Fall 2023
September
Grant Writing for Grad Students: How to write convincing applications and proposals for grants, fellowships, and awards
Wednesday, September 20 | 1 – 2:30 pm
This workshop, tailored for graduate students, gives an overview of grant writing strategies that can be applied across disciplines – in academia (e.g. SSHRC), the arts (e.g. Canada Council for the Arts), and beyond.
The two instructors will provide tips and tricks for writing convincing proposals, share successful examples (and pitfalls to avoid), and guide students in figuring out the ‘whys’ and ‘hows’ of their own proposals.
A one hour lecture will be followed by a 30min Q&A to answer your questions. Beginners and experienced grant writers are welcome and people with proposals in progress are encouraged to participate.
THIS IS AN ONLINE WORKSHOP
October
AR Tools & Best Practices
Wednesday, October 4 | 1 -2 pm
This 1 hour introductory session will provide an overview of AR (Augmented Reality) tools and best practices. The session will be broken into two 30 minute segments for a presentation and development demo. Participants can expect to learn about the current trends in AR, along with development tips for creating 2D and 3D AR experiences. 3D modelling and 2D animation will also be discussed, along with the advantages and disadvantages for each when developing for AR experiences. Finally, participants can expect to learn about image tracking optimization for AR along with the best practices for 3D modeling, 2D animation, and interaction design. All the software discussed in this session will be open source, and the slides will be provided to participants after the session.
THIS IS AN IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
**POST-PONED** In the Field for Grad Students: How to do Qualitative Interviews, Start to Finish
November 2023 | Date and Time TBC
Interviews. Don’t we already know how to do interviews? What’s so special about talking to people? What’s the difference between talking to someone and conducting an interview? Humans are chatty creatures and we exchange information and ideas all the time in conversation. But in research, qualitative interviews – no matter your discipline or research area – require more care, an art unto itself.
Join two experienced scholars and practitioners who have years of experience working of “in the field,” formally and informally interviewing people with different lived experiences, in a variety of settings, for a range of applications (including print publications, podcasts, radio features, documentary films and more). They offer tips, tools, and anecdotes from working in the field.
Learn about how to prepare for your own qualitative interviews, hear about recording interviews for your scholarly research and also future proofing those recordings for other forms of dissemination like podcasts and radio features. Find out about the ins and outs of interviewing folks for your research, from finding interviewees, designing questions, developing rapport, the complexities of ethics, data management, and transcriptions – and everything in between.
THIS IS AN ONLINE WORKSHOP
November
3D Design for Prototyping with Fusion 360
Tuesday, November 7 | 11 am – 12:30 pm
A skill building workshop that will introduce beginners to 3D design software.
Participants will learn the basics of 3D design for 3D printing for prototyping purposes, and be introduced to the concept of designing something to be printed in 3D and in other methods of fabrication.
*It helps to have Fusion 360 to follow along, but is not required. Beginners are welcome.
THIS IS AN IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
ChatGPT Pro Tips & Alternatives
Tuesday, November 14 | 1 – 2:00 pm
Dive deep into the world of ChatGPT, exploring its versatile plugin integrations, and discover cutting-edge technologies akin to ChatGPT. Equip yourself with practical tips and tricks to harness the full potential of GPT for efficient outcomes. Elevate your AI conversational skills and broaden your knowledge horizon.
THIS IS AN ONLINE WORKSHOP
Summer 2023
August
Introduction to AI Art
Tuesday, August 29, 2023 | 11:00 am – Noon
This workshop is an introduction to the exciting world of AI-Art. It’s designed for the general public and doesn’t require any prior knowledge of AI or art. During the workshop, you’ll learn about the basics of how AI can be used to create art and the different types of AI-generated art that are being produced today. You’ll also have the opportunity to experiment with some simple tools and techniques for creating your own AI-generated art. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have a better understanding of how AI is being used in the art world and will have created your own unique pieces of AI-generated art. It’s a great opportunity to learn something new and have fun at the same time!
THIS IS AN ONLINE WORKSHOP.
This workshop does not require registration. This is a drop-in workshop.
July
In the Field: How to do Qualitative Interviews, Start to Finish
Wednesday, July 19, 2023 | 1 – 2:30 pm
Interviews. Don’t we already know how to do interviews? What’s so special about talking to people? What’s the difference between talking to someone and conducting an interview? Humans are chatty creatures and we exchange information and ideas all the time in conversation. But in research, qualitative interviews – no matter your discipline or research area – require more care, an art unto itself.
Join two experienced scholars and practitioners who have years of experience working of “in the field,” formally and informally interviewing people with different lived experiences, in a variety of settings, for a range of applications (including print publications, podcasts, radio features, documentary films and more). They offer tips, tools, and anecdotes from working in the field.
Learn about how to prepare for your own qualitative interviews, hear about recording interviews for your scholarly research and also future proofing those recordings for other forms of dissemination like podcasts and radio features. Find out about the ins and outs of interviewing folks for your research, from finding interviewees, designing questions, developing rapport, the complexities of ethics, data management, and transcriptions – and everything in between.
June
3D Design for Prototyping with Fusion 360
June 27, 2023 | 1 – 2:30 PM
A skill building workshop that will introduce beginners to 3D design software.<br>Participants will learn the basics of 3D design for 3D printing for prototyping purposes, and be introduced to the concept of designing something to be printed in 3D and in other methods of fabrication.
THIS IS AN IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Introduction to Adobe Lightroom (Classic), Part II
June 15, 2023 | 11 am – 12:30 pm
A two-part workshop exploring some of the important functions and applications of Adobe Lightroom.
Part II: The hour-long workshop will provide attendees with an introduction to a standard workflow using Lightroom. During the session attendees will learn how to import, process, and export a series of images using this powerful image software, followed by a Q&A.
Having Lightroom is not required, but will help to follow along.
For more information about downloading it: https://helpx.adobe.com/ca/lightroom-classic/get-started.html
Winter 2023
March
Introduction to AI Art
Thursday, March 2, 2023 | 6 – 7:30 p.m.
This workshop is an introduction to the exciting world of AI-Art. It’s designed for the general public and doesn’t require any prior knowledge of AI or art. During the workshop, you’ll learn about the basics of how AI can be used to create art and the different types of AI-generated art that are being produced today. You’ll also have the opportunity to experiment with some simple tools and techniques for creating your own AI-generated art. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have a better understanding of how AI is being used in the art world and will have created your own unique pieces of AI-generated art. It’s a great opportunity to learn something new and have fun at the same time!
Introduction to Adobe Lightroom Classic, Part 1
Wednesday, March 15, 2023 | 1 – 2:30 p.m.
A two-part workshop exploring some of the important functions and applications of Adobe Lightroom Classic.
Part I: The hour-long workshop will provide attendees with a basic understanding of the software’s interface, modules, and tools for use in photographic post-production and archive management.
For more information about downloading it: https://helpx.adobe.com/ca/lightroom-classic/get-started.html
Practice-Based Research & Research-Creation + You
Thursday, March 23, 2023 | 1 – 2:30 p.m.
This workshop is an introduction to “Research-Creation” (the intersection of making, theory, and research) that looks at how you can use creative and practice-based research, whatever your discipline. As the understanding of knowledge generation and knowledge translation in academia evolve, opportunities for alternative forms of research and dissemination are rapidly expanding. How can you incorporate these sometimes radical ideas into your projects, theses, and dissertations, and how can interdisciplinary collaboration enhance your research? Participants from all backgrounds and fields are welcome and invited (but not required) to bring ideas, questions, and works in progress. No prior experience with research-creation is necessary.
April
3D Visualization With XR Technology
Wednesday, April 5th, 2023 | 1 – 2:30pm
This is an IN-PERSON workshop.
This in-person workshop will provide an overview of 3D visualization using specific XR (Extended Reality) technologies, in addition to development tips in the Unity Game Engine. Participants will get hands on experience with various XR technologies including the Tilt 5 Holographic Dev Kit, the Looking Glass Volumetric Display, and the Quest 2 VR headset. In addition with this, participants will also get the opportunity to view 3D simulations in the TMU Library Immersion Studio, which is a 360 degree projection cylinder for shared VR experiences. Development tips will also be provided for each showcased technology.
This workshop is aimed to help participants gain more exposure with XR technology and 3D visualization, and does not require any prior 3D development knowledge to attend the workshop.
3D Design for Prototyping with Fusion 360
Wednesday April 12, 2023 | 1 – 2:30pm
A skill building two-part series that will introduce beginners to 3D design software.
Part I: Participants will learn the basics of 3D design for 3D printing for prototyping purposes, and be introduced to the concept of designing something to be printed in 3D and in other methods of fabrication.
*It helps to have Fusion 360 to follow along, but is not required. Beginners are welcome.
From 3D Model to Physical Object: Introduction to 3D Printing
Wednesday, April 26, 2023 | 1 – 2:30 p.m.
This is an IN-PERSON session.
This in-person, hands-on workshop will introduce attendees to the basics of 3D modelling and how to use 3D printers to bring their digital creations into the physical world. No previous experience is required but attendees are requested to bring a laptop with Blender installed.
Spring/Summer 2022
Introduction to Adobe Lightroom Classic, Part 1
Wednesday, June 8 2022 | 1 – 2 p.m.
June
A two-part workshop exploring some of the important functions and applications of Adobe Lightroom Classic.
Part I: The hour-long workshop will provide attendees with a basic understanding of the software’s interface, modules, and tools for use in photographic post-production and archive management, followed by a Q&A.
Having Lightroom is not required, but will help to follow along.
For more information about downloading it: https://helpx.adobe.com/ca/lightroom-classic/get-started.html
Introduction to Adobe Lightroom Classic, Part 2
Thursday, June 9 2022 | 1 – 2 p.m.
A two-part workshop exploring some of the important functions and applications of Adobe Lightroom.
Part II: The hour-long workshop will provide attendees with an introduction to a standard workflow using Lightroom. During the session attendees will learn how to import, process, and export a series of images using this powerful image software, followed by a Q&A.
Having Lightroom is not required, but will help to follow along.
For more information about downloading it: https://helpx.adobe.com/ca/lightroom-classic/get-started.html
Practice-Based Research & Research-Creation for You
Wednesday, June 22 2022 | 1 – 2:30 p.m.
This workshop is an introduction to “Research-Creation” (the intersection of arts, theory, and research) that looks at how you can use creative and practice-based research, whatever your discipline. As the understanding of knowledge generation and knowledge translation in academia evolve, opportunities for alternative forms of research and dissemination are rapidly expanding. How can you incorporate these sometimes radical ideas into your projects, theses, and dissertations and how can interdisciplinary collaboration enhance your research? Participants from all backgrounds and fields are welcome and invited (but not required) to bring ideas, questions, and works in progress. No prior experience with research-creation is necessary.
July
Perfecting the Project Pitch
Wednesday, July 13 2022 | 1 – 2:00 p.m.
A one-hour online workshop focused on developing attendees pitching skills for academic and non-academic projects. The workshop will provide practical guidance, tips, and personalized feedback. The workshop will involve a presentation by the instructor followed by breakout groups and presentations of attendees’ pitches.
3D Design for Prototyping with Fusion 360
Wednesday, July 20 2022 | 1 – 2:30 p.m.
A short online workshop introducing 3D design software. Participants will learn the basics of 3D design for 3D printing for prototyping purposes. This workshop will introduce the concept of designing something to be made with 3D printing or some other method of fabrication.
Adapting Your Research for Audio
Thursday July 28 2022 | 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Ever thought about the different kinds of ways you could present your graduate research? Seeking a creative outlet, but don’t want to get too derailed? Audio often requires a different kind of narrative, one that might lead you to contextualize your research a little bit differently or understand it from another perspective. Participants will learn about telling the engaging story of research and writing for audio, and adapting from their academic writing. This is not a technical workshop, no experience required.
August
Grant Writing for Grad Students
Wednesday, August 3 2022 | 1 – 2:30 p.m.
A small workshop provides instruction and strategies for grant writing. The workshop will involve informal lecture by the instructor and short presentations by participants. Participants will be expected to come to the workshop with draft versions of their proposal and will work with the instructor and other participants to refine their ideas over the course of the workshop.
Create Your Own Deep Fakes
Wednesday, August 10 2022 | 1 – 2:00 p.m.
A one-hour workshop focused on learning about deep fakes and a tutorial session on creating participants’ own deep fakes. This workshop will provide a technical tutorial. A basic to intermediate knowledge regarding Python is preferred but not required.
The workshop will involve a presentation by the instructor followed by a Q&A session.
Intro to Audacity and Audio Editing (TBC)
Wednesday, August 17 2022 | 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Learn audio editing basics with free and open software, Audacity in this tutorial session. Learn about how and where to source royalty-free and Creative Commons licensed sounds and music, quick tricks to cleaning up your audio, and the best inexpensive tools and techniques of the trade to get clean sound.
Winter 2022
Grant Writing for Graduate Students (Workshop)
January 19, 2022 | 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
A small workshop provides instruction and strategies for grant writing. The workshop will involve informal lecture by the instructor and short presentations by participants. Participants will be expected to come to the workshop with draft versions of their proposal and will work with the instructor and other participants to refine their ideas over the course of the workshop.
Editing Images with AI (Talk/Workshop)
January 20, 2022 | 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
A one-hour workshop focused on learning and using AI tools that can be used to edit images. This workshop will provide technical tutorials. This workshop involves a presentation followed by a hands-on tutorial.
Basic to intermediate knowledge about Python is preferred but not required.
Working or Not Working with Problematic Data: Mugshots and Non-Consensual Facial Datasets (Presentation)
February 3, 2022 | 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
This presentation begins with the question “When dealing with problematic datasets, how might artists and/or researchers critique and show the contents of such datasets without replicating the extractive, colonial, misogynist, and/or racist practices within?”
Jae Seo and Aaron Tucker will detail their experiences visualizing the Multiple Encounter Dataset (MEDS) I and II composed of mugshots of deceased people. Drawing from Nicholas Mirzoeff’s concept of “the right to look” this presentation will explore the limitations of repurposing facial datasets and work towards a relational approach that grants dignity and equity to those whose subject positions are reproduced within such datasets, while still critiquing the production and deployment of face recognition technologies that utilize such datasets.
Introduction to Adobe Lightroom Classic, Part I (Workshop)
February 9, 2022 | 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
A two-part workshop exploring some of the important functions and applications of Adobe Lightroom, instructed by PhD Candidate and Library Collaboratory RA Nathaniel Brunt.
Part I: The hour-long workshop will provide attendees with a basic understanding of the software’s interface, modules, and tools for use in photographic post-production and archive management. This workshop will be followed by a short Q & A.
*Participants do not need to have Adobe Lightroom to attend, but it will help to follow along more closely.
Introduction to Adobe Lightroom Classic, Part II (Workshop)
February 16, 2022 | 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
A two-part workshop exploring some of the important functions and applications of Adobe Lightroom, instructed by PhD Candidate and Library Collaboratory RA Nathaniel Brunt.
Part II: The hour-long workshop will provide attendees with an introduction to a standard workflow using Lightroom. During the session attendees will learn how to import, process, and export a series of images using this powerful image software. This workshop will be followed by a short Q & A.
*Participants do not need to have Adobe Lightroom to attend, but it will help to follow along more closely.
Into the Metaverse (Talk/Presentation)
March 1, 2022 | 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
This talk will focus on the mysteries surrounding the Metaverse including what it is, where the term originated from, what it looks like now, and what it will look like in the future. Concepts pertaining to the evolution of XR (Extended Reality) and AI (Artificial Intelligence), along with the Metadata of people will be discussed to foster discussion and unpack the Metaverse on a theoretical level. Additionally, key topics related to the drawbacks of the Metaverse will be discussed as well, including how it relates to the digital divide, its implications on personal privacy, and its negative contribution to online harassment. Ultimately, this talk will shed light on common questions and concerns of the Metaverse after it was popularized by Meta (formally Facebook), and attempt to foster in depth discussion with participants on whether the pros outweigh the cons.
Perfecting the Project Pitch (Workshop)
March 10, 2022 | 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
A one-hour workshop focused on developing attendees pitching skills for academic and non-academic projects. The workshop will provide practical guidance, tips, and personalized feedback. The workshop will involve a presentation by the instructor followed by breakout groups and presentations of attendees’ pitches.
Capture Your World (Talk/Presentation)
March 16, 2022 | 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
The presentation is a survey of various methods of scanning real world environment and objects to create digital 3D models. This is an introduction to the technologies that are either currently available or being developed at the Library Collaboratory. Examples of these technologies include: photogrammetry, stereo camera, Arctic Spider, structured light camera, and LiDAR.
Create Your Own Deep Fakes
March 24, 2022 | 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
A one-hour workshop focused on learning about deep fakes and a tutorial session on creating participants own deep fakes. This workshop will provide a technical tutorial. The workshop will involve a presentation followed by a Q&A session.
Basic to intermediate knowledge about Python is preferred but not required.
Fall 2021
Grant Writing for Graduate Students (Workshop)
October 5, 2021 | 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
A small workshop provides instruction and strategies for grant writing. The workshop will involve informal lecture by the instructor and short presentations by participants. Participants will be expected to come to the workshop with draft versions of their proposal and will work with the instructor and other participants to refine their ideas over the course of the workshop.
Perfecting the Pitch (Talk/Workshop)
October 27, 2021 | 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
A one-hour workshop focused on developing attendees pitching skills for academic and non-academic projects. The workshop will provide practical guidance, tips, and personalized feedback. The workshop will involve a presentation by the instructor followed by breakout groups and presentations of attendees’ pitches.
AI Tools for Selfies (Workshop)
November 5, 2021 | 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Learn how artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to edit selfies! Participants will learn how to run different AI algorithms on Google Colab to modify and morph selfies. This workshop will cover how to use StyleGAN2 to generate and edit faces.
* The workshop assumes that attendees have a working knowledge of Python and Google Colab Notebook. The code/lesson will be shared via Google Colab Notebook.
This workshop will not cover the basics of Python or Google Colab Notebook.
Introduction to Adobe Lightroom Classic, Part I (Workshop)
November 16, 2021 | 1:00 p.m.
A two-part workshop exploring some of the important functions and applications of Adobe Lightroom, instructed by PhD Candidate and Library Collaboratory RA Nathaniel Brunt.
Part I: The hour-long workshop will provide attendees with a basic understanding of the software’s interface, modules, and tools for use in photographic post-production and archive management. This workshop will be followed by a short Q & A.
*Participants do not need to have Adobe Lightroom to attend, but it will help to follow along more closely.
Introduction to Adobe Lightroom Classic, Part II (Workshop)
November 23, 2021 | 1:00 p.m.
A two-part workshop exploring some of the important functions and applications of Adobe Lightroom, instructed by PhD Candidate and Library Collaboratory RA Nathaniel Brunt.
Part II: The hour-long workshop will provide attendees with an introduction to a standard workflow using Lightroom. During the session attendees will learn how to import, process, and export a series of images using this powerful image software. This workshop will be followed by a short Q & A.
*Participants do not need to have Adobe Lightroom to attend, but it will help to follow along more closely.
First Look at Intersections Between AI and VR/XR (Talk/Presentation)
November 26, 2021 | 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
In this talk, projects and topics that have both aspects of artificial intelligence and virtual reality/mixed reality will be presented. Topics related to how those two different fields of studies come together for different types of applications will be discussed. Finally, we will present our own project where AI-generated movie posters were presented in an immersive environment such as Igloovision.
Spring/Summer 2021
Perfecting the Project Pitch (Workshop)
June 16, 2021 | 11:00 a.m. – Noon
A one-hour workshop focused on undergraduate and graduate students developing their pitching skills for academic and non-academic projects.
This workshop is instructed by PhD Candidate and Library Collaboratory RA Nathaniel Brunt, who will provide practical guidance, tips, and personalized feedback.
The workshop will involve a presentation by the instructor followed by breakout groups and presentations of attendees’ pitches.
Contact collab@torontomu.ca with any questions or concerns about this workshop.
A Beginner’s Guide to Conducting Textual Analysis (On Less Than A Dime) (Workshop)
June 28, 20021 | 11 a.m. – Noon
Textual analysis investigates how language, pictures and symbols can provide insight on how something or someone is communicating. Learn the basics about what text analysis can tell you about a person or organization, and some free tools to help you do it. Instructed by PhD Candidate and Library Collaboratory RA Tanya Pobuda, this workshop is where you will learn about free tools and fun ways to analyze text.
Contact collab@torontomu.ca with any questions or concerns about this workshop.
Introduction to Adobe Lightroom I (Workshop)
July 7, 2021 | 1 – 2:00 p.m.
A two-part workshop exploring some of the important functions and applications of Adobe Lightroom, instructed by PhD Candidate and Library Collaboratory RA Nathaniel Brunt.
Part I: The hour-long workshop will provide attendees with a basic understanding of the software’s interface, modules, and tools for use in photographic post-production and archive management. This workshop will be followed by a short Q & A.
*Participants do not need to have Adobe Lightroom to attend, but it will help to follow along more closely.
Contact collab@torontomu.ca with any questions or concerns about this workshop.
Introduction to Adobe Lightroom II (Workshop)
July 15, 2021 | 1 – 2:00 p.m.
A two-part workshop exploring some of the important functions and applications of Adobe Lightroom, instructed by PhD Candidate and Library Collaboratory RA Nathaniel Brunt.
Part II: The hour-long workshop will provide attendees with an introduction to a standard workflow using Lightroom. During the session attendees will learn how to import, process, and export a series of images using this powerful image software. This workshop will be followed by a short Q & A.
*Participants do not need to have Adobe Lightroom to attend, but it will help to follow along more closely.
Contact collab@torontomu.ca with any questions or concerns about this workshop.
AI Tools for Selfies (Workshop)
July 23, 2021 | 11:00 a.m. – Noon
Come and learn how artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to edit your selfies! Participants of this workshop will learn how to run different AI algorithms on Google Colab in order to modify and morph their selfies. Led by Library Collaboratory RA Jae Duk Seo, this workshop will cover using StyleGAN2 to generate and edit faces.
* The workshop assumes that attendees have a working knowledge of Python and Google Colab Notebook. The code/lesson will be shared via Google Colab Notebook.
This workshop will not cover the basics of Python or Google Colab Notebook.
Contact collab@torontomu.ca with any questions or concerns about this workshop.
Introduction to 3D Architecture Modelling (with Blender)
July 27, 2021 | 1 – 2 p.m.
Instructed by Immersive Technology Specialist Michael Carter-Arlt, this introductory tutorial will focus on basic techniques to design 3D architectural structures in Blender.
The session will go over basic Blender tools, essential modifiers, object editing techniques, lighting, texturing, optimization techniques, and exporting for Unity 3D. By the end of the session, the goal is for participants to gain a basic understanding of 3D modelling using Blender in order to create 3D structures quickly and effectively on their own.
* No software is required for this event. Participants are welcome to download Blender and Unity if they wish to follow along more closely. Both are available at no cost.
3D Design for Prototyping with Fusion 360 I (Workshop)
August 12, 2021 | 2 – 3:30 p.m.
A skill building two-part series that will introduce beginners to 3D design software, instructed by Jimmy Tran, Research Technology Officer.
Part I: Participants will learn the basics of 3D design for 3D printing for prototyping purposes, and be introduced to the concept of designing something to be printed in 3D and in other methods of fabrication.
* It helps to have Fusion 360 to follow along, but is not required. Beginners are welcome.
Contact collab@torontomu.ca with any questions or concerns about this workshop.
AI Audio Tools for MP3 or WAV (Workshop)
August 20, 2021 | 11 a.m. – Noon
This workshop introduces AI tools that can be used to generate, and/or edit audio files. Led by Library Collaboratory RA Jae Duk Seo, participants will learn how to run different AI algorithms on Google Colab. The workshop will cover how to detect pitch and how to transfer one pitch to another.
* The workshop assumes that attendees have a working knowledge of Python and Google Colab Notebook. The code/lesson will be shared via Google Colab Notebook.
This workshop will not cover the basics of Python or Google Colab Notebook
.Contact collab@torontomu.ca with any questions or concerns about this workshop.
Winter 2021
Project Management for Graduate Student Research Design (Workshop)
January 19, 2021 | 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Working on small or large-scale projects, and have no idea how to start? Work with Tanya Pobuda, a fellow graduate student who is also a Project Management Institute-certified Project Management Professional (PMP), to learn some of the basic principles of project management to help you supercharge your productivity and get stuff done.
Build Your Own Creative Portfolio Using WordPress (Skill-building)
January 27, 2021 | 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Have creative projects you want to share with the scholarly community and industry contacts? Learn how to build your own portfolio site in this easy overview. Tanya Pobuda and Cristina Pietropaolo will take you through the basics of using WordPress themes, so you’ll be able to build a starter website for your teaching dossier, creative projects or professional resume.
Introduction to 3D Design for Prototyping (Skill-building)
February 2, 2021 | 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Led by Jimmy Tran, this short skill-building session will introduce beginners to 3D design software. Participants will learn the basics of 3D design for 3D printing for prototyping purposes, and be introduced to the concept of designing something to be 3D printed and other fabrication methods.
* This session is open to the Ryerson community. No prevous experience necessary.
** Participants are encouraged to download Fusion 360 to follow along. Contact collab@torontomu.ca with any software-related questions.
Digital Restoration Techniques (Skill-building + Talk/Presentation)
February 9, 2021 | 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Digital restoration is the process of restoring damaged artworks in a way that is not intrusive to the original piece. Michael Carter-Arlt will lead participants through various techniques used in digital restoration and provide in-depth knowledge on how each tool is used. Real world examples will be analyzed in this session, and will demonstrate some of the techniques that were used to restore damaged manuscript leaves for the “Remastered” exhibit at the Aga Khan Museum.
* The session is open to the Ryerson community. Beginners and experts alike are welcome.
** Participants are welcome to follow along using Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop, but software is not required to attend this session
Research Poster Design (Workshop)
February 22, 2021 | 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Across all academic disciplines, research posters are an important way of communicating research. We invite you to join New Media Designer Lee Chapman to learn some tips and tricks to make your research poster stand out. This workshop will cover information organization, design principles and strategies for discussing your research with others.
* This is open to the Ryerson community.
** No software required to follow along.
Grant Writing for Graduate Students (Workshop)
March 3, 2021 | 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
A small workshop designed for approximately 5-10 participants that provides instruction and strategies for successful academic and non-academic grant writing. The workshop will involve informal lecture by instructor Nathaniel Brunt and short presentations by participants. There will also be the opportunity to book one-on-one instruction at a later time if needed.
* This is open to graduate students at Ryerson.
** Participants should be prepared and bring their work.
Create an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Chatbot (Skill-building)
March 10, 2021 | 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Led by Tanya Pobuda, this quick start session will show you the basics of creating a chatbot from the Amazon Web Services (AWS) portfolio of tools, including Amazon Lex. Learn the basics and discuss the psychological and sociological implications of UX copywriting in this provocative quick-start training session.
* This is open to the Ryerson community. Beginners are welcome.
ExtravaGAN!za (Talk/Presentation)
March 17, 2021 | 11:00 a.m. – Noon
Recent developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) brings image generation capability to a whole new level. But we can mix the old with the new? Learn about the process of bringing old movie posters to life. Join Jae Seo to see how it was done, and to discover how Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) can be used!
Drones in the Library: Creating Data Through Photogrammetry (Talk/Presentation)
March 23, 2021 | 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
At Toronto Metropolitan University Library, we collaborate with researchers across a variety of disciplines that require capturing and modeling the real world in 3 dimensions (3D). To do so, several 3D reconstruction technologies have been applied, varying in cost and ease of use. Some applications require capturing large areas for which a Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) or “drone” presents a cost effective option for data acquisition. In this installment of the Drones in Library series, Jimmy Tran and Dan Jakubek will take you through the process of creating orthomosaics, digital terrain/surface models, point cloud datasets and 3D meshes. The process of Aerial Photogrammetry will be described using Pix4D Capture to outline the flight planning process. A live demonstration of Drone2Map software will follow to illustrate the processing workflows necessary for data creation.
The Real World Laboratory of Algorithmic Policing and Migration Control (Panel Discussion)
April 6, 2021 | 11:00 a.m. – Noon
Please join Petra Molnar from York University and Kate Robertson from the Citizen Lab, in a discussion of how algorithmic control is instituted and maintained in law enforcement and migration environments.
Petra Molnar, the author of Technological Testing Grounds and co-author of Bots at the Gate, will discuss the ways in which refugees and immigrants are used to test automated decision-making systems.
Kate Robertson, co-author of To Surveil and Predict, will explain the ways in which predictive policing practices are utilized in Canada and the larger implications of the broad use of such technologies.
The talks will be followed by a question and answer. If interested, the full reports can be read at:
- https://ihrp.law.utoronto.ca/sites/default/files/media/IHRP-Automated-Systems-Report-Web.pdf
- https://edri.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Technological-Testing-Grounds.pdf
- https://citizenlab.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/To-Surveil-and-Predict.pdf
Fall 2020
Hints and Tips for Passing the Canadian Basic/Advance Operation Drone Pilot Exams (Workshop)
September 22, 2020 | 11:00AM – 12:00PM
Instructed by Jimmy Tran, this workshop is designed to help interested researchers with assistance for preparing for the Basic or Advance Operation Drone Pilot Exam. This is not a course, but rather a guide on where to obtain some of the materials for the exam, with strategies and how to prepare.
Project Management for Graduate Student Research Design (Workshop)
September 30, 2020 | 11:00AM – 12:00PM
Working on small or large-scale projects, and have no idea how to start? Work with Tanya Pobuda, a fellow graduate student who is also a Project Management Institute-certified Project Management Professional (PMP), to learn some of the basic principles of project management to help you supercharge your productivity and get stuff done.
Grant Writing for Graduate Students (Workshop)
October 5 and 6, 2020 | 1:00 – 2:30PM
An introduction to grant writing for academic proposals, arts-based poposals and journalist project proposals. Led by Nathaniel Brunt, this small and interactive practical workshop will involve informal lecture by the instructor and short presentations by participants, over the course of two sessions.
Session 1 (Oct 5): A general overview on the “how to” of grant writing: creating a pitch, strategies, technique, writing with clarity, purpose and understanding audience.
Session 2 (optional, Oct 6): An interactive session in which students come prepared to present their project proposals to the group for critique. Building on Session 1, students will workshop their proposals to each other, and through discussion, share insights about each other’s work, identify vulnerabilities in the work, and ultimately strengthen their proposals for grant submission.
Intervening Into Facial Recognition Technologies (Talk/Presentation)
October 9, 2020 | 10:00 – 11:30AM
This talk will discuss Jae Seo and Aaron Tucker‘s collaborative work centred on making facial recognition technologies more transparent and understandable, while also providing toolkits to intervene into the technology.
Introduction to 3D Design for Prototyping (Workshop)
October 22, 2020 | 1:00 – 2:30PM
Led by Jimmy Tran, this short workshop will introduce neophytes to 3D design software. Participants will learn the basics of 3D design for 3D printing for prototyping purposes. This workshop will introduce the concept of designing something to be made with 3D printing and other methods of fabrication.
Capture Your World: Method 3D Scanning (Talk/Presentation)
October 28, 2020 | 1:00 – 2:00PM
Jimmy Tran presents a survey of various methods of scanning real world environment and objects to create digital 3D models. This is an introduction to the technologies that are either currently available or being developed at the Collaboratory. Examples of these technologies include: photogrammetry, stereo camera, Arctic Spider, structured light camera, and LiDAR.
3D Development for the Looking Glass Holographic Display (Workshop)
November 4, 2020 | 11:00AM – 12:30PM
This session will provide an overview of Holographic Display Technology and how to develop for a Looking Glass Holographic Display. Led by Michael Carter-Arlt, this session is divided in three parts: focusing on the overview of holographic display tech; focusing on 3D optimizing techniques using Blender; and development techniques using the Unity Game Engine. Targeted for beginners, this session will focus on basic principles of 3D modelling as well as basic program UI navigation.
Create Your Own Holograms for Education (Workshop)
November 18, 2020 | 1:00 – 2:00PM
Learn how to create holograms with tools you already have around the house, and free software online. Learn how to bring your ideas to life to delight students and conference attendees. Add some fun into your classrooms and conference presentations with holograms. Led by Tanya Pobuda, this quickstart overview to holograms will give you a step-by-step guide to create holograms, with an opportunity to dive deeper in future sessions.
Selected Topics in WebAR (Talk/Presentation)
November 24, 2020 | 11:00AM – 12:30PM
Jae Seo and Michael Carter-Arlt will talk about their experiences of using Web-based Augmented Reality (WebAR) for the “Remastered” Exhibition at the Aga Khan Museum. WebAR is a new way of viewing AR content without the need for downloading native applications. This session will feature an overview of AR, and cover such topics such as current trends in AR, pros and cons of AR versus WebAR, and future directions of AR in the future. Currently availble WebAR platform will also be analyzed. Recent Master of Digital Media (MDM) graduate Eileen Xue will also join the session to discuss her WebAR graduate research.
Build Your Own Creative Portfolio Using WordPress (Workshop)
December 2, 2020 | 1:00PM – 2:00PM
Have creative projects you want to share with the scholarly community and industry contacts? Learn how to build your own portfolio site in this easy overview. Tanya Pobuda and Cristina Pietropaolo will take you through the basics of using WordPress themes, so you’ll be able to build a starter website for your teaching dossier, creative projects or professional resume.
Spring – Summer 2020
Introduction to Building an Immersive Environment in Virtual Reality
May 26, 2020 | 1:00 – 4:00PM
Facilitated by Nick Fox-Gieg, this workshop is introduction to learning to develop a Virtual Reality (VR) environment. The workshop will provide instruction on developing an immersive environment, for which digital assets/3D models can be imported into. Participants will learn fundamentals of VR development, and how to implement tools to allow users to navigate and explore a VR environment.
* This session is open to Ryerson faculty and graduate students. Beginners welcome, no experience necessary.
Virtual Board Gaming on Tabletopia: Santorini Edition!
May 29, 2020 | 1:00 – 2:00 PM
This is a fast, fun, friendly game of abstract strategy with the theme of building towers on the legendary Greek island of the game’s name in the southern Aegean Sea. You’ll play as Greek gods and goddesses building towers on this beautiful island. Build the tallest tower before everyone else, and you win the game!
Created by Dr. Gordon Hamilton, Santorini takes only minutes to learn. This game is a quick and easy way to learn the online, board game platform, Tabletopia. Play games with friends no matter where they are in the world. Beginners welcome, no experience necessary. Space is limited.
* This session is open to the Ryerson community. Sign up for a free Tabletopia account to participate in this session.
Introduction to Adobe Lightroom for Post-Production
June 11, 2020 | 11:00AM – 12:00PM
Facilitated by Nathaniel Brunt, this introductory session will explore some of the important functions and applications of Adobe Lightroom, particularly for photographic post-production. The hour long workshop will provide attendees with a basic understanding of the software’s interface, modules, and tools for use in photographic post-production and archive management. The workshop will be followed by a short Q&A.
Writing the Story of Your Research for Audio
June 18, 2020 | 11:00AM – 12:00PM
Ever thought about the different kinds of ways you could present your graduate research? Seeking a creative outlet, but don’t want to get too derailed? Podcasts and radio features require a different kind of narrative, one that can even lead you to reexamine your research or understand it from another perspective. Participants will learn about telling the engaging story of research and writing for audio, and adapting from their academic writing. Facilitated by Cristina Pietropaolo, this session will be 45 minutes, with time at the end for Q&A and discussion. Based on interest, a second part may later be scheduled, focusing on technical production.
Virtual Board Gaming on Tabletopia: Dice Throne Edition!
June 26, 2020 | 1:00 – 2:00PM
This month’s session is a fast-paced, battle arena, dice-throwing game called Dice Throne. Think Yahtzee but with sorcerers, and barbarians and vampires and monks.
Each game of Dice Throne lasts roughly 20 minutes. You can play with one other player or create teams of three and play with up to 6 players. In the learning game, you’ll play as either a Moon Elf or fierce Barbarian to learn the basics. You’ll learn how to use dice combos and clever strategies to defeat your opponent. You’ll also learn the history of Dice Throne, a game idea whose designer wanted to raise $15,000 and wound up making $1818,000 in 30 days.
During this session, you’ll learn how to navigate Tabletopia, an online board game platform, with more than 900+ tabletop titles. Play old favourites or the hottest new titles with friends and family all over the world.
Wikipedia Edit-a-thon
July 8 | 3:00 – 4:00PM
Join librarians, library staff and students on our quest to edit Wikipedia and make it better. The July 8 event provides time for those interested in learning to edit, as well as anyone looking to renew rusty editing skills. Participants are free to chat, breakout into virtual rooms to work on a page together, or just quietly work away on their own with quick assistance available in the zoom window. A quick crash course for those new to Wikipedia will be provided in a breakout room. More information.
Drones for Research: Canadian Laws & Regulations
July 16, 2020 | 1:00 – 2:00PM
A short workshop on Canadian Laws and Regulations for flying Remotely Piloted Aircrafts (RPAs)/drones and how to be certified. Jimmy Tran and Dan Jakubek will take participants through Canadian laws and regulations so researchers may learn how to legally safely use drones for their research. Some applications of drones in research projects will also be presented.
Art in Motion: Basic Animation Techniques for Creating 2D & 3D Cinematics
July 21, 2020 | 11:00AM – 12:30PM
Led by Michael Carter-Arlt, this workshop will focus on using Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, AfterEffects and PremierePro to create 2D cinemagraphs of paintings and 3D cinemagraphs of still photography. Participants will be guided through the process of transforming paintings into basic animations, as well as show how video can be edited with still photography to create animated gifs used in animated photography. The goal of the workshop is for participants to be able to enhance their already existing content, and to provide them with alternative methods of creating augmented content.
Wikipedia Edit-a-thon: Indigenizing Wikipedia
July 22 | 3:00 – 4:30PM
Join librarians, library staff and students on our quest to edit Wikipedia and make it better. In the spirit of the work of Daniel Heath Justice who began a 2015 Twitter campaign to share the names of Indigenous writers, this month we are extending that work to Wikipedia. We will be working to improve Wikipedia articles about Indigenous artists, musicians, storytellers, historians, organizers (and yes, writers!) to push back against the Western/Northern/Eurocentric focus of Wikipedia. Featuring a special presentation at the top of the session by Jeremie Caribou, this an opportunity to get behind the scenes with Wikipedia. Even a tiny edit can make Wikipedia that much better.
Participants are free to chat, breakout into virtual rooms to work on a page together, or just quietly work away on their own with quick assistance available in the zoom window. A quick crash course for those new to Wikipedia will be provided in a breakout room. You can check out the Wiki Meetup page here.
Creating an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Chatbot
July 23 | 2:00 – 3:00PM
This quick start session will show you the basics of creating a chatbot from the Amazon Web Services (AWS) portfolio of tools, including Amazon Lex. Learn the basics and discuss the psychological and sociological implications of UX copywriting in this provocative quick-start training session.
Virtual Board Gaming: Santorini Edition! (Again!)
July 30, 2020 | 1:00 – 2:00PM
According to a 2017 study conducted by the University of Central Florida, playing games has been correlated to a reduction in cognitive fatigue. Join the Collaboratory team for virtual board gaming over Tabletopia. Learn how to play some of the world’s most popular board games and discuss the core mechanics of these games in a fun, informal discussion of board games, game design, and university or grad school life.
Introduction to 3D Design for 3D Prototyping
August 12, 2020 | 11:00AM – 12:00PM
Jimmy Tran will lead a short workshop introducing 3D design software. Participants will learn basics of 3D design for 3D printing for prototyping purposes. This workshop will introduce the concept of designing something to be made with 3D printing or some other method of fabrication
Build Your Own Creative Portfolio with WordPress
August 18, 2020 | 3:00 – 3:45PM
Have creative projects you want to share with the scholarly community and industry contacts? Learn how to build your own portfolio site in this quick and easy 45-minute overview with Tanya Pobuda. Using WordPress themes, you’ll be able to build a starter website for either your teaching dossier, creative projects or professional resume, for free.
This open to the Ryerson community. Beginners welcome, no experience necessary. Space is limited.
Virtual Board Gaming: Paperback Edition!
August 27, 2020 | 1:00 – 2:00PM
According to a 2017 study conducted by the University of Central Florida, playing games has been correlated to a reduction in cognitive fatigue. Join the Collaboratory team for virtual board gaming over Tabletopia. Learn how to play some of the world’s most popular board games and discuss the core mechanics of these games in a fun, informal discussion of board games, game design, and grad school life.