This field of research addresses achievement and engagement across the lifespan, from cognitive development to socio-emotional well-being in children, adolescents and adults, in order to improve quality of life for individuals and communities. It also includes theories of death and dying, well-being in schools and workplaces, and the challenges of aging in rural settings.
Music therapy is the clinical use of music to address physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. Through a variety of musical experiences, therapists can help clients improve their health and quality of life.
Resiliency is the ability to maintain or quickly return to a state of well-being, even in the face of significant hardship, adversity or stress. Developing resiliency starts at infancy and continues through young adulthood. Resilience is reinforced by healthy schools, communities and workplaces.
Physical activity is a fundamental part of human nature and is essential for healthy development. It can be utilized in community settings to achieve social impact.
User experience design research in this theme focuses on the development of applications based on modeling human performance in complex socio-technical environments as well as understanding the psychological, social and health impacts of technology use by specific user groups including Northern Indigenous communities, children and seniors.
With their expertise in crisis management, mental health issues in the workplace and schools, workplace bullying, inclusion, equity, and diversity, and gendered and sexual violence, the social work and education fields could achieve long-term sustainability by creating meaningful partnerships in the business and not-for-profit sectors.
