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December

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In retrospect: Ontario Tech University in 2020

December 22, 2020

As Ontario Tech positions itself for the promise of new opportunities and innovative approaches in post-secondary education, and in the discovery and application of knowledge in 2021, the university reflects on moments and milestones from the past year.

Ontario Tech University researchers Dr. Janette Hughes (left) and Dr. Sheldon Williamson will serve a second five-year term as Canada Research Chairs.

Influential Ontario Tech researchers reappointed as Canada Research Chairs

December 16, 2020

For their outstanding records of research achievement and discovery, the Government of Canada is renewing the Canada Research Chair appointments of Ontario Tech University researchers Dr. Janette Hughes of the Faculty of Education, and Dr. Sheldon Williamson of the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science to new five-year terms.

Ontario Tech University researchers Dr. Janette Hughes (left) and Dr. Sheldon Williamson will serve a second five-year term as Canada Research Chairs.

December 15 accident on campus

December 16, 2020

With great sadness, Ontario Tech University shares information about a December 15 accident on campus at the new building construction site.

November

Child drawing globe on the ground with chalk

How online learning promotes international collaboration and understanding

November 27, 2020

Researchers Dr. Bill Hunter, Professor in Ontario Tech University’s Faculty of Education, and Dr. Roger Austin, Professor at Ulster University in Northern Ireland, recently published a book documenting how global and community-based online learning projects bolster social cohesion and increase students’ understanding of what it means to be a global citizen.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, Ontario Tech University students received the support and encouragement they needed to continue to focus on their studies.

Ontario Tech welcomes province’s investment in bridging the skills gap

November 06, 2020

Ontario Tech University is positioned as a post-secondary leader in the development and delivery of new high-quality, short-duration programs to help students, new graduates and non-traditional learners enhance their job readiness skills and improve employment prospects.

Globe sitting on top of a book, depicting international studies

Ontario Tech University ready to welcome international students

November 05, 2020

On November 3, Ontario Tech University received approval for its COVID-19 readiness plan from Ontario’s Ministry of Colleges and Universities, putting Ontario Tech on Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s list of Designated Learning Institutions that are allowed to reopen to international students who are not already in Canada.

Polonsky Commons at Ontario Tech University's north Oshawa location.

Participate in Treaties Recognition Week – November 2 to 6

November 02, 2020

At Ontario Tech University, Treaties Recognition Week from November 2 to 6 will raise awareness of the treaties agreed to between Indigenous nations and the Crown (government) in Right of Ontario over the last 250 years.

Polonsky Commons at Ontario Tech University's north Oshawa location.

Ontario Tech University researchers at the forefront of cybersecurity trends

November 02, 2020

In the advent of artificial intelligence, cloud storage, social media and the Internet of Things, cybersecurity stakes have never been higher. And meeting that challenge is a major component of the research portfolio at Ontario Tech University, where dedicated experts are exploring the intersection of technical, legal, social, economic and ethical implications of privacy, security and trust technologies.

October

Electric vehicle inside the ACE Climatic Wind Tunnel at Ontario Tech University.

Ontario Tech, ACE and eCAMION testing how to power autonomous vehicles

October 30, 2020

True autonomous vehicle functionality requires an autonomous AV charging system. That’s where Ontario Tech University, ACE, Canadian advanced-energy storage and charging leader eCAMION, and Ontario’s Autonomous Vehicle Innovation Network (AVIN) enter the picture.

Person in front of three computer screens

Will the COVID-19 pandemic permanently change how people interact?

October 30, 2020

Don't miss the business and futurist perspectives of award-winning science fiction author Madeline Ashby and cybersecurity expert Ira Goldstein on Monday, November 2 as Ontario Tech University’s Faculty of Social Science and Humanities and Digital Life Institute co-host The Pandemic, Online Migration and the Future of Human Interaction.

Rachel Sumner, Executive Director, Ontario Tech Talent Inc.

Ontario Tech Talent Inc. skills-development enterprise welcomes Executive Director

October 23, 2020

Leading international post-secondary education strategist and entrepreneur, Rachel Sumner, will become the first Executive Director of Ontario Tech Talent, a new enterprise to help Ontario Tech students, alumni and community members adapt to rapid change in today’s job market. Ms. Sumner will join Ontario Tech Talent on Monday, November 2.

Dr. Carolyn McGregor, Professor, Faculty of Business and Information Technology (right) is the Inaugural Research Chair in Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Health and Wellness at Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences. With Tim Pauley, Director, Research and Academics, Ontario Shores (left) and Elaina Niciforos, Research and Academics co-op student, Ontario Shores (centre).

Remarkable COVID-19 observation: Fewer incidents of aggression in a mental health-care setting

October 14, 2020

A research partnership involving Ontario Shores and Ontario Tech University is documenting a reduction in aggressive incidents at the hospital during the pandemic, along with the decreased need to use restraints and seclusion to manage patient behaviour. These unexpected learnings could have significant impact on future approaches to mental health support and preventing aggression. The data suggests that health care should not necessarily return to ‘normal’ post-pandemic.

Faculty of Education Building at Ontario Tech University's downtown Oshawa location.

Ontario Tech Faculty of Education celebrates two provincial awards

October 05, 2020

For their efforts to make a positive difference for their students during the COVID-19 pandemic and their dedication to the local community, Ontario Tech University Faculty of Education members Jennifer Laffier and Alison Mann are Minister’s Award of Excellence recipients from the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities.

September

Engineering Building, Ontario Tech University's north Oshawa location.

Remembrance scholarship in honour of Iran plane crash victims

September 30, 2020

In remembrance of the victims of the January 2020 Iran plane crash, the Province of Ontario will provide various publicly-assisted post-secondary institutions with funding for dedicated scholarships for the 2020-2021 academic year, including one at Ontario Tech University.

Dr. Barbara Perry, Professor, Faculty of Social Science and Humanities.

Major international accolade for Ontario Tech researcher Dr. Barbara Perry

September 21, 2020

For the impact of her years of scholarship and research, and her ongoing leadership of Ontario Tech’s Centre on Hate, Bias and Extremism, the American Society of Criminology (ASC) has named Dr. Perry its 2020 Division of Terrorism and Bias Crime (DTBC) Distinguished Scholar.

International student Tobias Cibis is Ontario Tech University's first cotutelle PhD student, concurrently enrolled at Australia's University of Technology Sydney.

Doctoral programming at Ontario Tech achieves new milestone

September 16, 2020

Tobias Cibis will become Ontario Tech’s first cotutelle PhD student by taking the university’s PhD program in Computer Science while simultaneously being enrolled in Australia’s University of Technology Sydney (UTS) PhD program.

Student with laptop

Bring the Campus Library into your class using Canvas

September 10, 2020

To support online and blended course delivery, Ontario Tech's Librarians have developed three e-learning modules instructors can import into their Canvas courses. The text, images, videos, interactive quizzes and activities included in these modules support the development of information literacy skills in your class so students are prepared to find, evaluate and ethically use information from a variety of sources in their assignments.

North Oshawa Campus Library at Ontario Tech University - evening shot

North Oshawa Campus Library opening September 8

September 02, 2020

As the Ontario Tech University community prepares for blended learning and primarily online course delivery this fall, the Campus Library team is ready to support teaching, learning and research with a mix of in-person and online services.

August

Parent and child walking

Ontario Tech researcher co-launches online resource to help parents navigate COVID-19

August 11, 2020

Dr. Lindsay Malloy, Associate Professor with Ontario Tech’s Faculty of Social Science and Humanities, has teamed up with Dr. Amanda Zelechoski, an Associate Professor of psychology at Valparaiso University in Indiana, U.S., to launch Pandemic Parenting: a free online web platform parents can turn to for science-based research around coping with stresses and meeting children’s needs during COVID-19.

Students in Campus Library

Campus Library addressing commercial textbook-access challenges in online environment

August 10, 2020

The traditionally high cost of textbooks and other course materials represents a major financial hurdle for many university students. As part of Ontario Tech University’s commitment to encouraging an engaging and barrier-free student learning experience, the university’s Campus Library offers a print Course Reserve service. Each semester, more than 900 items are available for students to borrow for a one- or three-day period.

Northeast view of City of Oshawa

COVID-19’s lessons for community service delivery: local ideas drive local solutions

August 05, 2020

The unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic form the focus of a new online course this summer for upper-year students at Ontario Tech University and Trent University Durham GTA. In partnership with the City of Oshawa, the City Idea Lab course has students exploring how communities can ‘future proof’ their services so they can be prepared for when the next crisis hits.

July

Specially designed grad boxes were shipped to the class of 2020.

Ontario Tech University honours class of 2020 with virtual celebration

July 29, 2020

For university students, walking across the Convocation stage to receive their degree parchment signals both the end of an era and a new beginning. While Ontario Tech University’s traditional in-person Convocation celebration was not possible in June due to COVID-19 restrictions, the university wanted to do something special to mark the class of 2020’s accomplishments and cheer them on from a distance.

Ontario Tech University's Faculty of Education will hold its Best Practices in Online and Blended Learning conference from August 10 to 14.

Ontario Tech helping teachers do their homework on preparing for online teaching

July 21, 2020

For more than a decade, Ontario Tech University has been a leader in online and blended learning. From Monday, August 10 through Friday, August 14, Ontario Tech’s Faculty of Education will share its expertise and best practices with Ontario Kindergarten-to-Grade-12 teachers through an online teaching and learning conference.

June

Participants using a LittleBits snappable circuit kit to create a flashlight during a previous March Break Maker Camp at Ontario Tech University.

‘Introduction of coding in Grade 1 key to Ontario’s new math curriculum’: Ontario Tech experts

June 24, 2020

Faculty of Education researchers at Ontario Tech University say the Province of Ontario’s new elementary math curriculum gets good early grades, particularly for introducing coding skills to students starting in Grade 1. As a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)-focused university, Ontario Tech has a unique perspective on the benefits of integrating computing sciences and math learning.

Participants using a LittleBits snappable circuit kit to create a flashlight during a previous March Break Maker Camp at Ontario Tech University.

Ontario Tech researcher helping Canada’s military battle right-wing extremism

June 23, 2020

The Department of National Defence’s Mobilizing Insights in Defence and Security (MINDS) program will be funding the research expertise of Ontario Tech University’s Barbara Perry, PhD over the next three years to help examine the dynamics of hateful conduct and right-wing extremism in the Canadian Armed Forces.

Sunday, June 21 marks National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada.

Ontario Tech celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21

June 19, 2020

For the past quarter-century, June 21 has marked Indigenous Peoples Day, offering all Canadians a symbolic opportunity to learn more about the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

Epidemiologist Dr. Emma Bartfay is a Professor with Ontario Tech University's Faculty of Health Sciences.

What lies on the road ahead with COVID-19?

June 02, 2020

Ontario Tech University epidemiologist Dr. Emma Bartfay continues to monitor local, national and global developments with the COVID-19 pandemic. The Faculty of Health Sciences researcher offers her take on the latest developments.

Software and Informatics Research Centre, Ontario Tech University

Dr. Steven Murphy’s statement on racism and violence

June 01, 2020

The Ontario Tech University community is deeply concerned with the disturbing incidents of racism and acts of violence witnessed over the past several days. It is particularly distressing to watch members of Black communities once again experience acts of hatred and violence.

May

Student learning online

Ontario Tech University introduces Student Experience Guarantee for Fall 2020

May 25, 2020

Ontario Tech University recognizes its students have big questions about what their university experience will look like when they begin their studies or return in Fall 2020. That’s why Ontario Tech is offering all students an Experience Guarantee. Any full- or part-time student enrolled in the Fall 2020 term not satisfied with the quality of their university experience can withdraw from their program by Friday, October 9, and receive a full refund, without penalty.

Mitch Frazer was named Chancellor of Ontario Tech University on May 1, 2020.

Mitch Frazer named Ontario Tech University’s Chancellor

May 01, 2020

The Board of Governors of Ontario Tech University has appointed Mitch Frazer as the university’s fourth chancellor. He will assume the role of Chancellor effective May 1, 2020 and will be formally installed at a ceremony to be announced.

April

Typography image - connecting socially while respecting physical distancing.

Good mental-health practices are everyone’s responsibility, says Ontario Tech researcher

April 30, 2020

Social connection is this year’s theme for the Canadian Mental Health Association’s (CMHA) Mental Health Awareness Week (Monday, May 4 through Sunday, May 10). Research shows that social connection and social support are key factors that protect and promote good mental health. The good news is, you don’t have to be in physical proximity to nurture a sense of closeness and connection.

Douglas Allingham, Chair, Ontario Tech University Board of Governors (far right), with student volunteers.

Ontario Tech University applauds its volunteers for their dedicated service to the university

April 20, 2020

During National Volunteer Week (Sunday, April 19 to Saturday, April 25), Ontario Tech University celebrates and thanks its many volunteers, including the university’s Board of Governors, students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members. Throughout the academic year, they contribute their time and resources to serve our community in countless ways. The university accomplishes so much more, thanks to their dedication and generosity.

Dr. Serena Sohrab, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Business and Information Technology, Ontario Tech University.

How to meet the challenges of working and learning from home

April 20, 2020

At Ontario Tech University, Faculty of Business and Information Technology organizational behaviour and human resources researcher Dr. Serena Sohrab says working or studying at home presents a new set of stressors and challenges for remaining productive.

Students talking in front of Ontario Tech University building

Ontario Tech University creates $1 million matching fund for student relief

April 17, 2020

Ontario Tech University students are experiencing financial need like never before due to emergency measures brought on by COVID-19. Many students have lost their part-time jobs with limited prospects for summer employment. To support its students Ontario Tech created the $1-million Student Relief Fund where all donations will be matched by the university.

Fourth-year Ontario Tech Nuclear Engineering student Jordan Crowell.

Biodiversity, health and COVID-19: How did we get here?

April 09, 2020

Ontario Tech University sustainable development expert Dr. Peter Stoett is Dean of the Faculty of Social Science and Humanities, and contributes extensively to international environmental research. Dr. Stoett shares answers to range of questions related to COVID-19, biodiversity and health,

Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor, Ontario Tech University.

Ontario Tech University: Taking a lead role in e-learning

April 02, 2020

Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor, and Co-Chair of eCampusOntario, answers questions about the rapid and seamless transition of Ontario Tech’s curriculum for the closing weeks of the Winter 2020 semester.

March

thumbnail-students-osap

Ontario Tech researcher exploring parent-child conversations about COVID-19

March 25, 2020

As the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic deepens, an Ontario Tech University researcher will examine how Canadian and American parents talk to their children and how kids are adjusting during this historic time. Developmental Psychologist Dr. Lindsay Malloy and her lab team have launched a new study titled Coronavirus: Parent-Child Conversations and Children's Reactions to the Pandemic.

Ontario Tech University's 2020 Virtual Open House takes place Saturday, March 28, starting at 10 a.m.

Check out Ontario Tech University’s virtual Open House Saturday, March 28

March 24, 2020

Physical distancing may be forcing people to stay indoors, but it hasn’t stopped Ontario Tech University’s Open House. Looking to give future students and applicants as much access and information as possible to learn more about us, the university’s annual event has been transformed into a digital, interactive Virtual Open House (ontariotechu.ca/openhouse) on Saturday, March 28.

2017 Three-Minute Thesis winner Ololade Sanusi representing Ontario Tech University at the 2017 provincial 3MT championship in Waterloo, Ontario.

Explain your research to me. You’ve got three minutes: Go!

March 11, 2020

On Thursday, March 12, Ontario Tech University will put the spotlight on graduate student research as candidates for master’s degrees and PhDs publicly share their discoveries during the annual Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) competition.

February

Red dresses displayed in Ontario Tech University's North Oshawa Campus Library.

REDress Campus Campaign to shine spotlight on MMIWG2S crisis – February 10 to 14

February 07, 2020

From Monday, February 10 to Friday, February 14, the REDress Campus Campaign at Ontario Tech University and Durham College will raise awareness, generate conversation, inspire action and honour those who have been touched by the historic and ongoing Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S) crisis.

January

The Ontario Tech-Trent MScN program addresses the need for new nursing leaders who have the technological and critical-thinking skills to make complex decisions.

New professional master’s program to advance leadership of nurses in evolving health-care sector

January 30, 2020

In today’s rapidly changing health-care landscape, the demands on nurses continue to grow. The number of patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes, dementia or heart failure is increasing significantly, while at the same time, health-care providers look for ways to improve the efficiency and quality of health-care services. In this environment, leadership in the field of nursing is needed more than ever.

Fifty-three representatives from four universities, including one faculty member and five graduate students from Ontario Tech, participated in the International University Exchange Symposium in Chemistry, hosted December 3 to 5, 2019 at the Kyushu Institute of Technology (Kyutech) in Japan.

Ontario Tech Chemistry grad students present research at Japan symposia

January 14, 2020

In December, Ontario Tech University Chemistry faculty and graduate students participated for the third time in the Kyutech-Ontario Tech Symposium in Chemistry and the International University Exchange Symposium in Chemistry, hosted at the Kyushu Institute of Technology (Kyutech) in Japan.

Ontario Tech University's Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science hosted its annual Robot in 3 Days competition January 4 to 6 at ACE.

Ontario Tech helps STEM students acquire skills to change the world

January 10, 2020

In the closing days of the recent holiday break, Ontario Tech University Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science students showcased human and technical skills in the 2020 Robot in 3 Days (Ri3D) international challenge, a marathon robot-building competition.