Vargo Teaching Chair Recipients
Vargo Teaching Chair
Vargo Teaching Chairs at the University of Alberta have been created to foster excellence in teaching at the University. This program is committed to supporting individuals who have a history of educational leadership, teaching innovation, and who are committed to enhancing the learning experience of students at all levels
Current Projects
Dr. Ava K. Chow, Associate Professor, Department of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry - 2024 Vargo Teaching Chair
Unlocking Student Potential: Leveraging LMS for Personalized Education and Wellbeing
Abstract
Learning Management Systems (LMS) administer courses and are essential for documenting, tracking and providing feedback to students. LMS also collect extensive amounts of data about how students use the LMS. This information can act as a proxy for student engagement and may be useful for early identification of at-risk learners so that interventions can be implemented to improve success rates and learning experiences.
The objectives of this Vargo proposal are to harvest the data collected by the LMS and use this information to train a machine learning model to optimize algorithms that identify students who may be at risk of academic jeopardy. Individualized, targeted interventions will then be developed to address student barriers. The efficacy of these interventions on student success, and wellbeing will be evaluated using qualitative and quantitative methods.
The tools developed and insights gained from this project can translate to multiple departments
across the University and aligns with the University’s strategic plan 2023-2033 to develop artificial intelligence as an area of global excellence. The interventions developed will also play a role in addressing the Indigenous, as well as the Equity, Diversity and Inclusivity Strategic Plans by identifying and systematically dismantling barriers that hinder student success.
Dr. Fatima Mraiche, Associate Professor Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry - 2023 Vargo Teaching Chair
Unveiling the Impact of Undergraduate Research: Exploring New Horizons in the Department of Pharmacology’s Pilot Study at the University of Alberta
Abstract
Undergraduate research is a valuable learning opportunity that equips students with practical skills, interdisciplinary skills, knowledge, and a passion for further education. I propose to develop a research-based learning platform to systematically document and assess undergraduate research activities in the Department of Pharmacology, which could be extended to other departments and faculties at the University of Alberta.
The Department’s current research-intensive program provides an appropriate pilot platform in which to establish clear criteria and measurable undergraduate research output indicators that could be implemented across the institution. The platform will track and assess undergraduate research engagement and outcomes, the development of graduate attributes, and Indigenous engagement in undergraduate research initiatives. It will further investigate the effectiveness of research experience for women and underrepresented groups and assess long-term applicability beyond graduation.
I will apply my experience and expertise in undergraduate program development to review existing models to develop a research-based platform for tracking research activities, using surveys and focus groups to gather data. The results of this study will be available to guide curriculum development and refine program offerings within the department and later across campus. The project aligns with the University of Alberta’s Strategic Plan 2023-2033, emphasizing experiential and work-integrated learning with an embedded commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and the incorporation of Indigenous perspectives.