Direct[Message]: Understanding Mediated Engagement in the Arts for Marginalized Older Adults in Hamilton, Guelph, and London, Ontario

The Mitacs Intern will support the Direct[Message] project to develop and undertake online arts workshops for older adults to reduce social isolation resulting from COVID-19 and develop an understanding of the needs and wants of older adults who experience barriers to participation in the arts. The Intern will interview participants to gain knowledge about their experiences participating online in an effort to develop information that may be shared with engineers who are currently developing digital prototypes to support access to and participation in the arts. The development of enhanced technological possibilities for arts engagement is seen as an important resource for reducing the negative effects resulting from social marginalization and isolation.

Faculty Supervisor:

Tara La Rose

Student:

Christina Luzius-Vanin

Partner:

Centre[3]

Discipline:

Social work

Sector:

Arts, entertainment and recreation

University:

McMaster University