title: Refuge is a place, Solace is a feeling, The Unknown is the journey

contributor: Baraniecki, Jordan (Jordan Baraniecki) (author)

contributor: Conbere, Nick (Nick Conbere) (thesis advisor)

format:
28 p.
electronic

subject:
Drawing
Painting
Performance art
Art, Abstract
Anxiety
Sculpture

abstract: Jordan Baraniecki gives an introspective look at the mind of an artist as he navigated his time during the COVID-19 pandemic and his time in Vancouver. He highlights a moment in his thesis where he dissociated from intense anxiety, which ultimately lead to his current three-dimensional ink collages and the creative projects that followed.

abstract: Video

abstract: Psychology

abstract: Refuge

abstract: Public art

abstract: Media


title: Generating Conversational Data: Attempts at Invading Machine Learning Systems in a World Made of Artifices

type: Text thesis Collection Text

contributor: Saur, Guillaume (Guillaume Saur) (author)

contributor: Emily Carr University of Art and Design Graduate Studies (Degree granting institution)

contributor: Langlois, Justin (Justin Langlois) (thesis advisor)

format:
52 p.
electronic

rights: This thesis is available to view and copy for research and educational purposes only, provided that it is not altered in any way and is properly acknowledged, including citing the author(s), title and full bibliographic details.

subject:
Machine learning
Artificial intelligence
Surveillance
New media art
Photography
Art and camouflage

abstract: The instrumentalization of biometric data orchestrated through surveillance technologies can press today’s users of communication tools, devices, and platforms to opt out of such systems. This graduate research thesis aims to reveal the imperceptible forces that underwrite recognition technologies, through a series of experiments and the creation of multimedia installations that address the unethical relationship between active users and structures of control. Initiated at Emily Carr University, Vancouver, from September 2020 to May 2022, this research project hopes to uncover new possibilities for machine learning systems to propose protective devices based on image datasets composed of theatrical masks. This project explores the potential to apply generative models simultaneously as a response to facial recognition technology and as a mode of resistance to the dominance of these models. Finally, this research contributes to raising awareness toward extractive systems and surveillance technologies, while questioning the impact of artificial intelligence and its potential future outcomes.

abstract: Surveillance technology

abstract: Resistance

abstract: Artifices


title: AN EXPLORATION OF THE GRAPHIC NOVEL, THE FEMALE BODY AND TRAUMATIC MEMORY

type: Text thesis

contributor: Novak, Justin (Justin Novak) (thesis advisor)

format:
34 p.
electronic

subject:
Comic books, strips, etc.
Graphic novels
Autobiographical fiction

abstract: This paper discusses my research and artistic practice during the MFA program. My research is focused on how semi-autobiographical narratives in the form of graphic novels facilitate self-exploration and trauma representation. Through my art projects Tentacles and A Bouquet for You, I explore and reconnect with my female body and my Chinese culture. Together with graphic and narrative experiments conducted in comic form, I reexamine the relationship between myself as the author, my body, and my memories.

abstract: Trauma

abstract: Comics


title: More-than-Human Design: A Mindful Intervention into Design

contributor: Hertz, Garnet (Garnet Hertz) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Lantin, Maria (Maria Lantin) (thesis advisor)

format:
92 p.
electronic

subject:
Design
Methodology
Ecology
Nature
Design--Environmental aspects
Interspecies encounters

abstract:
This research is a critical quest to develop an inclusive More-than-Human (MtH) Design Process that recognizes non-human beings as valuable participants. This approach is meant to actively acknowledge the interconnectedness and interdependence of humans and other beings and act as an intervention in different stages of the “Design Thinking” process that is based on human-centred values. Through an MtH lens, this thesis questions the short-term profit-based model in the design industry that primarily benefits humans while bringing destructive consequences to the rest of the living planet. These consequences, such as global warming, loss of biodiversity, and environmental destruction, have foregrounded the need to take the agency of non-humans more seriously in the design discipline. The MtH Design Process expands the human-centred design methodology by borrowing methods from Interaction Design (IxD) and More-than-Human Participatory Research (MtH-PR).

This work has been structured in four main sections. In part 1, re-frame, we start our inquiry by looking at Interaction Design from a More-than-Human perspective. We include a series of place-based explorations in Vancouver B.C that challenged our old assumptions and biases towards different participants in design. In part 2, re-imagine, we work towards an MtH design practice by identifying its core values. These values guide several case studies that demonstrate how an MtH approach can alter existing products. Part 3, re-build, focuses on formalising the MtH design process by creating changes in different phases of the Design Thinking process. The MtH Design Process includes five steps – 1. Encounter 2. Learn 3. Plan 4. Map and 5. Build – all of which offer multiple methods, prompts, and points of inquiry into the MtH design practice. This work also includes the MtH design toolkit to support its pedagogical potential. The final part, re-connect, concludes the work by discussing the implications of MtH design and its potentials and challenges.

abstract: Nature

abstract: Design process

abstract: Interaction design

abstract: Design thinking

abstract: Design methods

abstract: Design methodology

abstract: Design theory

abstract: Ecology

abstract: More-than-human

abstract: More-than-human design


title: Curating dream experiences: studio-based journey for mental well-being

contributor: Gillieson, Katherine (Katherine Gillieson) (thesis advisor)

format: p. electronic

subject:
Dreams
Dream interpretation
Curatorship
Art therapy
Psychotherapy

abstract:
In the universal sense, as nonexistent, invisible, and subconscious things, dreams have a deep connection with our reality and the self and provide great help to self-study. Everybody dreams and every dream means something, no matter how fragmentary and ridiculous it may appear (Coriat, 1915). They are the products of combinations of our experience, physical activities, mental activities and subconsciousness that we experience during the day, which are fermented in the brain during sleep. My research is a cross-disciplinary journey that takes a philosophical stance of combining arts and design, to interrogate how dreams and subconsciousness help people get close to their psychological world and serve as critical contributors to creatively knowing the self.

The major research approach in my work, that of curation, extends beyond the museum field. The curatorial concept works as a mechanism for dealing with information, “sifting, sorting, hiding, and standing out” (Davis, 2016). It is used in this project for doing design works addressing dream therapy, exhibiting aesthetic works, and collecting the audience’s opinion. Curation, the activity serves for people’s mind elicits dialogue and connection between human and multiple artifacts, escapes the constraints of space and time, and conveys deeper emotions or thoughts to the audience. What’s more, curation delivers a social function. Because exhibitions, as a common outcome of curation, are needed by society and are also a good tool for spreading information.

On any random day, how much of what we say, feel, and do is controlled by the unconscious mind? Based on the psychological fact that our unconscious mind plays a crucial role in shaping behaviour, defining character, managing thoughts and ultimately, determining how we live in life each waking moment, and the intimate connection between dreams and unconscious, this work explores methods for creating an environment of mental well-being for people to pay attention to their psychological world in creative ways – getting to know our dreams.

abstract: Design for mental health

abstract: Dream therapy

abstract: Curation

abstract: Surrealism

abstract: Highly sensitive person


title: Poetic·design: Revealing the tacit aesthetic frameworks in a furniture design practice

contributor: Gaur, Sophie (Sophie Gaur) (thesis advisor)

contributor: St. Pierre, Louise (Louise St. Pierre) (thesis advisor)

format:
55 p.
electronic

subject:
Aesthetics
Furniture design

abstract:
This research is an examination into the aesthetic values of a furniture design practice. In particular, I look at how my Chinese inheritance, my cultural and personal memory, and my assimilated tacit aesthetic values, find agency and expression through practice.
I arrived at this research by being immersed in the actual processes of creative design making. Through hands-on experience and application, I found the expressions and feelings I wanted to communicate. This manifested through a series of practices which included: lighting, material explorations, handcrafting, and my personal stories via varied methods and processes of design.

Moreover, I gave myself space and time, critically, for self reflection. This manner of thinking about design is derived from my personal background — I am driven by my personal journey towards becoming a more authentic version of myself as a furniture designer. I chose to do this through real discernment and detailed understanding of the aesthetics of material. Through the design of interior objects, materials that possess aesthetic agency provide me with the ability to transcribe a particular value in my work — I call this ‘the poetic’.
The poetic design in my research has two aspects:
1) the respect of nature and self in everyday aesthetics and
2) design rooted in a Xiuxing, or spiritually informed and embodied making practice.
It is about furniture design. It is about the home. It is about relating emotionally with the materials. It is about telling a story. It is about a journey. The character of design has been transformed into a method that assists me in building the conversation. I hope the journey that I have experienced, filtered through the lens of a poetic design method, can inspire or resonate with other designers or crafters who have similar cultural affiliations.

Coming from a maker's perspective, I see the integration of utilitarianism and aesthetics, representing the ecology of self and the ecology of a maker. Moreover, I aim to break the geometric brick of utilitarian design works, breaking formalities in the process. I actively seek asperity, irregularity, and imperfections within art, craft, and design, inspired in part by Wabi Sabi, the ancient Japanese tradition of slow life. In my research, I use a series of methods to explore a way of challenging perfection, machine manufacturing, and, ultimately, enjoying the moments of engagement with the materials. Through these tactics, the objective is to build an emotional connection between self and nature and use this design practice to come closer to myself. I experience the physical pleasures in sound, feeling, and movement, and enjoy seeing the irregularities of natural forms that correspond with the human body. The living form takes on its own breath, gaining freedom from the material substances.
Keywords:
Poetic Design, Aesthetics, Material Practice, Furniture Design, Oriental Design, Xiuxing

abstract: Xiuxing

abstract: Poetic design

abstract: Material practice

abstract: Oriental design


title: Healing Through Making

contributor: Zahra, Syeda Maleeka (Syeda Maleeka Zahra) (author)

format:
69 p.
electronic

subject:
Design
Phenomenalism
Healing
Self-care, Health

abstract:
My research project is a personal journey of discovery that aims to explore how communication and design can open the doors for healing and learning far beyond conventional ways. Through this intentional, often circular thinking and specific exploratory projects that make up the research, I have attempted to understand how material practice can help mitigate the effects of grief to assist in the ideas of self-care and healing. It has provided a holistic view of healing and care that recenters culture and identity integral to self-care and well-being.
Lauren Vaughan states caring for unknown others is so challenging because the farther we move from the familiar, the less control we have and the more risk of failure is. Often, we find ourselves becoming lost, unknown of what it may feel like to be in touch with ourselves while we care for others in the community. There’s an under-appreciation for understanding ourselves and that reflective element that I believe is critical to being a designer who can help, listen or even create or formulate work with stakeholders in all fields.
The research uses an experiential (phenomenological) approach which allows contemplation on the experience of practice to create a conceptual work for mitigating grief through material practice. The material practice finds meaning and value in the cultural capital.
I use auto-ethnography because it requires the researcher or designer first to question themselves and their place in the world. Schouwengerg and Kaethler, authors of the auto-ethnographic turn in design, contrast with historical processes in ethnography and design that look outward first. This approach, however, closely tethers research with creative personal expression. They state, “forging deeply intimate objects that research and communicate personal sentiments, traumas, fears, obsessions, hopes, fascinations, passions, and more.”
As we recuperate from the pandemic, it is essential to share and have conversations about how to continue engaging with the self and others.
I write this thesis to serve as both a guide and an invitation for my fellow design researchers - an invitation to dedicate ourselves to facing the realities of life with care, explore how best to heal and commit to ourselves as a community by using creative healing centred design techniques to move forward.

abstract: Autoethnography

abstract: Phenomenological approach

abstract: Care

abstract: Bilingualism

abstract: Material practice

abstract: Embodied practice

abstract: Self-inquiry

abstract: Practice based


title: Material Language: An Approach to Acquire Literacy of the Inarticulable

contributor: Schmitt, Chiara (Chiara Schmitt) (author)

contributor: Doyle, Keith (Keith Doyle) (thesis advisor)

format:
98 p.
electronic

subject:
Language and communication
Industrial design
Materiality
Literacy

abstract: This thesis frames analogies of language acquisition as a lens to examine materiality and explore how to make and find meaning with and through material. By means to conceptualize a so-called ‘material language,’ following a practice-led and place-based methodology, this work showcases two main case studies that investigate how we can become active agents in our relationship with the material world.

abstract: Material

abstract: Language

abstract: Literature

abstract: Poetry

abstract: Agency

abstract: Empathy

abstract: Place


title: A New Resourcefulness

format:
104 p.
electronic

subject:
Circular economy
Sustainability
Sustainable design
Design

abstract:
This thesis reflects on our relationships to the materials and objects that we are surrounded with, the agency they carry, as well as the responsibility we have to the places and communities we inhabit. This context makes way for a narrative on localization, circularity, and resiliency. A New Resourcefulness offers auto-ethnography woven throughout theory and design practice, as experienced in British Columbia, Canada.

Includes the essay: Ecological Restoration through Material Practice: Invasive Species as Resource, by Christa Clay and Chiara Schmitt (pp. 88 - 98).

abstract: Interdisciplinary design

abstract: Material

abstract: Place

abstract: Responsibility

abstract: Redirective practices

abstract: Localization

abstract: Community

abstract: Circularity


contributor: Wilburn, Lacey Jane (Lacey Jane Wilburn) (author)

contributor: Cartiere, Cameron (Cameron Cartiere) (thesis advisor)

format:
56 p.
electronic

subject:
Painting
Interior architecture
Dwellings
Portraits
Figurative painting

abstract: "Shelter in Paint: a portrait of an empty house" is an investigation into private space and private thought through the visual language of representational painting. Structured as though moving through the rooms of the house, this paper discusses different thematics of domestic space in response to a painting created throughout the course of this degree. It considers the entrance for the concept of interiority, the foundation as the history of interior art, vacant corners as spaces for daydreaming, domestic objects as portraits of the inhabitant, the neighbourhood in relation to public space, the kitchen as the domestic core, the bedroom for intimacy, and the attic for secrets and privacy. These parallels between psychological space and physical space attempt to answer research questions related to the emotional power of interior space, the rift between public and private life, and the ability of interior space to reveal to the inhabitant.

abstract: Daydreaming

abstract: Interiority

abstract: Domestic

abstract: Homes

abstract: Portraiture

abstract: Private space

abstract: Psychological space

abstract: Pandemic


title: Substantive Consumption: Exploring Relational Connections to Digital Musical Entanglements

contributor: Badke, Craig (Craig Badke) (thesis advisor)

format:
43 p.
electronic

subject: Music

subject: Streaming technology (Telecommunications)

subject: Field recordings

abstract: This body of work sets out to explore ways to enact relational and substantive notions of care towards the system of digital music consumption. The things we actively care for in the world are predominantly what shapes the nature of our existence within it. But when parts of the things we love the most have explicitly harmful implications on a multitude of scales, it becomes both more difficult and more important than ever to care for the entirety of something, rather than just the parts that are familiar and personally meaningful. In order to consider the full extents of music as a complex system rather than just as a thing we love, we can explore the extents of its assemblage as an entanglement of human characteristics that have become both intentionally and unintentionally embedded within it. As the world becomes more digitized, our daily interactions become more predominately cloud-based and algorithmically mediated. Our consumption of music is no exception. Within digital networks the scale of human and environmental entanglement can often feel insurmountable and ineffable, while at the same time remaining largely abstracted and hidden from our every day experience. This research will seek to quantify and begin to understand the extents of these entanglements. Music is more conveniently accessed and consumed than ever, but what have we sacrificed to attain this level of convenience, and what are some of the consequences of doing so? There is a growing need to confront the consequences of the modern methods to which it is consumed. Through primarily critical, exploratory, and reflective design methods, this work will try to re-frame some of our notions of the digital world. This re-framing will be done in an attempt to gain a greater sense of literacy, and relationality to digital infrastructure, in a hope to prepare ourselves for a world that is only growing more digitally focused.

abstract: Entanglements

abstract: Care

abstract: Digital consumption

abstract: Critical engagement


title: MILES TO MIND: Proposing an augmented reality based running application for individuals prescribed running to manage symptoms of mild-moderate depression

contributor: Frid-Jimenez, Amber (Amber Frid-Jimenez) (thesis advisor)

format:
30 p.
electronic

subject:
Augmented reality
Application software
Depression
Running

abstract:
This thesis proposes an Augmented reality (AR) application designed to assist people experiencing mild-moderate Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). I am building on an existing solution space of distance running which has been shown to be an effective tool of managing symptoms of MDD based on multiple recent studies in the field of neuroscience and exercise science. These studies have prompted doctors to prescribe exercise treatment plans to mitigate symptoms. However, MDD often makes it difficult for people to continue these routines due to symptoms of fatigue associated with MDD. My proposed application design aims to address the challenging obstacles that people face after they begin their exercise treatment plans, specifically running.
During my recovery from moderate MDD, I understood that running just for the sake of running was another barrier that I had to overcome. Based on some methods I used to keep myself continue a run like chasing an imaginary animal or setting a small mental objective of 10–20 m, I realized that the activity of running could be made more engaging and be based on a purpose other than covering a certain distance, with the help of mixed reality mediums such as Augmented Reality (AR). This thesis lies within a speculative framework assuming by the end of the decade, mixed reality interaction is simplified enough for eyewear without requiring bulky headsets.
Through the proposition of an Augmented Reality (AR) based running application, I explore the idea of using AR to (1) use running as a play centered activity to chase using visual cues, instead of a competitive activity to cover a certain amount of distance, and (2) explore the role of companionship during the run in the form of a virtual companion.
The proposed model could be described as an overlap between an AR based game called Pokémon GO and existing running services like Strava.

abstract: Major depressive disorder


title: Recognizing the Alien: Science Fiction Storyworlds and the Reader’s Reality

contributor: Mount Royal University Faculty of Arts, English and Languages (Degree granting institution)

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Audrey Jamieson.  All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
World building
Alien
Science fiction
Reality
Storyworld
Imaginary places in literature
Creation (Literary, artistic, etc.)

abstract:
This project is a critical study of the science fiction storyworld as the platform for the genre to contribute meaningfully to the literary canon. In the process of world-building, the author weaves a fabric of world elements in the categories of nominal, natural, cultural, and ontological. Through the crafting of an alien, secondary world, the author creates binary parallels between the reader’s reality and the fictional world. The reader is encouraged to engage with the text by filling the gap between worlds, and thus critically think about their own status quo. The secondary world is formed using departures from the current reality and these departures juxtapose the unfamiliar elements with the familiarities that go unchecked because of their ubiquitous nature. The science fiction storyworld disembodies social issues from their human categories and allows the reader to reconsider perspectives while distanced from the self.

Received Honourable Mention for the 2021 Mount Royal University Library Awards for Research Excellence in the Senior Individual Award Category.


title: Understanding Mental Health, Burnout, and Substance Abuse among Legal Professionals in Canada

contributor: Mount Royal University Faculty of Arts Economics, Justice and Policy Studies (Degree granting institution)

rights:
This work is completed in entirety by Megan C. Rombough. All rights are reserved to the
information provided within this document.

subject:
Mental Health
Burnout
Substance Abuse
Lawyers
Vicarious Trauma

abstract: Mental health, burnout, and substance abuse in the workplace have come into focus yet only certain occupations have been studied regarding these concepts. The legal profession in Canada lacks behind in combating mental health, burnout, and substance abuse issues and requires further attention to help create a healthier and happier profession. This research delved into these topics to get a better understanding of its prevalence, as well as to discover what is currently being done to address it, and what needs to be done to address it better in the future. There is little research about these topics and lawyers in the Canadian context. This project aimed to contribute to the literature. Using primary and secondary data collection methods, this research sought answers using thematic and exploratory analysis, and integrative literature review methods. The literature and survey data show that lawyers experience an increase in mental health, burnout, and substance abuse issues yet little is being done about it to aid in preventing or educating lawyers about prevention or intervention strategies. Participants in the study reported unique and meaningful answers about how to improve the current standards by the Law Society in their respective province in Canada, as well as the current stressors that they are experiencing which can be minimized. This research is integral to a healthier and happier future for legal professionals in Canada and it is important to acknowledge the importance of addressing these issues through prevention and education initiatives before they become detrimental to the lawyers, the profession, and their clients.


title: Subjugated innocence: Domestic child sexual exploitation in Canada

contributor: Mount Royal University Department of Economics, Justice and Policy Studies (Degree granting institution)

format:
178 pages
electronic

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Kaila C. Ladd. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
Child sexual exploitation
Canada
International conventions
PSECA
Risk factors
Intervention
Social service agencies

abstract: In this comprehensive literature review, the author examines child sexual exploitation from a Canadian perspective. The focus was on understanding what Canada’s definition of human trafficking is, how Canada views the exploitation aspect and how that has translated into Canadian legislation. Victims of domestic child exploitation are almost always girls between the ages of 13-17 and most commonly Caucasian. This profile could be skewed by the clandestine nature of this crime and that what is known about victims is based only on police-reported data. Risk factors highlight that those who are most vulnerable are girls, Indigenous, runaway or throwaway youth and LGBTQ+. This literature review highlighted that there is a lack of understanding of how male youth, as well as Indigenous youth, are trafficked. It also highlighted that more is needed to be learned about the various forms of child sexual exploitation. The second half of this literature review was investigative, in that it aimed to learn more about prevention and intervention programming, including how they work and apply knowledge to create effective and holistic programming. It then concludes with overviews of some noteworthy programs that assist Alberta victims specifically.


title: The Interpretation and Evolution of Section 1 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms

contributor: Mount Royal University Economics, Justice and Policy Studies (Degree granting institution)

rights: This work is completed in its entirety by Sianna E. Beaupre. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject: Oakes test

subject: Section 1 (Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms)

subject: Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms

subject: Constitutional Law

subject: Criminal Justice

abstract: The enactment of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms in 1982 brought rights and freedoms to all Canadians. All sections of the Charter are of great importance, however, one could argue that section 1 is the most important to understand. This is because section 1 not only guarantees the rights and freedoms within the Charter but also grants Courts the ability to place limits on those same rights and freedoms. Through analysis of case law from the Supreme Court of Canada, this research paper analyzes the wording of section 1, the influential case that came before R. v. Oakes [1986], the case that changed the interpretation and application of section 1 (R. v. Oakes), the cornerstone test that came out of it, the pivotal cases that came after that made adjustments to the Oakes test, criticisms, and two case studies.


title: "No Justice, No Peace": Institutional Culture of Policing & Effects on Minority Groups in Canada

contributor: Mount Royal University Faculty of Arts, Department of Economics, Justice and Policy Studies (Degree granting institution)

rights:
This work is completed in entirety by Ambreena Ladhani. All rights are reserved to the
information provided within this document.

subject:
Canadian policing
Policing culture
Criminal justice
Systemic racism
Controversial policing practices

abstract: The institutional culture of policing and the use of controversial policing practices has largely contributed to the divide that exists between minority populations and the police in Canada. Surveys and data measuring the public’s perception of policing in Canada have demonstrated that there is a gap between minority populations and their confidence in the abilities of the policing agencies which serve and protect them. This research paper identifies how the institutional culture of policing and the continued use of controversial policing practices contributes to the tension that exists between these two groups. Specifically, it examines three controversial policing practices: predictive policing, street-checks and starlight tours and discusses how these practices further the mistrust and lack of faith that minority groups experience in interacting with Canadian policing institutions. Using a descriptive analysis of purposively selected literature, the results of this research suggest that the institutional culture of policing continues to perpetuate the use of these controversial policing practices through a unified, in-group solidarity mentality. These practices shape public perceptions of the police and contribute to the divide between minority populations and the police. Research results suggest that in order to improve the relationship between the public and the police, changes must be made internally at an institutional level. This includes integrating social services into law enforcement, reevaluating the use of controversial policing practices and addressing the “blue code of silence” that exists within policing agencies.


title: Mr. Big Police Investigations: The Interrogation Trilogy and Charter Implications

rights: This work is completed in its entirety by Janaya Dunn. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
Interrogation trilogy
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Mr. Big operations
Undercover interrogation techniques

abstract: Mr. Big operations are a complex undercover investigative technique used to collect evidence on a suspect with limited evidence to press charges. The particular circumstances and very nature of a Mr. Big operation has led to considerable criticism regarding the difficulty of law enforcement being able to balance their independence and oversight concerning the rights of the accused. Furthermore, significant officer discretion is required. Various investigative strategies that are used in Mr. Big operations, from threatening the suspect, false presentations of evidence, untrue promises and enticements, alongside the complete alteration of reality, have demonstrated the possibility of severe police misconduct. These tactics undeniably raise concerns pertaining to the reliability of the evidence such as, if the confession was coerced, involuntary, or if the impact of these aggressive or enticing tactics could lead the suspect to confess falsely. Such techniques engage the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, section 7 and section 11(d), based on the fundamental principles of justice; these afforded legal rights are engaged to help protect the accused from an unreasonable state intrusion. The unique engagement of these rights and Mr. Big Operations has been addressed in the landmark case of R v Hart [2014], with a new common-law rule for addressing the reliability and protections of the accused. However, there is still a prominent lack of oversight and guidance in which there is vast opportunity for harmful police misconduct, increasing the potential for wrongful convictions and miscarriages of justice


title: An Exploration of the Relationship Between Economic Factors, Economic Recessions, and Spousal Violence

rights:
Except where noted, this work is completed in entirety by Tayla S. Basawa. All rights are reserved to the
information provided within this document.

subject:
Spousal violence
Recession
Unemployment rates
COVID-19
Low income

abstract: The focus of the study is centred on the relationship between economic recessions, economic factors such as unemployment rates, low income, and the COVID-19 pandemic, and spousal violence. The research is focused on scholarship and statistics within a Canadian context, as well as specific to Calgary and Alberta where appropriate. The study covers the economic recessions and related statistics on low income and unemployment rates in Canada from 2008 to 2020 in an attempt to illustrate a connection with spousal violence. The statistics on spousal violence cover the period from 2009 to 2014, given these are the most recently available publicly accessible statistics from the General Social Survey and the Uniform Crime Report through Statistics Canada. Exploring economic factors such as low income and unemployment is important because it can lead to a better understanding of how these factors intersect and contribute to and/or perpetuate spousal violence. It is also significant because exploring economic recessions can contribute to a more in-depth understanding of how the economy impacts spousal violence and the corresponding statistics on spousal violence. The methods utilized to research the topic include an integrative literature review, a descriptive research design, and a meta-analysis to collate, extract, and synthesize the literature and statistics. Findings include increased unemployment rates during periods of economic recessions and increased spousal violence-related calls to police agencies and other services during such periods. Lastly, women are the victims of spousal violence and their victimization is exacerbated by low income, their male partner’s unemployment, and periods of economic recession.


title: Indispensable Sentencing Tool or Inconsistent Sentencing Technique?: Gladue Pre-Sentence Reports in Canada

contributor: Mount Royal University Faculty of Arts (Degree granting institution)

rights:
This work is completed in entirety by Tisa M. Keller. All rights are reserved to the
information provided within this document.
author

subject:
Gladue reports
Aboriginal offenders
Over-incarceration of indigenous people
Supreme Court
Canada

abstract: Two decades have passed since section 718.2(e) of the Criminal Code of Canada was enacted and subsequently interpreted by the Supreme Court of Canada in the landmark case R v. Gladue (1999, 1 SCR 688). This section requires judges to consider the unique systemic and background factors of an Aboriginal offender during the sentencing process to establish a proportionate sentence, thereby emphasizing restorative justice. Since the Supreme Court’s judgement in Gladue, a special form of pre-sentence report, known as a Gladue Report, has emerged to provide a tailored, comprehensive assessment of an Indigenous offender’s circumstances to assist sentencing judges in complying with their statutory obligations. Reviewing Gladue and subsequent jurisprudence, as well as numerous reports, the author argues that Gladue Reports are not being administered consistently across Canada, with many Aboriginal offenders not receiving the proper consideration into their unique circumstances, known as Gladue factors. This constitutes a pervasive systemic problem of unequal access to justice. Analyzing the current use of traditional pre-sentence reports and the various models to produce and deliver Gladue Reports across jurisdictions, this thesis maintains that Parliament of Canada should consider amending the Criminal Code and develop a national framework for Gladue Reports to be made available for all Indigenous offenders.


title: An Investigation Into The Development, Application, And Relevance Of The Infanticide Legislation in Canadian Law

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Hannah Luttman. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
Infanticide
Criminal code
Criminal law
Canadian law
Criminal code s. 233

abstract: The application and development of infanticide legislation in the Canadian justice system is a controversial topic among the legal community. Section 233 of the Criminal Code (1985) contains the infanticide provision in Canadian statute law. Section 233 Infanticide can be used both as a stand-alone charge, and as a partial defence in cases where murder is charged. This thesis provides a brief historical overview of the infanticide provision’s legislative development. Since its enactment in 1948, the provision has undergone some revisions but has received little commentary from the courts. There is considerable confusion in the legal community surrounding some phrases in the provision and their legal meaning. Some argue the relevance of the provision in the context of modern Canadian society. In addition, this thesis discusses the various legal issues that have arisen from its application as well as the changes that have been made to the legislation as a result of prominent cases.


title: A New Era for Police Reforms: How Canadian Police Agencies Have Approached to Defunding the Police after the Death of George Floyd

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Kim Kong Lee. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
Defunding the police
Police reforms
Black lives matter
Divestment
Canadian policing

abstract: Soon after George Floyd was brutally killed in the United States, Black Lives Matter and its sub-movement defunding the police was quickly adopted by Canada. As defunding the police is a relatively new concept in Canada, and there are many controversies around the meaning of defunding the police, the current research seeks to gain a deeper understanding of the movement in an exploratory manner with the intention to provide the public with some valuable insights about the movement. In particular, the current research asks how Canadian police agencies have approached defunding the police after the death of George Floyd. Based on Williams and Eichenthal (2020), the present research operationalized the three most common approaches used to defund the police. Conducting a secondary analysis of government archives and media publications, Canadian police agencies’ policies and actions of defunding the police were classified into the three operationalized approaches for further analysis. Three agencies were identified to have approached defunding the police in Canada. Throughout the analysis, the current research was able to identify the weaknesses of the actions taken to defund the police in Canada and the potential problems of movement. Proceeding to the future, policymakers and the people must pay close attention to these potential problems in order to achieve the complete success of defunding the police.


title: Understanding the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms from a Student’s Perspective: The Role of Social Media on Charter Awareness

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Taya E. Onyschtschuk. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Constitutional literacy
Legal literacy
Social media

abstract: Awareness of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, or constitutional literacy in Canada, has gained very little attention since its establishment in 1982, particularly with university-aged Canadians. Because of the important role that the Charter plays in individuals’ lives, it is crucial every Canadian understands their rights and freedoms enshrined in law, as well as the limitations of those rights and freedoms. This study attempted to gauge constitutional literacy and social media use among Mount Royal University students, specifically on ss. 1, 2, and 7 of the Charter because of the overarching relevance and applicability of these sections to all Canadians. Social media was queried to ask students if it negatively influences students’ knowledge of their Charter rights, freedoms, and limitations. The study was exploratory and incorporated a mixed methods approach to understanding the data. The conclusions from a literature review were combined with the survey data. Literature demonstrates that the public is disproportionally unaware of their rights and freedoms, while the survey results revealed that university students have either an above-average knowledge of the Charter or a below-average knowledge of the Charter. Lastly, there was no correlation between social media use and respondents’ Charter knowledge.


title: Rethinking Indigenous policing on reservation lands in Canada: Reflections from Australia and the United States

contributor: Mount Royal Uiversity Economics, Justice, and Policy Studies (Degree granting institution)

rights:
This work is completed in its entirety by Shayna Westlund. All rights are reserved to the
information provided within this document.

subject:
Indigenous policing
First Nations policing program
Policing Indigenous communities

abstract: The historical relationship between the Indigenous Peoples of Canada and the federal government is strained as they have been subjected to continuous and ongoing injustices. To address various issues associated with Indigenous Peoples and the justice system, First Nations Policing Programs were introduced. Extensive research has been conducted evaluating Canada's Indigenous policing practices; however, there are gaps in the literature pertaining to best practices and what can be improved. This research aims to highlight the strengths and shortcomings of Canada's FNPP and Indigenous policing practices while reflecting on the Indigenous policing practices observed in Australia and the United States in an effort to determine the best and actionable practices that can be implemented in Canada. Through a descriptive analysis of purposively selected literature, this research suggests that Indigenous policing in Canada can be enhanced by redefining its services, implementing community patrols similar to what is employed in Australian Indigenous communities, and securing adequate funding. Additionally, further research evaluating Indigenous policing in Australia and the United States is necessary.


title: An Exploration of How Rape Myth Acceptance Affects Sexual Assault Trials in Canada

rights: This thesis was completed by Sheridan A. Barr. All rights reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
Sexual assault
Rape
Rape myths
Rape myth acceptance
Stereotypes
Sexual assault laws
Court misconceptions

abstract: Rape myth acceptance continues to make its way into our criminal justice system. It is expressed in sexual assault trials during cross-examinations of complainants and in a judge or jury’s decision-making processes. Prejudices and biases about sexual assault and its victims infiltrates societal views about the offence and people involved; thus, affecting reporting and conviction rates. This project illustrates how rape myths are used and accepted by justice professionals during trials and how it affects sexual assault case outcomes. This is showed with landmark cases where myths were the backbone of the decision-making process in deciding the offender’s guilt for the offence. Using an exploratory and descriptive analysis of the selected literature and focusing on specific cases, this project suggests that a negative cycle of rape myth acceptance is still persuasive and stems from court misconceptions into society and vice versa. While there are other reasons why low-reporting and low-conviction rates may occur, the role that rape myth acceptance plays within the court's system has a significant impact on how sexual assault cases are dealt with and especially on how they are damaging to current and future victims. While this project’s primary focus is on an institutional level (the court system), it also highlights the importance of resolving this issue on a societal level as it affects everyone. Due to the negative effects of rape myth acceptance, this project also makes recommendations about how to better educate our society as well as ensure justice professionals are continuously educated and consciences about sexual assault, its victims, and its laws.


title: Tangible Change or Deaf Ears?: An Exploration of Canadian Justice and Juris Doctorate Programs in Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Thomas S.M. Pugsley. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject: Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada

subject: Calls to action

subject: Canadian academia

subject: Indigenization of curricula

subject: Police training

subject: Law - study and teaching

abstract: Since the release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) Calls to Action in 2015, there has not been any research pertaining to their uptake in law schools and justice programs across Canada. This study involved a literature review and an environmental scan of 17 law schools and 25 justice-related programs across Canada and examined their respective curriculums to determine whether and how they have shown consideration for the TRC’s 28th and 63rd Calls to Action. It was posited that, if lawyers and law enforcement workers are not being educated on Indigenous issues while they are in school then they will be more prone to negative interactions with Indigenous clients and individuals. Ultimately, this could contribute to the significant overrepresentation of Indigenous persons in custody in the Canadian justice system. The findings indicated that there is indeed a lack of consideration for the Calls to Action - more so for justice programs than law schools but apparent in both nonetheless. Further research will be required to explore this issue in depth, including what barriers prevent programs and schools from instituting the Calls to Action, and to ensure that academic institutions are contributing to reconciliation efforts and making tangible steps towards change.


title: A Jurisprudential Analysis of the Canadian Defence of Voluntary Intoxication

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Makenna M. L. Lutz. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document

subject:
Voluntary intoxication
Intoxication defence
Automatism
Criminal code s. 33.1

abstract: The jurisprudence following the defence of voluntary intoxication has remained a controversial topic within the legal system. This thesis evaluates the prominent landmark cases that have shaped the present voluntary intoxication defence and s. 33.1 of the Criminal Code. This Criminal Code section bars the use of the intoxication defence while under extreme intoxication in cases involving harm towards the bodily integrity of another. Section 33.1 has yet to be revisited in the past 20 years. Included in this thesis is the analysis of each precedented case and the majority and dissenting decisions presented by the Supreme Court of Canada. Drawing on case law from both the Ontario Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court of Canada, this thesis is a semi-comprehensive historical timeline of the jurisprudence surrounding the defence. While there are compelling arguments for both the constitutionality and unconstitutionality of s. 33.1, the Supreme Court of Canada has yet to conclude on the long-standing legislation. The Supreme Court will decide on the controversial topic in the upcoming months in an amalgamated hearing of R v Sullivan [2020] and in the case of Thomas Chan. This thesis includes a discussion of possible Supreme Court outcomes for the defence and Criminal Code s. 33.1.


title: The Unconstitutionality of Mandatory Minimum Sentences for Indigenous Offenders

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Amanda L. Sherry. All rights are reserved to the information provided within the document.

subject:
Mandatory minimum sentences
Criminal code s. 718.2(e)
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Cruel and unusual punishment

abstract: This research was done regarding how mandatory minimum sentences can be considered "cruel and unusual punishment" under section 12 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms for Indigenous offenders. The overarching argument being the intended use of s.718.2(e) of the Canadian Criminal Code when it was established to help ameliorate the damage caused to Canadian Indigenous communities and the creation of their intergenerational trauma due to colonialism, residential schools and more. This research was conducted through a systematic review of primary and secondary sources including government websites, Indigenous run historical websites, Canadian Supreme Court cases, Provincial Court cases and more.


title: Exploring the Prospect of Decriminalizing Illicit Drugs in Canada

rights: This work is completed in its entirety by Shanpreet S. Khaira. All rights reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
Decriminalization
Harm reduction
War on drugs
Substance use
Illicit drugs

abstract: In Canada, individuals with substance use issues continue to suffer devastating consequences and despite the implementation of a variety of evidence-based strategies, more efforts need to be made to address the problems surrounding substance use—as illustrated by the ongoing opioid epidemic. Several experts, professionals and scholars have increased their efforts advocating for a revision of current drug laws which has provided an opportunity to discuss the possibility of decriminalizing illicit substances for personal use. This paper utilizes secondary data applying a thematic analysis to conduct a narrative literature review regarding whether or not the Canadian government should support the decriminalization of illicit drugs. In an attempt to answer this question, it is important to acknowledge the adverse effects of the war on drugs, the legitimate solutions designed to reduce harm and recent initiatives that progress the harm reduction paradigm. The trends indicate an increasing acceptance towards adopting harm reduction policies. However, the lack of structural change/over-emphasis of medical aspects obstructs the effectiveness of harm reduction. Thus, policymakers should review current drug laws and seriously consider the possibility of decriminalizing illicit drugs for personal use and simple possession


title: The Development of the Higher Education Relationship Marketing Model

contributor:
Ross, Stephanie (author)
Finch, David (thesis advisor)
(Degree granting institution)

subject:
Higher education
Relationship marketing
Relationship marketing model
Relational value
Value creation

abstract: Over the past several decades, higher education in Canada has expanded dramatically. Postsecondary institutions (PSIs) have struggled to both respond to this competitive environment, while simultaneously generating value for its core stakeholders – students – which align with its mission and vision. Comprehending the underlying relational dynamics between a student and their PSI will aid in improving retention rates, satisfaction levels, shared values, advocacy, loyalty, and efficiency overall. The current project will investigate what variables contribute to the creation of relational value between students and a PSI. Relationship marketing (RM) is the theoretical foundation of this study. RM is the principle of establishing, maintaining, and enhancing mutually successful relationships, where value is created for all parties. Previous research was adapted for application in a higher education context to explore the relationship between PSIs and students. Past research conducted has focused on a diverse range of relationships and industries using RM. Spectator affiliations to sports teams, students’ affiliation with varsity sports, and student affiliation with education are some examples of RM studies. Herein, we will explore the systematic relationship between a student and a PSI and how this relationship generates mutual value. To do so, we conducted a phenomenological study. This encompassed interviewing a minimum of 12 experts in higher education. The outcome of this study will be a refined higher education relationship marketing model (HERMM) and a suggested quantitative instrument that can be utilized by future researchers.


title: The Socially Acceptable NCRMD Defence

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Catharine Pandila. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
Not criminally responsible
NCRMD
Mental health
Review board

abstract: Not criminally responsible on account of mental disorder (NCRMD) is a necessary but often unknown and underappreciated legal defence, used to divert offenders from the criminal justice stream to the medical stream when suffering from mental health issues that impair understanding for their criminality. NCRMD in various capacities has had a long history in Canadian justice, yet research suggests Canadians remain unaware of how NCRMD works, and why this legal defence is necessary. Lack of understanding surrounding NCRMD has led to misconceptions in the public about this judicial defence, and continued stigmatization towards mental illness. A definition and history of NCMRD is summarized, along with an outline of NCRMD legislation in Canada, literature examining criminological theories, and an exploration of society’s understanding of justice. Research also explored the benefits and limitations of the NCRMD system based on perceptions expressed through media.


title: PODCASTS & PUNISHMENT: TRUE CRIME PODCASTS AND OPINIONS ON THE DEATH PENALTY IN CANADA

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Sophie R. R. Piché. All rights are reserved to the information provided within the document.

subject:
True crime
True crime podcasts
Death penalty
Capital punishment

abstract: True crime podcasts are very popular in Canada and across the world. Despite this, little research has been done on the genre and what its impact may be on Canadian listeners. Using data from a survey on 455 true crime podcast consumers in Canada, this study identifies common listener characteristics and participant support for the reinstatement of the death penalty. Relationships between high podcast consumption, participation in crime and justice activism, and support for the death penalty are explored, and opportunities for future research are discussed.


title: The Effects of Video Game Sales on Violent Crime Rates in Canada

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Tommy Nguyen. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
Video games
Violence
Aggression
Violent behavior

abstract: Video games are a relatively new phenomenon, and as such there has been a plethora of research done to help understand the effects of video games. When it comes to the influence of video games on violent crime, there has been much research on the topic but with little consensus. Additionally, the existing literature cannot provide any conclusive evidence, with some stating that video games influence violent behavior and others stating the opposite. This paper attempts to contribute to the research by trying to answer the question of whether an increase in video game sales can influence increases in violent behavior. A quantitative approach was used, analyzing popular video game sales as well as violent crime rates in Canada to find a relationship between the two variables. It was found that increases in video game sales have led to increases in violent crime rates. This can help influence policy makers on making laws and policies that affect video games in the future, such as stricter regulations for purchasing violent video games.


title: The Limitation of Misinformation Under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms

contributor: Mount Royal University Economics, Justice, and Policy Studies (Degree granting institution)

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Kristopher J. Steffler.  All rights are reserved to the information provided within this docuent.

subject:
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Misinformation
Freedom
Expression

abstract: The purpose of this thesis to explore what limitations may exist for s.2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter), the section concerning freedom of expression. Specifically, this thesis is interested in how the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) has interpreted this section regarding the dissemination of misinformation. To this end, this thesis examined SCC decisions post-1982 to understand the Justices’ logic when navigating issues of false news. This thesis followed a qualitative, hermeneutic case analysis under the psychological theoretical basis of the “dual-process” theory to best understand a person’s motivation when disseminating misinformation. Doing this, this thesis collected a couple of SCC cases which fulfilled the requirements as laid out in the methodology chapter. The results indicate that SCC is unwilling to use the powers of government to silence statements of misinformation due to the potential chilling effect for a minority population’s freedom of expression. On the other hand, specific wording in the Charter exempts private actors from being bound to the s.2(b), therefore leaving open the possibility of civil lawsuits. This article is scholarly significant as it informs the public discussion regarding private platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat to moderate speech on their platforms. Furthermore, this distinction between civil and criminal action has implications for the range of sanctions available for any potential offender.


title: Chief Justice Brian Dickson's Influence in Interpreting the Charter

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Ajay Chattha. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
Brian Dickson
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Supreme Court of Canada
Hunter v. Southam
R v. Oakes

abstract: Brian Dickson was the first chief justice during the enactment of The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The Charter is enshrined in the Canadian constitution and became the supreme law of Canada when enacted with the purpose being to protect the rights and freedoms it established for Canadians. Dickson’s exceptional impact on a variety of cases led him to being one of the most revered figures in Canadian legal history. His numerous landmark decisions are accentuated by his abounding number of Supreme Court decisions that have affirmed many aspects of the Charter. This thesis will attempt to highlight his many decisions and the sections of the Charter they recognized. This will be done by analyzing Dickson’s reasoning through a qualitative study. A mixed method research design will be paired with a mixture of purposive and convenience sampling to acquire cases with the greatest thematic value. Then, a thematic analysis will be conducted to highlight Dickson’s interpretation of the case and the language of the Charter. The five cases chosen for this thesis will be the s.8 case of Hunter et.al v. Southam Inc. (1984), a s.2 freedom of religion case in R. v. Big M Drug Mart Ltd (1985), a s.1 and s.11(d) case of R. v. Oakes (1986), a s.2(b) freedom of expression case in Irwin Toy Ltd. v. Quebec (Attorney General) (1989) and a s.15 case in Andrews v. Law Society of British Columbia (1989). The chosen cases are described as being the first major decisions for their respective Charter sections and will help illustrate the important effect Dickson had in setting up the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms for its sustained and ever-lasting success.


title: Restorative discipline and the school-to-prison pipeline

contributor: Mount Royal Economics, Justice and Policy Studies (Degree granting institution)

format:
1 online resource (38 pages)
electronic

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Jenna Levay. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
School-to-prison pipeline
School-to-prison pipeline--Canada
School discipline
Restorative justice in schools
Restorative discipline
Criminal justice

abstract:
Unless you have children, are a teacher or school administrator, or feel you were mistreated by
the education system during your school-aged years, you may not think much about the
disciplinary actions used within our school systems. However, from a societal perspective, it’s
important to understand that a common recurring theme within educational disciplinary action is
the usage, and over usage of suspension and expulsion as punishment (Monahan et al., 2014).
Studies have shown that the misuse of suspension and expulsion can and does lead children
toward a life of criminalization and institutionalisation (Monahan et al., 2014). This phenomenon
is known as the school-to-prison pipeline (Monahan et al., 2014), and it fundamentally influences
crime rates in Canada. Even the phrase ‘school-to-prison pipeline’ sounds inherently damaging
to our children for obvious reasons, but the main reason society should care about this
phenomenon is because it is forcefully filtering today’s young people into the criminal justice
system. There are other options. Introduced through the concept of Restorative Justice, an idea
called Restorative Discipline was conceived (Hass-Wisecup & Saxon, 2018).
Restorative Discipline, when implemented with intention, collaboration, and consistency,
vastly reduces the school-to-prison pipeline by allowing children to make mistakes, learn from
their mistakes, understand the concept of reparation, and be empowered to make amends
(Hass-Wisecup & Saxon, 2018). This study highlights the significant gap in restorative justice
and restorative discipline literature, research, and practices within Canada. This study will
analyze various school Codes of Conduct from across Canada, delve deeper into the meaning
and understanding of the school-to-prison pipeline, and explain restorative discipline practices in
action. Further, this study offers five recommendations that can be easily implemented on a
day-to-day basis, for any school system and school personnel who may want to make a change.


title: Expression of MyoD and M-Cadherin in C2C12 cells:: Differentiation induced by cell-to-cell contact vs reduction in growth factor

type: StillImage thesis

contributor: Laura Atkinson, Laura Atkinson (thesis advisor)

contributor: Mount Royal University Faculty of Science and Technology (Degree granting institution)

rights: This work is completed in entirety by E. Yap, Bridgitte Garcia, Carita Chan, Emily Yap, Jessy Celine Santos, Muhammad Mohsin and Naomi Oviahon, with all rights reserved.

subject:
C2C12
Myogenesis
MyoD
m-Cadherin
Cellular differentiation

abstract: C2C12 murine cells differentiate through the fusion of myoblasts to form multinucleated myotubes as a cell model used to study myogenesis in vitro. Differentiation can be induced through serum starvation, which is achieved with adult serum that has reduced growth factors (GF), or cell-to-cell contact which induces growth arrest. Fetal Bovine Serum (FBS) is commonly used as a source of GF for cell proliferation, whilst Horse Serum (HS) lacks GF, allowing for induction of cell differentiation. Common methodologies in literature utilized 2% HS as differentiation media (DM) while ATCC recommends 10% HS as DM; DM switch also varied at 80% or 100% cell confluency. However, effects of such variations have yet to be studied. Hence, we aim to study the effects of C2C12 cell differentiation due to cell-to-cell contact versus GF reduction using MyoD and m-Cadherin as biomarkers. MyoD, a master regulator of muscle-specific genes, is activated in the nucleus to initiate myogenesis. m-Cadherin is a transmembrane protein mediating cell fusion prior to myotube formation. Samples were switched to 2% HS at 80% or 100% cell confluency and 10% HS at 100% confluency, compared to control samples maintained in 10% FBS. Localization and relative expression of biomarkers between the condition groups were studied via immunocytochemistry (ICC) and qPCR analysis, respectively, at myoblast stage (MB), days 0, 4, 7, and 11. Varying culture conditions across the literature poses obstacles for data reproducibility and comparability.The outcomes of this study may contribute in establishing a standardized cell culture protocol within the discipline.


title: Does A Recession Affect Millennials’ Career Expectations?

contributor:
Meier, Anja (author)
(Degree granting institution)
Hamilton, Leah (thesis advisor)

subject:
Millennials
Career expectations
University students
Alberta
Undergraduate students
Library award winner

abstract: In recent years, scholars have shown an increased interest in understanding how Millennials’ perceptions of entitlement impact both their work and academic lives (e.g., Ng, Schweitzer, & Lyons, 2010). However, there is minimal research on the impact that a recession has on Millennials as they transition from university to the labour market. The purpose of the current project was to gain a better understanding of the impact that the current recession in Alberta has on new graduates’ career expectations. We used a mixed methods design that incorporated both focus group data and questionnaire results from 62 third- and fourth-year business students in Alberta. Interestingly, participants’ awareness of the recession had no impact on career expectations. Results demonstrated that immediate career expectations were driven by perceptions of entitlement, while future career expectations were affected by gender. Specifically, men had significantly higher future career expectations than women, even after controlling for entitlement and recession awareness. These findings can be used to assist universities in helping new graduates set realistic expectations when entering the workforce during a recession. At the same time, businesses can use the current results to tailor their recruiting techniques to target the specific needs and desires of graduating Millennials.


title: Gender and the Practice of Law in Canada

rights: Except where noted, this work is completed in entirety by Alessandra Giuseppina Sodano. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
Canadian lawyers
Women in law
Legal practice
Female lawyer attrition
Gender discrimination

abstract: One may ask why paralegals are shown to be the only profession in the criminal justice system that has an overrepresentation of women employees, while male legal professionals tend to be identified as attorneys – perhaps it is due to societal ideologies of male dominance. Male dominated industries and occupations, like law practice, have fewer women employees, women have a harder time excelling in their field, and are less likely to attain partnership promotion. Career expansion is difficult on women in the male-dominated field of law. Although women are completing law school at the same rate as men, higher numbers of women are leaving law (attrition) compared to men, losing their talent from the workforce, and contributing to continuing sexist attitudes. This study therefore aims to investigate the reasons why females are less likely to remain working as attorneys compared to males, despite there being approximately equal representation of males and females in law schools. This loss of women is not only important for tackling discrimination, which is an important goal for any industry, but also for reducing the loss of highly trained intelligent professionals in the law firms simply due to their gender, requiring further training of new staff. Furthermore, this research will not only confirm the high attrition of women, but will also inform the law firms on the reasons behind it, allowing counteractive measures to be developed that might increase retention of their female staff.


title: Examining the Outcomes of Sport Specialization for Individual Athletes and the Industry

contributor: Mount Royal University (Degree granting institution)

subject:
Sport specialization
Participation
Consumption
Sport industry
Volleyball

abstract: In North America, sport specialization for young athletes has become a prerequisite for sport achievement, but academics have yet to explore the effects that sport specialization has on athletes’ consumption and participation patterns. Thus, this project explores the following research question: what are the effects of sport specialization on the individual volleyball athlete in terms of: i) patterns of participation in sport (past, present, and future); and ii) consumption patterns in the sport industry? The methodological approach was to interview current and retired volleyball players aged 18 to 30 in Calgary, Alberta. The questions were designed to ask participants how they spend their time and money during and after sport specialization. The findings indicate that early specialization in volleyball directly impacts an athlete’s patterns of participation and consumption in the sport of volleyball and the sport industry broadly. Many participants articulated that due to specialized training they became lost in the identity of a “volleyball player,” and when they ceased participation in the sport they found that they had not been participating for their own intrinsic values but for extrinsic values placed on them by their coaches, parents, teammates, and other invested stakeholders. Participants also indicated that their specialization years developed specialized knowledge in sport, a unique analytical consumption experience that influences present and future sport consumption. The findings are a call to action for the volleyball industry to evaluate the participation and consumption patterns in specialized volleyball training and implement changes to benefit specialized athletes and the industry.


title: The Constitutionality of Mandatory Alcohol Screening in Canada

rights:
This work is completed in entirety by Mateya S. Selders. All rights are reserved to the
information provided within this document.

subject:
Mandatory alcohol screening
Criminal code
Oakes test
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Random breath test

abstract: In 2018, random mandatory alcohol screening became a reality of the Canadian justice system. Before the law had even come into effect, it was being welcomed with open arms by some, and immediately castigated as unconstitutional by others. Compelling arguments for both sides have emerged in the wake of debate. Where Bill C-46 has enacted laws which have adversely affected the rights of drivers, an analysis of the new laws written within the Canadian Criminal Code, warrant an audit of their alignment with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This thesis challenges the constitutionality of section 320.27 (2) of the Canadian Criminal Code against sections 7 and 1 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. In drawing on the public’s perception of the law, an array of precedent provided by the Supreme Court of Canada, and an analysis of both sections 7 and 1 of the Canadian Charter, an argument can be made which corroborates the notion that section 320.27 (2) of the Canadian Criminal Code is unconstitutional.


title: The Mere Presence of a Cell Phone and Academic Ability

contributor: Mount Royal University Department of Psychology (Degree granting institution)

subject:
Mere presence
Cell phones
Academic ability
Achievement
Library award winner

abstract: Prior research has suggested that cell-phone use in the classroom and during learningrelated tasks is detrimental to academic performance. Recently, the mere presence of a cell phone has been found to negatively affect relationships and to impair performance on learning and cognitive tasks. The present study explored whether the presence of a cell phone hinders performance on tests that measure pre-existing academic ability. In total, the study evaluated 45 participants who were enrolled in an introductory psychology course at Mount Royal University or who were members of the general public. Three subtests from the Wide Range Achievement Test (WRAT-4) were completed: spelling, sentence comprehension, and mathematics. During testing, half of the participants had their cell phones present and the other half did not. Statistical analyses revealed that when a cell phone belonging to a participant was merely present, there was no statistically significant difference in the demonstration of pre-existing skills on the sentence comprehension (p = .52), spelling (p = .07), and mathematics subtest (p = .11) compared to when a cell phone was removed. Unexpectedly, a non-significant trend was observed in the opposite direction; that is, the cell-phone-present group outperformed the cell-phone-absent group on all of the subtests.


title: Changes in tendon compliance and muscle energetics of in vivo human skeletal muscle

contributor: University of Calgary Faculty of Graduate Studies (Degree granting institution)

format:
259 pages
electronic

subject:
Muscle
Achilles tendon
Energy cost
Locomotion
Running economy
Physiology

abstract:
Recently published reports suggest the role of the muscles and tendons of the lower limbs are an important factor in determining the energy cost of running (Erun). Specifically, there exists a link between the mechanical properties of the Achilles tendon (AT) and Erun but the impact of the muscle’s energy cost is not considered. To date, very little is known regarding the interaction between AT stiffness, muscle energetics and Erun. Further, little is known about the AT stiffnessenergetics relationship in female runners. Therefore, the overall goal of this thesis was to explore the relationship between AT stiffness and muscle energetics in male and female distance runners.
The first study revealed AT stiffness of female runners was lower than in males, but Erun was similar to males. Further, the relationship between Erun and Achilles tendon stiffness was not different between the sexes. Results from the second study demonstrated that when reductions in AT stiffness were simulated, the rate of muscle energy use was elevated and the magnitude of muscle activation needed to reach a target force was increased. A novel method of assessing AT moment arm was assessed in study four. A key finding was that moment arm did not change through ankle range of motion. These results were used in the fifth study which demonstrated using estimates of muscle energetics, along with kinematics and kinetics during running that strain energy release from the AT during running was significantly lower than the muscle energy cost required for strain energy storage to occur. Lastly, using a prolonged run as an acute method of reducing AT stiffness, the impact of changes in AT stiffness during running on muscle energetics and Erun was evaluated. Results from this final study suggest that prolonged running reduces AT stiffness, the impact of which is an elevated muscle energy cost and increased whole-body Erun without a significant increase in estimated AT strain energy release. Together these findings support the notion that the role of the AT in running is to accommodate muscle-tendon unit length change, thereby reducing the amount of muscle fascicle shortening and therefore muscle energy cost.


title: Animal Assisted Therapy as a Rehabilitation Tool in Correctional Facilities

rights: This work is completed entirely by Estera Kis. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
Animal assisted therapy
Inmate rehabilitation
Animal programs in prison
Animal intervention techniques

abstract: It is essential to not solely focus on the punishment of incarcerated individuals, but to also focus on the rehabilitation of inmates in order to successfully integrate them back into the community. Recently, correctional institutions have begun integrating canine and animal training programs as a non-traditional method of rehabilitation and therapy. Preliminary evidence demonstrates that inmates benefit from these programs, learning life-enhancing skills and lowering the rate of recidivism. This thesis will examine the effect of animal assisted therapy (AAT) on inmate rehabilitation in correctional facilities. Evidence from a number of studies indicate that inmates gain life enhancing skills and are able to improve their coping abilities to cater to their emotional and social needs. In addition, exploring the effects and benefits to not only inmates but also to society and the community, will significantly impact how AAT programs can be used as intervention techniques within the correctional system. Focusing exclusively on punishment will not work, incarcerated individuals need a program that instills a life changing attitude and this program can be AAT.


title: A Comprehensive Analysis of Section 24(2) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Evolving Evidentiary Rule

subject:
Section 24(2) of the Charter
Exclusion of evidence
Grant test
Living tree doctrine
Good faith policing

abstract: The Supreme Court of Canada’s (SCC) evolving understanding of section 24(2) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms has been informed largely by three landmark cases. In R. v. Collins (1987), R. v. Stillman (1997), and R. v. Grant (2009), the Court was required to consider the scope, applicability, and impact of the Charter. The Court’s most recent decision, R. v. Grant (2009), represented a major change to Canada’s constitutional exclusionary rule. A critical analysis of the Grant test will evaluate whether s. 24(2) provides a test that is rigorous enough to preserve the integrity of the administration of justice. This thesis will address criticism relating to the notion that the police conduct inquiry has become a determinative factor governing the admissibility of evidence. Under the first line of inquiry, the Court provides greater leeway for police conduct at the expense of individual rights and freedoms. This creates an imbalance between competing societal and state interests. A newly articulated s. 24(2) test that expands the scope of Charter-protected rights and constrains police powers will attempt to resolve this tension. This will be achieved by incorporating privacy interests into the s. 24(2) consideration and placing limitations on the concept of good faith. In doing so, this test will allow the Constitution to progressively adapt to changing societal needs, increasing knowledge, and technological advancements. These modifications will achieve a better balance between the rights-protection and truth-seeking functions of s. 24(2).


title: A Critical Analysis of the Similarities between the REID Interview Technique and the PEACE Interview Model

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Husam Sa’ad Kazim Arafat. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
Interviewing
Interrogation
Reid technique
PEACE model
Critical analysis

abstract:
The REID interview technique has received criticism from the academic and legal fields in
Canada and the United States. The criticism has led for calls to replace the REID technique with
the PEACE model. In this paper, the methods of the REID technique and PEACE model will be
outlined. Also, the legal cases involving the use of the REID technique in Canada will be
outlined. The PEACE model argument will also be outlined. That information will be used to
show a similarity between the REID technique and PEACE model. The similarity will show that
the criticism against the REID technique focuses on specific misunderstandings that are related
to the outcome of legal cases. The bigger picture will show that both techniques are similar in
many ways and that promoting the PEACE model over the REID technique does not solve any of
the issues outlined by the academic field.


title: The Bond Between Risk Factors and Youth Mentorship

rights: This work is completed entirely by Kaitlin McKendrick. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
At-risk youth
Social bond theory
Youth mentorship
Delinquency
Crime prevention

abstract: Youth that are deemed at-risk to commit crime typically have experienced one or more factors that put them at risk. The purpose of this thesis is to examine the factors that put youth at greater risk of engaging in criminal behaviour. Then through the lens of Professor Travis Hirschi’s social bonding theory, examine existing research on the effectiveness of youth mentoring programs in building resiliency. Through the social bonding theory and the development of bonding elements, it is determined that youth mentorship programs that follow certain criteria can be effective in reducing risk factors among youth. With the research obtained, this thesis then compiles the criteria that contribute to an effective youth mentorship program, and forms a rubric.


title: A Critical Assessment of Mr. Big Operations by Canada's Police

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Chanel J. Blais. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
Mr. Big (Investigation procedure)
Canadian law
Confessions
Nelson Hart
Undercover operations
Cody Bates

abstract:
The Canadian law enforcement Mr. Big operation continues to pose the risk of producing false
confessions and, therefore, miscarriages of justice. Some case law protections available to
prevent suspects from making incriminating statements are explicitly inapplicable to confessions
elicited from Mr. Big stings. The R v Hart (2014) common law rules have adequately helped to
address this by further analyzing the particular circumstances of a Mr. Big operation in the
pursuit of justice. The application of the R v Hart regulations has led to the inadmissibility of
several confessions and one exoneration. However, it did not exhaustively address all of the
collective grievances associated with the Canadian technique. The manner in which the R v Hart
common law rule is applied varies between cases. Several cases are compared to Hart’s personal
drastic circumstance, which by contrast reduces the perceived abuse of process. With increasing
police accountability, the use of violent inducements have decreased, and financial inducements
prevail. The possibility of injustice derived from this operation is still troubling. Canadians need
more applicable legal protections.


title: A Critical Analysis of Youth Programming Supports that are Offered To At-Risk Youth Within Canada and Australia

rights: This work was completed entirely by Luka L. Vlahov. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
At-risk youth
Youth
Youth support
Canada
Australia
Youth programs
At-risk youth programs

abstract: Youth, who are identified as being at-risk, have often experienced at least one negative event within their lifetime, with most experiencing more than one; these risk factors often elevate a youth’s risk at becoming victimized, or becoming involved with the criminal justice system. The at-risk youth population requires well-rounded programming in order to mitigate these potential outcomes. The purpose of this research paper is to critically examine various programs from similar countries, specifically from Canada, and Australia, and then identify the positive factors within each program. Then, utilizing the identified factors, a grading scale/criterion will be created in order to rank the programs with a numeric value. Further, by using the scaled programs, an analysis of Alberta will be conducted to determine if similar programs exist within the province.


title: Dark Net Markets: White House Market Drug Trades

subject:
Dark web
Drug trade
Dark net markets

abstract: Dark net markets (DNMs) are underground markets that ship goods and services globally. A main component of DNMs is the distribution of illegal drugs, these markets offer a wide range of drugs to users all over the world. Using data from the White House Market, a DNM site, this paper examines the price, amount, type, origin and destination countries of drug listings starting from January 6th to January 19th, 2020. It was found that there are restrictions on distribution based on the country of origin, with some countries having a higher rate of orders being shipped globally, potentially due to more lax standards in customs. DNMs appear to be a better alternative to conduct drug sale transactions than physical transactions as they add a substantial layer of protection from detection. This research also found that the drugs offered on DNMs are more pure, cheaper, and there is a significantly reduced chance of encountering physical violence.


title: Topics and tools in the introductory computer science curriculum

contributor: University of Calgary (Canada) (Degree granting institution)

subject:
Computer science
Education
Teaching methodology

abstract: The research outlined in this thesis deals primarily with the introductory computer science curriculum (i.e. the first two years). The topics and objectives are outlined first. This is the body of information that a finishing second year student should be expected to know. The results of the questionnaire given to computer science department members are discussed and then tools used for teaching computer science, both current and future, are describe.


title: Gated-ness, income segregation, and neighbourhood cohesion in Western Canadian metropolises.

contributor: University of Calgary Faculty of Environmental Design (Degree granting institution)

subject:
Cohesion
Gated communities
Calgary, Alberta
Surry, B.C.
Urban and regional planning

abstract:
This research investigated the relation between the degree of gated-ness of a neighbourhood and the level of neighbourhood cohesion among its residents. Such an investigation was prompted by the current practice of municipal planners for promoting a grid pattern of streets
for neighbourhoods and linking such a pattern with principles of resilience and connectedness while at the same time condemning altogether the enclave pattern of curvilinear streets, loops and cul-de-sacs as being non-resilient and non-sustainable. Municipal planners seem to overlook the reasons behind the morphological development of postwar suburbs as well as overlook, in particular, socio-psychological effects of their physical structure and access configuration. This research introduces new typologies in order to differentiate neighbourhoods along those two structural aspects. By undertaking a comparative analysis of four case studies in two Western Canadian metropolises, this research argues that semi-gated neighbourhoods raise cohesion among residents. The major findings of the research are that residents’ sense of neighbourhood cohesion, for both its affective and interactive dimensions, increased in the case of neighbourhoods that had a sense of enveloping space, a sense of entry into a domain that is signalled by the degree of exclusion and seclusion of the development. This research does not claim that all neighbourhoods need to be single access ones. Rather, it suggests that in as much as a neighbourhood is successful in conveying a cohesive image for such a domain, in as much do residents identify with the
neighbourhood and with each other. The aesthetic quality of such a domain plays a role of informing residents who gradually develop an embodied space such that residents of the neighbourhood could be identifiable from outsiders. Such a process of in-forming and embodiment sets a common ground for social acceptance, sense of familiarity, and facilitates social interaction among residents who have developed common norms and values over time.


title: Media's Impact on Campus Rape Culture

type: thesis Text

subject:
Criminal justice
Rape culture
Campus

abstract: The term ‘rape culture’ was coined in the 1970s by American feminists, to describe a culture of intimidation whereby male aggression toward women is both normalized and encouraged (Buchwald, Fletcher, & Roth, 1993). This honours project explores rape culture transmitted via an online medium at a Canadian university campus. Despite over 40 years of addressing sexual assault in Canada, research continues to show that approximately 20%-28.5% of Canadian undergraduate females are sexually assaulted during their four-year degree (Krebs, Lindquist, Warner, Fisher & Martin, 2009, p.643; Newton-Taylor, DeWit, & Gliksman, 1998, p. 156; Suran, 2014, p. 274). This is especially concerning since, in comparison, police reporting of sexual assault was at 5% in 2014 (Perreault, 2015, p. 25) and on-campus reporting consisted of only 700 documented cases from 87 Canadian universities and major colleges, between 2009 and 2013 (CBC News, 2015). Only since 2014 have universities and colleges begun to openly acknowledge the need for such policies and protocols (Mathieu, 2014, para. 6). The focus of this Honours project is to examine the student-led Facebook page “MRU Confessions” that is directed towards Mount Royal University students in Calgary, Alberta. Using a content analysis approach, the aim is to examine how, and to what extent media facilitates or challenges campus rape culture.  Although this project is exploratory in nature and focuses on only one Canadian campus, it provides a basis from which other studies exploring rape culture on university campuses can emerge. Ultimately, this project aims to invoke discussion and increase awareness concerning rape culture while providing commentary to the development of a national framework that universities can use in shaping policy, programs, and education.


title: An Exploration into the Recruitment and Retention Strategies of Female Officers at the Calgary Police Service: Are Female Officers Overlooked Within the Promotional Process?

contributor:
Saban, Taylore (author)
(Degree granting institution)
Tavcer, D. Scharie (thesis advisor)

subject:
Recruitment
Retention (Employee)
Promotion
Female officers
Calgary Police Service

abstract: Since the beginning, policing has been a male-dominated para-military profession. Through the increasing participation of women in the workforce, policing has and continues to grow as a diverse organization. This research is focused on the position of women in the police hierarchy in relation to their positive and negative experiences. Using only secondary data, this study builds onto existing information concerning female officers within the Calgary Police Service. Additionally, this thesis demonstrates the theoretical context of the glass ceiling and functionalist theories in the examination of female participation in the police promotional process.


title: No Return Ticket: CBSA Deportation in Canada

contributor:
Sumera, Lucas (author)
Sundberg, Kelly (thesis advisor)
(Degree granting institution)

rights: Copyright Lucas Sumera, unless otherwise noted. This thesis may be made available for loan and limited copying in accordance with the Copyright Act, RSC 1985, c C-42.

subject:
Deportation
Canada
Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
Detention
Border security
Thesis

abstract:
Viewed through the theoretical lens of securitization theory & moral regulation, this thesis examines deportation and detainment in Canada across CBSA jurisdictional regions. Furthermore, this thesis attempted to explain how deportation and detainment trends changed since 2005, and what may be possible causes. Being a descriptive analysis study, this thesis utilizes a documentary research methodology to gather data, while using current literature to explain border security and deportation in Canada—bolstering results from the analysis on deportation and detainment statistics. The findings from the results ultimately provide new insight for CBSA, as well as for future research into the efficacy of operations of CBSA and the status quo on border security.

Findings from this thesis show deportation rates, across the majority of CBSA jurisdictional regions, have been steadily declining since 2005. Furthermore, it was found as deportation rates decline, average days detained and detention rates have increased nationally since 2005. Although this thesis was able to answer its research question in part, it was not able to answer any causes of change because of a lack of literature on the topic—which is a gap of knowledge future researchers can address.


title: Sex Work in Canada: Examining Legal, Moral, and Theoretical Perspectives on the Issues

contributor:
Millis, Spencer (author)
King, Doug (thesis advisor)
(Degree granting institution)

subject:
Canada
Laws and legislation
Charter
Prostitution
Sex work

abstract: In Canada, the sale of sex for money was not illegal under the former legislative structure. Regardless, the laws making up that structure were challenged for constitutionality in two cases and were heard by the Supreme Court of Canada. Two vastly different decisions were delivered in the 1990 Prostitution Reference and Bedford decisions, with the latter case repealing the old sex work laws. The Canadian government drafted new laws in response to the repealed laws. Evidence suggests that the new model of sex work regulation is harmful and does little to address the constitutional defects identified in the Bedford decision. This legislative approach comes from the adoption of perspectives from a moral crusade against prostitution, and similar legal structures in other parts of the world. The shortcomings of the law, and the questionable framework it stems from suggests that the government must do more to meet the needs of sex workers in Canada. The examination of this topic raises several philosophical questions that might be considered in future research.


title: The Interpretation of Assisted Death Under Section Seven of the Canadian Charter

contributor:
Sidhu, Mneet Kaur (author)
King, Doug (thesis advisor)
(Degree granting institution)

subject: Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms

subject: Fundamental justice

subject: Section 7 (Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms)

subject: Supreme Court

subject: Assisted death

subject: Thesis

abstract: This study explores the evolution of the Supreme Court of Canada’s (SCC’s) interpretation of s. 7 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Considering that s. 7 of the Charter is one of the most expansive and influential portions of the purposive document, understanding the ways in which the interpretation of the section has changed throughout time, is quite valuable. The fact that even the supreme law of Canada can be understood and applied differently over time, is vital to understand. It then becomes possible to theorize and comprehend how interpretations may change in the future for s. 7, and for other portions of the Charter as well. The study begins by examining first, the judicial history of cases pertaining to the matter of assisted death in Canada. Dissecting the changed s. 7 interpretations found in the relevant cases, the study moves to then examine future implications that are significant to the matter of physician assisted death (PAD) in Canada. Speculations are provided on the future of the legislation surrounding medical assistance in dying (MAID), and on how the societal and judicial understanding of s. 7 and MAID are likely to change and further evolve.


title: The Notion Of Criminal Intent: The Evolution Of Mens Rea In Criminal Law

contributor:
Byelikova, Daryna (author)
King, Doug (thesis advisor)
(Degree granting institution)

subject:
Criminal law
Subjective liability
Criminal intent
Moral blameworthiness
Criminal culpability
Legal defence
Mental disorder
Thesis
Mens rea
Objective liability

abstract: This thesis evaluates the legal concept of mens rea to better understand its meaning and significance in criminal law. Included in this thesis is the examination of the evolution of criminal law from Roman law to today's Canadian criminal law, through the lens of the foundational principle of mens rea, through its application in numerous Supreme Court of Canada cases, has either reinforced the interpretation of laws or set out a new framework on how the law should be interpreted. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate how mens rea guided criminal law by emphasizing the purpose of the justice system, the purpose and significance of the mental element within an offence; how the law is interpreted using the concept of mens rea, the degree of culpability within an offence; and a higher standard of burden of proof. Mens rea has many functions such as to guard against the wrongful conviction of morally innocent individuals and to protect our society from those who caused harm. Mens rea also helps distinguish between the degrees of moral blameworthiness within each crime and to understand the concept of burden of proof. Lastly, mens rea is critical in a court's determining of appropriate punishment. Finally, this thesis links the concept of mens rea to legal defences in criminal law.


title: Undergraduate Perceptions of Social Media and Meaning Making: Validated Survey Instrument

rights: Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

subject:
Survey instrument
Social media
Undergraduate students
Constructivism
Meaning making

abstract: This instrument was developed as a part of the Erika E. Smith’s (2016) doctoral thesis, Exploring undergraduate perceptions of meaning making and social media in their learning, completed at the University of Alberta. For more information, please see: https://doi.org/10.7939/R33J39B71 and https://doi.org/10.1186/s41239-017-0049-y