethical issues impact students’ engagement and institutional trust. The research aims at providing data-driven recommendations for ethical AI governance in business education. This study contributes to theory by empirically validating a dual ethical framework (utilitarian and deontological) and to practice by offering institution-specific policy recommendations for MBA programs. Using a quantitative approach, the study analyzed responses from 277 UCW MBA students regarding their experience with three implemented AI tools: automated grading systems, adaptive learning platforms, and predictive analytics. The analysis applied both utilitarian (cost-benefit) and deontological (principle-based) ethical frameworks to evaluate the data. Statistical methods included exploratory factor analysis, logistic regression, and mediation modeling to identify significant relationships between ethical concerns and technology adoption rates. Findings revealed that students were more likely to adopt AI tools when perceived benefits outweighed risks (utilitarian reasoning), while concerns about bias, fairness, and guilt significantly reduced adoption and engagement (deontological reasoning).

These insights validate the relevance of both ethical frameworks in shaping MBA students’ responses to AI in education. Also, 68% of students expressed concerns about algorithmic fairness, particularly international students (p < 0.01). Transparency issues reduced tool adoption by 42% compared to systems with clear explanations. Privacy concerns showed the strongest negative correlation with engagement (r = 0.71), and faculty training gaps accounted for 35% of variance in students trust levels. Theoretically, this study contributes to business education literature by validating a dual ethical framework for technology evaluation in diverse student populations. The study concludes that ethical AI integration requires’ mandatory algorithm audits, enhanced transparency protocols, and targeted faculty development. Future research should examine the longitudinal effects of these interventions on learning outcomes.

Project Management Approaches and Best Practices in the Literature and Insights from Project Management Leaders in the Healthcare Industry in Canada: A Multi-Methods Study

June 12th, 2025 | Nishit Gohel and Madushika Kariyakaranage | Student Spotlight

Project management practices have increasingly been adopted in the healthcare industry to manage complexity while ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality care. This research study examined project management approaches in Canadian healthcare using a two-phase, multi-methods framework. Phase 1 involved a scoping review of project management literature, and Phase 2 consisted of qualitative semi-structured interviews with seven healthcare project management professionals from federal, local, and provincial organizations. Interview data were initially coded manually to identify key categories and then thematically analyzed using NVivo to support structured theme development. The findings revealed that while traditional waterfall approaches remained relevant for large-scale and infrastructure-focused projects, agile and hybrid models were more frequently applied to digital health initiatives requiring rapid iteration and stakeholder engagement. Interview participants emphasized that methodology selection was shaped by funding structures, organizational governance, and the nature of healthcare services. Common challenges included fragmented data systems, inconsistent key performance indicators (KPIs), and limited interoperability across provincial and territorial health systems. Stakeholder engagement strategies varied depending on the target group such as healthcare providers, patients, government bodies, and industry partners and the need for adaptive, context-sensitive project management was consistently highlighted across both literature and practice. This research provided a comprehensive understanding of how Canadian healthcare projects can benefit from flexible, fit-for-purpose methodologies that align with evolving technological and policy environments.

Innovations in Sustainability Business Models for Conservation and Development - The Case of Conflict-affected Indigenous Mindanao

June 3rd, 2025 | Dr. Urooj Malik | Research Showcase

The presentation introduces a case study of an innovative Sustainability Business Model that harmonizes agribusiness development with ecosystem restoration to drive inclusive growth in conflict-affected regions. Drawing from applied research in Mindanao, Philippines, the case study demonstrates how participatory, multi-stakeholder frameworks can simultaneously achieve three critical outcomes: (1) enhanced food security for Indigenous communities through sustainable agriculture, (2) livelihood creation via inclusive value chains, and (3) large-scale rehabilitation of degraded watersheds. The model's effectiveness stems from its unique integration of business viability, ecological regeneration, and social equity principles. The case study illustrates how strategic alliances between corporations, government agencies, NGOs, and Indigenous groups have generated measurable improvements in both socioeconomic indicators and environmental metrics. Emphasis will be placed on the model’s conflict-sensitive approach, which prioritizes cultural preservation, equitable benefit-sharing, and intergenerational knowledge transfer. Findings suggest that the model offers a scalable template for post-conflict development, with direct relevance to achieving multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The discussion will highlight transferable lessons for policymakers, development practitioners, and business leaders seeking to reconcile economic growth with environmental stewardship and social justice in fragile contexts.

Unveiling Representation: A Discourse and Visual Analysis of First Nations in Discover Canada

June 3rd, 2025 | Dr. Narjes Hashemi | Research Showcase

Guided by critical pedagogy and decolonization theory, this study critically examines how Discover Canada, the official citizenship guide, represents First Nations Peoples and their histories. Employing discourse and visual analysis, I investigate the textual and visual narratives that shape newcomers’ understanding of Canadian identity (Hyslop-Healy, 2022; Nordquist, 2020). Through this lens, I aim to reveal the deeper implications of how the guide portrays the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians. 
 
Methodologically, the study scrutinizes language use, such as emotionally charged terminology and structural elements, alongside imagery within the guide. By referring to settlers as ""invaders"" or ""colonizers"" and addressing colonialism’s enduring impacts, this approach challenges dominant narratives and exposes how colonial ideologies remain embedded in Canada’s historical storytelling (Jafri, 2012). 
 
Preliminary findings indicate that Discover Canada frequently oversimplifies or distorts Indigenous histories, perpetuating narratives that reinforce settler-colonial ideologies. For instance, while recent revisions have removed problematic phrases, the guide still omits critical details, such as the true implications of treaties and the legacies of residential schools (Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, 2012). Visual elements further contribute to this distortion, often sidelining Indigenous perspectives in favor of glorified settler narratives (Hyslop-Healy, 2022). 
 
These misrepresentations have profound implications, shaping how newcomers perceive Canada’s past and its reconciliation efforts. As Yoshida (2014) notes, such biased education risks perpetuating structural racism, while research by the Environics Institute (2016) highlights that immigrant are eager to learn about Indigenous histories and support reconciliation. 
 
This research calls for a reimagining of the citizenship guide—one that authentically integrates Indigenous narratives. By addressing representational gaps, we can contribute to a more inclusive and truthful vision of Canadian identity, fostering mutual respect and understanding.

Urban Biodiversity at the Core: How Ecological Infrastructure Supports Natural Capital and Ecosystem Services

May 22nd, 2025 | Dr. Hala Fendi | Research Showcase

This research explores the critical role of ecological infrastructure in enhancing natural capital and delivering ecosystem services, particularly in Canadian communities facing aging infrastructure and climate change. By combining theory, case analysis, and valuation methods, the research advocates for integrating ecological infrastructure into urban planning and corporate strategy to achieve both environmental and economic resilience.

Atypical Scholars in Atypical Settings

May 22nd, 2025 | Dr. Rafia Faiz | Research Showcase

When excellence is divorced from equity, it quickly drifts toward mediocrity. Western academia prides itself on “merit,” yet it remains stubbornly calibrated to whiteness, masculinity and elite pedigree. Refusing this complacency, this chapter draws on intersectional analysis, critical-whiteness scholarship and reflexive narrative to expose cultural taxation, share a quadrant map that plots where typical and atypical scholars encounter, subvert or re-engineer typical and atypical institutions, and advance mentorship-as-activism. The argument is that institutions that discount atypicality cripple their own scholarship. Join us for a candid conversation on why valuing atypicality is a catalyst for richer, more socially responsive scholarship.

Evolution of the First Science Lab at UCW

May 8th, 2025 | Dr. Prashant Kumar | Faculty Connections

The lab opened its doors to students in Fall 2023, offering a dynamic space for experiential learning and skill development. Over the past year, the lab has become a hub of innovation and scholarly activity. We have initiated several exciting projects, including the creation and publication of lab manuals and pedagogical research to enhance teaching methods. This presentation will delve into the various dimensions of scholarly activity within the science lab, highlighting our achievements and future endeavors. Your presence and insights would be greatly valued as we explore the lab's further development, interdisciplinary collaboration and its impact on our academic community.

Beyond Traffic: Harnessing Real-Time Multimodal Mobility Monitoring for Inclusive Urban Planning

April 24th, 2025 | Dr. Mozhgan Pourmoradnasseri | Research Showcase

In this talk, I will share key insights and outcomes from a multi-year research collaboration with the City of Tartu, Estonia, carried out during my time at the University of Tartu. The project focused on data-driven modeling of urban mobility to support more inclusive and sustainable transportation planning. While popular visions of future cities often revolve around automation and autonomous vehicles, our work emphasized a people-centered approach, aligned with the EU Green Deal and Tartu’s bold commitment to achieving climate neutrality by 2030. We developed a real-time, multimodal mobility monitoring system that integrates diverse data sources, including IoT traffic counters, public transport ticketing data, and bike-sharing records, into a unified digital platform. Through modeling and simulation, we reconstructed high-resolution mobility patterns across the city, even in the face of limited sensor coverage. This system served as a dynamic decision-support tool for the city, offering both descriptive and prescriptive insights. The project contributed to advancing Tartu’s sustainable transport goals and emphasizes the importance of long-term, disaggregated, and multimodal mobility data for adaptive urban planning. By sharing the technical and practical lessons learned, this talk aims to highlight how similar approaches can be adapted in other cities working toward climate neutrality and smarter mobility futures.

Exploring Participation in Indigenous Language Media as a Strategy for Disseminating Reliable Health Information: Evidence from Selected Community Radio Stations in Rural Ghana

April 24th, 2025 | Dr. Manfred Asuman | Research Showcase

This study aimed to ascertain the role community media plays in the dissemination of reliable health information for rural community dwellers. By sampling three community radio stations in rural Ghana, this study presents a new perspective on how health dis/misinformation can be debunked through participatory programming and indigenous language broadcasting on small, community-owned mass media systems. Our study was influenced by Margolin’s (2021) concept of informative fictions. We collected data using in-depth semi-structured interviews and a qualitative radio programme analysis of the health programmes of the participating community radio stations. Our study found that commercial media, herbal medicine practitioners and religious leaders play key roles in the spread of health dis/misinformation in rural Ghana. It was also found that, unlike commercial media, community radio presents an opportunity for local community health workers, such as medical doctors and district health promotion officers, to be involved in producing and broadcasting reliable health information to the members of their communities. The study concludes that whereas trust in religious leaders and herbal medicine practitioners promotes the spread of health dis/misinformation, programme producers and health workers who participate in health programme production on community radio stations can also capitalise on the trust of their community members to debunk health disinformation.

Publishing case studies workshop – Tips on successful submissions and new UCW library resources

April 9th, 2025 | Dr. Zahra Ladha, Kailey Fukushima and Elizabeth Johnston | Workshop

Drawing on her experience in successfully submitting a case study to Ivey Publishing, Dr. Zahra Ladha will share tips on how to ideate, write, format and publish a case study. She will also be joined by UCW Library colleagues Kailey Fukushima and Elizabeth Johnston, who will share a new library resource for faculty interested in developing their own case studies.

A Systematic Literature Review on The Technological Adaptability of Cloud Edge Computing Frameworks on Enhancing Patient Experience in the Healthcare Industry

April 1st, 2025 | Dr. Mahmood Dekhordi and Lai Lai Khaing | Research Showcase

Cloud and Edge computing technologies are widely recognised for providing IT services effectively and ability to process data at its local source. These technologies provide enhance patient experience in the healthcare industry. The study analyses 150 cloud-edge frameworks in the healthcare industry to bridge the gap in adaptability of cloud-edge framework in the healthcare by providing overlooked adoption factors in the existing cloud-edge frameworks and key adoption factors that contributes to patient experience in the healthcare. The outcome of the research offers data-driven insights that support in refining cloud-edge frameworks that lead to providing enhanced patient experience.

Learning by Simulation: Exploring the Benefits of Scenario-based Teaching Method

April 1st, 2025 | Prof. Maryam Safa Schneider | Research Showcase

Maryam will explore how immersive, perspective-taking experiences—where participants step into the shoes of others—can enhance empathy, improve perspective-taking, and promote behavior change. These methods are powerful teaching tools and offer valuable qualitative and quantitative research opportunities.

A Systematic Literature Review of Effects/Contribution of Big Data and Analytics towards Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals

March 20th, 2025 | Ratan Panchal | Student Spotlight

This presentation explores how Big Data and Analytics contribute to achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It highlights sector-specific applications in healthcare, energy, agriculture, and smart cities while addressing challenges such as data privacy, digital divides, and technological constraints. With insights into data-driven decision-making, infrastructure investment, and governance strategies, this research underscores the transformative potential of Big Data in shaping a sustainable future."

Roadmap for Portraying Digital Transformation Framework for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) - Building Organizational Dynamic Capabilities

March 20th, 2025 | Moulshree Saini | Student Spotlight

Digital Transformation (DT) is considered critical to the success of business empowerment, thus allowing competition within various industries. However, the different internal and external factors affecting organizations have influenced the longevity and sustainability of businesses, especially SMEs. This paper aims to explore digital transformation research in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), taking into account their importance in the economic development of countries. Utilizing the various research contributions revolving around the relationship between DT and SMEs, the authors used a scientometric analytical approach using Biblioshiny that included 391 documents indexed in Scopus. PRISMA guidelines allowed a systematic and structured approach to establishing the various keywords used in the study (PRISMA, n.d.). The literature analysis of DT in SMEs provided the needed research framework to identify the practices related to or associated with implementing DT strategies in SMEs. The Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework was used to categorize the findings. DT strategies and success factors such as management and culture were associated with the organizational context, while financial capability was linked to the technological context. In addition, the authors appreciated the increase in publication numbers that have studied the DT process in SMEs. Researchers and academics in fields such as IT and decision-makers in DT within SMEs find this research useful. Governmental organizations associated with DT adoption for SMEs would also benefit from the research study, thus allowing SMEs to achieve a competitive edge and productivity.

Assessing the Influence of UCW’s Ecosystem on the Entrepreneurial Intent of MBA Students

March 20th, 2025 | Prateek Bablani | Student Spotlight

Entrepreneurship is a key driver of innovation and economic growth, and universities play a crucial role in shaping students’ entrepreneurial intent. This study analyzes how University Canada West’s (UCW) entrepreneurial support system (ESS)—including mentorship, funding, and innovation-driven learning—affects MBA students’ attitudes (ATB), confidence (PBC), and social influences (SSN) using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) framework. A comprehensive survey of 640 MBA students was conducted through direct classroom engagement, ensuring diverse and high-quality data collection. Despite challenges such as navigating faculty coordination and securing voluntary participation, this research reflects the real experiences and perspectives of students at UCW. The findings will provide insights into the effectiveness of UCW’s entrepreneurial initiatives, highlighting areas for improvement to better support students in their entrepreneurial journey. By understanding how a university’s ecosystem shapes entrepreneurial intent, this research contributes to broader discussions on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in higher education.

From Idea to Patent: Integrated RFID-Based System for Real-Time Inventory Tracking, Product Path Monitoring, and Nutritional Content Analysis

March 6th, 2025 | Dr. Amit Kohli | Research Showcase

In this seminar, Amit Kohli will discuss his experience patenting an invention. The presentation will begin with an overview of the patenting process, its importance, and key considerations, followed by an in-depth discussion of his patented system, detailing how RFID technology enhances inventory tracking, monitors product movement, and ensures nutritional transparency across the supply chain. This session will provide valuable insights into real-time supply chain optimization and the role of emerging technologies in improving efficiency and compliance.

Leveraging HR Analytics to Drive Learning & Development and Boost Organizational Equity

March 6th, 2025 | Dr. Gifty Parker | Research Showcase

Join Gifty Parker as she shares a preview of her upcoming presentation at the CPHR 2025 Expo Conference this April. She will discuss how HR analytics can be leveraged to foster equity within employee learning and development (L&D). Her session explores the use of People Analytical Platforms (PAPs) and the ABK model (Affective, Behavioral, Knowledge) to design and implement inclusive strategies that enhance professional growth and organizational success. Attendees will gain insights into how data-driven practices can create tailored development opportunities that meet diverse employee needs while aligning with organizational goals. This presentation provides an opportunity to reflect on how these timely insights might be applied in academic and professional settings to advance equity and inclusivity. For those interested, conference details can be found here.

Integrating AI with Constructivist Learning Theories: A Framework for Adaptive Learning Environments

February 20th, 2025 | Dr. Vahideh Baradaran | Research Showcase

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in educational environments represents a significant advancement in the pursuit of personalized, adaptive learning experiences. Constructivist learning theories, which emphasize active learner engagement, social interaction, and knowledge construction, have traditionally required significant human intervention to tailor educational experiences to individual learners. However, the scalability of these methods has been a persistent challenge, particularly in large and diverse classrooms. AI presents an opportunity to overcome these challenges by dynamically adjusting educational content, providing real-time feedback, and facilitating social interaction, all in alignment with constructivist principles. This research aims to develop a theoretical framework that integrates AI with constructivist learning theories to create adaptive learning environments that are both personalized and scalable.

Racism in Canada’s Immigration Policies

February 20th, 2025 | Dr. Tasneem Ahmad | Research Showcase

My talk will focus on anti-Palestinian racism in Canada's Immigration policies. Palestinian Canadians have been betrayed by Canada’s failure to help their family members escape Israel’s ongoing genocidal aggression in Gaza, Palestine. A closer look at Canada’s special visit program demonstrates a wilful failure to treat Palestinians in need of refuge and urgent humanitarian aid as refugees. Canada’s immigration policies also reveal a failure to treat Palestinian Canadians as equal citizens. In this discussion, I use Hannah Arendt’s account to argue that both Palestinian refugees and Palestinian Canadian citizens are unjustly excluded under Canada’s policies.

Engaging and Enabling Teacher Feedback: A Kaleidoscopic Approach

February 4th, 2025 | Dr. Ange Quapp and Dr. Shrawani Sen | Workshop

Feedback when constructive enables students to grow and is considered the cornerstone of effective and progressive education. However, what if we probe you, as educators to view feedback from an alternative lens?

This interactive workshop delves into a dynamic, multifaceted approach to teacher feedback, shifting from traditional evaluation models to a student-centered perspective. It will engage the audience with a real-life case study, mind mapping and brainstorming session, and hands-on practical strategies that have been tested. Together we will explore how real-time, constructive student feedback can enhance teaching effectiveness, foster engagement, and build meaningful learning experiences and relationships.

Join us in redefining feedback as a collaborative process, in which teachers and students co-create a more responsive and impactful educational environment. Let’s explore the kaleidoscopic approach to feedback!

Leveraging AI for long-term Sustainability: Opportunities and Threats in Achieving SDGs

January 23rd, 2025 | Dr. Sherry Abdellatif | Research Showcase

AI has revolutionized the global financial landscape, offering opportunities, while raising ethical concerns, particularly in the context of sustainable finance. The study presents the importance of sustainability in fostering equitable and inclusive financial inclusion, achieving the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and addressing challenges in adhering to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices. The purpose of this study is to explore how AI could be leveraged to drive sustainability. The study aims to identify the opportunities and challenges faced in integrating AI within Canadian and global financial institutions to create sustainable finance and a green economy while achieving the SDGs. The study's significance includes academic and practical contributions and policy recommendations for policymakers and industry leaders to foster sustainable AI-driven technology adoption. The study methodology utilizes a qualitative research method with an exploratory, descriptive design using in-depth semi-structured interviews with experts in Canada and globally. The study findings show how AI Tech adoption presents opportunities, while posing ethical concerns and threats to long-term sustainability. The study also shows how AI ethics can be integrated into ESG practices to achieve long-term sustainability. The study develops a global AI-Sustainability framework to address these AI-ethical concerns and provides a more balanced approach that aligns AI-ethics and SDGs goals, while addressing the needs of various stakeholders; including women and indigenous communities and bringing about better long-term sustainability that ensures inclusive and equitable access to green financial services. The study presents recommendations to leverage AI technology responsibly and utilize AI ethics for better social impact, and long-term sustainability that aligns with the SDGs, emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion to ensure that all global communities benefit from sustainable finance. The study provides institutional support and policymaking to FIs and financial regulators, including the central banks and securities commissions in Canada and globally. Future research and collaboration are essential to support global interdisciplinary projects and longitudinal studies that address the opportunities and challenges that AI presents to long-term sustainability, particularly in relation to other industries.

Sustainability Standards and Reporting: Indigenous Perspectives and the Potential for Blockchain Technology – The Trans Mountain Pipeline Case

January 23rd, 2025 | Prof. Jack Smith | Research Showcase

This presentation will explore current opportunities to reverse the distrust that has develop over the years in the Indigenous/governmental/extractive industry relationships. It proposes that Indigenous participation can and ought to occur early in the development of industry standards set by government agencies and industry certification offices in their CSR and Sustainability efforts to acquire a social license to operate. The presentation will also advance the prospect of using the current resource extraction agreements to more fully engage Indigenous participation. Most importantly, the presentation will introduce and discuss the potential of blockchain technology to reflect Indigenous concepts of sustainability in assessment, monitoring, and reporting on sustainability that is transparent, and thus promotes trust and confidence in extractive industry operations and ESG reporting. This session will appeal to academics, Indigenous and management consultants working with consultation and accommodation/referrals files, Canadian governments, and agencies that springboard economic and business development from resource extraction industry activity, among others.