CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Dr. Noorin Manji, PhD
Languages: English (complete fluency); French (partial fluency)
Current Position: Assistant Professor
Business Address: Faculty of Arts, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, N2L 3G1
Departments: Arts First; Global Business and Digital Arts; Sociology and Legal Studies
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
2018 Ph.D. Sociology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
2010 M.A. Sociology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario
2009 Hon. B.A. Sociology/Anthropology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario
2005 International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, Weston C.I., Toronto, Ontario
2005 OSSD Diploma, Weston C.I., Toronto, Ontario
AREAS OF ACADEMIC INTEREST
Doctoral Dissertation Title: Love in the Time of Caller ID: Understanding the Role of Smartphone Technology in Committed Relationships [Committee Members: Dr. Lorne Dawson; Dr. Janice Aurini; Dr. John Mclevey; Dr. Toni Serafini; Dr. Anabel Quan-Haase]
Substantive Areas of Expertise/Interest: Digital Culture, Technology, Identity, Professional Communication + Specialty in Classical & Contemporary Social Theory
Theoretical Approaches: Social Constructionism, Symbolic Interactionism, Social Psychology
Methodological Preference: Qualitative Research
TECHNICAL PROFICIENCIES
Microsoft Tools - Word, Excel, Powerpoint, and Teams: Highly Experienced
Google Drive - Docs, Sheets, Forms, Slides, and GClassroom: Highly Experienced
LEARN Online System, including remote learning tools: Highly Experienced
TopHat Online Learning/Teaching Platform: Highly Experienced
Adobe Photoshop & Bridge: Moderately Experienced
Final Cut Pro: Moderately Experienced
Endnote: Moderately Experienced
NVivo: Moderately Experienced
SPSS: Moderately Experienced
Slack: Moderately Experienced
ACADEMIC & ENTREPRENEURIAL EXPERIENCE -
TEACHING, RESEARCH, PUBLICATIONS, AND EDITORIAL
TEACHING
September 2014- Present
Love of Language
Co-Founder, Owner, Curriculum Creator, Instructor
Curriculum Design & Teaching:
- Created a multi-level language arts curriculum for students in grades 5-12 to enhance fundamental aspects of LA performance including vocabulary, reading comprehension, basic & advanced grammar, essay writing, public speaking, news & media literacy, literary analysis, professional development, etc.
- Developed curriculum from 10+ years of private one-on-one tutoring experience
- Regularly update and refine curriculum content and new administrative program materials including, but not limited to, yearly class schedules and course/level calendars, annual registration forms, and yearly Love of Language scholarship materials
- Evaluate entrance tests to best help students and their families navigate available program levels for optimal enrollment and progress
- Instruct 90-minute classes for multiple class sections, spread over 3 learning levels, weekly, in which technology and interactive delivery methods are used as a way to motivate student learning and interest
- Facilitate the execution of both in-person and online classes, particularly in response to new changes resulting from COVID-19 and social distancing restrictions
- Regularly engage with students during one-on-one meetings to direct individualized learning, providing feedback and guidance for personalized growth
- Oversee all student email communication, responding to any and all student inquiries related to: homework questions, missed classes/content, reference letters, among many other requests
- Produce highly detailed term-by-term progress reports and report cards to provide students and their families with consistent feedback
- Develop weekly teaching plans and instructional notes to guide program instructors - Supervise the work of 10+ Instructors, Teaching Assistants & Instructor Aids, providing feedback for improvement, and letters of reference when required
Business Management, Marketing, and Other Duties:
- Oversee all employee interviewing, hiring, contract writing, and contract renewal
- Developed baseline website framework, and regularly update website with new and relevant content
- Produce all marketing material including, but not limited to: company logo(s), business cards, flyers, pamphlets, promotional videos, etc.
- Prepare for and attend relevant events, conferences, and information sessions to maximize exposure and program enrollment
- Engage new contacts through consistent and effective posting of promotional content via social media networks like Facebook and Instagram
- Work collaboratively with business partner to make all financial decisions related to operation and management
- Link to Program Information Session Recording: https://youtu.be/q090UTudCE8
- Current Program Enrollment: 120+ students
- Program Website: www.loveoflanguage.ca
September 2024-June 2027
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Assistant Professor
- Teach a wide variety of undergraduate Arts courses at all levels - first, second, third, and fourth year, specialization in theory courses
- Support student success by meeting with them, providing guidance, and letters of reference, as requested
- Participate in program-level, department-level, faculty-level, and institutional-level activities to promote development of multiple communities
- Engage in service activities as a faculty member of the university, serving on a variety of committees and working groups
September 2023-April 2024
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Lecturer, Cannabis Culture -
Information and Analysis (ARTS140) [2 Terms In-Person]
[F2023-3 Sections]; [W2024-2 Sections]
- Developed a course based on recent secondary research gathered from the academic databases related to the study of cannabis and its surrounding culture
- Formulated course design to align with Arts First program objectives, intended to cultivate information and analysis skills for first year arts students
- Based course design on best practices using a wide variety of learning tools, both online and in-person
- Created a wide variety of course deliverables that allowed students to feel connected to their peers and myself, as their instructor, and to maintain student engagement and involvement in the course
- Worked collaboratively with colleagues and campus-wide services/resources, including, but not limited to: UW’s Writing and Communication Center, UW’s Library liaisons, Arts First Peer Tutors, and others
- Cultivated opportunities for student success by connecting them to resources they need in order to do well, and by building ‘scaffolded’ assignments, providing them regular feedback and guidance
- Attended and participated in regular Arts First workshops intended to explore emerging resources and to create standardization across all offerings of ARTS 140/130 courses
- Addressed student concerns via online and in-person meetings
- Completed all grading of course work, providing students with ample constructive feedback for improvement
- Overall instructor rating Fall 2023: 4.9/5
- Overall instructor rating Winter 2024: 4.7/5
September 2021-December 2023
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Lecturer, Special Topics in Digital Cultures –
Thought & Theory in Digital Culture (GBDA412) [3 Terms – Online and In-Person]
[F2021 – 1 Section]; [F2022 – 1 Section]; [F2023 – 2 Sections]
- Developed this special topics course based on findings from a recent iteration of my research that focuses on the role of smartphones in people’s lives and relationships
- Built two versions of the course: a remote, asynchronous version of the course for online delivery and an in person version, ensuring the core goals of the GBDA program were met, particularly emphasizing new forms of digital cultural expression in a global context
- Prepared exciting, vibrant lectures to encourage and maintain student interest in and engagement with the material
- Created course deliverables with a strong hands-on focus that helped students hone both, their individual strengths and weaknesses, and their collaborative abilities
- Help cultivate a strong sense of community for students through regular interactions with their peers, the course TA, and myself
- Addressed student concerns via e-mail and meetings
- Complete grading of some course work, providing students with ample constructive feedback for improvement
- Oversee the additional grading of the course Teaching Assistant
- Link to sample lecture (remote sections): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRPJlyquJSc
- Overall instructor rating Fall 2021: 4.5/5
- Overall instructor rating Fall 2022: 4.1/5
- Overall instructor rating Fall 2023: 4.7/5
September 2020-April 2023
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Lecturer, Mobile Technology & Society -
Information and Analysis (ARTS140) [7 Terms – Online and In-Person]
[F2020-2 Sections]; [W2021-3 Sections]; [S2021-1 Section]; [F2021-3 Sections] [W2022-1 Section]; [F2022-2 Sections] [W2023-2 Sections]
- Developed a course based on my doctoral dissertation research that focused on the role of modern mobile technology, such as smartphones, in people’s relationships
- Formulated course design to align with both, my research findings, and with the objectives outlined by the Arts First Program, intended to cultivate information and analysis skills for first year arts students
- Based course design on best practices related to remote, asynchronous, online course delivery, making use of a wide variety of online learning tools via UW-LEARN including, but not limited to: Bongo video assignments, Webex, discussion boards, etc.
- Transitioned content previously offered remotely to in-person modalities
- Created a wide variety of course deliverables that allowed students to feel connected to their peers and myself, as their instructor, and to maintain student engagement and involvement in the course
- Recorded/delivered weekly lectures to guide students through course content
- Worked collaboratively with colleagues and campus-wide services/resources, including, but not limited to: UW’s Writing and Communication Center, UW’s Library liaisons, Arts First Peer Tutors, and others
- Cultivated opportunities for student success by connecting them to resources they need in order to do well, and by building ‘scaffolded’ assignments, providing them regular feedback and guidance
- Attended and participated in regular Arts First workshops intended to explore emerging resources and to create standardization across all offerings of ARTS 140/130 courses
- Addressed student concerns via online and in-person meetings
- Completed all grading of course work, providing students with ample constructive feedback for improvement
- Link to sample lecture from remote sections: https://youtu.be/i4kcYSKSsIQ
- Overall instructor rating Fall 2020: 4.5/5
- Overall instructor rating Winter 2021: 4.7/5
- Overall instructor rating Spring 2021: 4.7/5
- Overall instructor rating Fall 2021: 4.8/5
- Overall instructor rating Winter 2022: 4.8/5
- Overall instructor rating Fall 2022: 4.7/5
- Overall instructor rating Winter 2023: 4.8/5
September 2022-December 2022
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Lecturer, Introduction to Digital Culture (GBDA203) [2 Sections – In-Person]
- Worked collaboratively with Course Coordinator to transition online materials from previous remote delivery of the course to content better suited for in-person delivery
- Developed highly engaging, discourse and activity-based lectures on varying topics related to digital culture with themes such as media bias, surveillance, inequality, etc.
- Aided in the creation of various course deliverables, customized grading rubrics, and detailed guides and marking instructions
- Oversaw the grading work and contributions of the assigned teaching assistant (TA)
- Established a strong sense of community for students through regular interactions with their peers, the course TA, and myself
- Fostered community connections and oversaw the inclusion of material from 2 Guest Lecturers – 1 from industry and 1 from government/academia – to ensure students were being exposed to a variety of content reflective of the breadth of elements included in the course focus on digital culture
- Addressed student concerns via online platforms and in-person meetings
- Complete grading of some course work, providing students with ample constructive feedback for improvement
- Overall instructor rating: 4.7/5
January 2021-August 2022
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Sessional Professor, Special Topics in Sociology (SOC430) -
Mobile Technology and Modern Life [4 Online Terms]
[Winter 2021 – 1 Section]; [Fall 2021 – 1 Section]; [Winter 2022 – 1 Section]; [Spring 2022 – 1 Section]
- Created an interactive and engaging 4th year seminar course based on my doctoral dissertation research that focused on the role of modern mobile technology, such as smartphones, in people’s relationships
- Developed the remote, asynchronous course design primarily using the TopHat online platform to facilitate student engagement and emulate an in-person seminar course environment, with additional online learning tools through UW-LEARN
- Formulated the course content to align with the original research findings and with the course objectives
- Guided students through their time using new online learning platforms and through a wide variety of course deliverables including, but not limited to: creative conceptions, peer projects, and round table discussions, among many others
- Recorded weekly videos to deliver lecture material and help orient students through course content
- Worked collaboratively with TopHat platform specialists to enhance student experience and interaction with their peers and myself throughout the course
- Addressed student concerns via e-mail and online meetings
- Completed all grading of course work, providing students with ample constructive feedback and guidance for improvement with the goal of orienting them towards success in the course
- Link to sample lecture: https://youtu.be/oW3TD9wIk-g
- Overall instructor rating Winter 2021: 5/5
- Overall instructor rating Fall 2021: 5/5
- Overall instructor rating Winter 2022: 5/5
- Overall instructor rating Spring 2022: 4.8/5
May 2021-August 2022
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Sessional Professor, Introduction to Sociology (SOC101) [2 Online Terms]
[Spring 2021 – 1 Section]; [Spring 2022 – 1 Section]
- Prepared a remote, asynchronous online version of this introductory course to welcome students to UW and to UW’s Department of Sociology & Legal Studies
- Designed the course with a wide variety of learning styles in mind to best help students achieve success by the end of the term
- Made primary use of UW-LEARN as the main platform through which course content was delivered including, but not limited to, weekly course announcements to guide students and keep them on track; engaging lecture videos to ensure students feel connected to the course and to me as their instructor; a wide variety of different assignments and evaluations to ensure students maintain engagement and achieve strong grade outcomes
- Oversaw the work of two course T.A.s who primarily facilitated the marking of course deliverables by providing them with regular guidance and instruction documents and by consistently meeting with them to ensure all of us worked collaboratively to deliver a cohesive course to the students enrolled
- Addressed student concerns via e-mail and online meetings
- Link to sample lecture: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E62cnAEm0eY
- Overall instructor rating Spring 2021: 4.8/5
- Overall instructor rating Spring 2022: 4.5/5
January 2022-April 2022
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Sessional Professor, Global Digital Project 2 (GBDA302) [3 Sections – Online & In- Person]
- Planned, developed and executed a project-based course to best help 3rd year Global Business and Digital Arts students enhance their prowess in various areas of expertise including, but not limited to, ideation, digital design, business and industry environment analysis, secondary and primary research, product prototyping, marketing, and others
- Developed both in-person and remote course environments through which students could engage with content through hands-on activities in order to maximize practical application of course experiences to professional development (2 sections in person, 1 section online)
- Oversee the work of multiple course TAs, with particular focus on the grading of regular course deliverables with requirements for high levels of detailed feedback on students’ key deliverables like design sprints, research reports and plans, product prototypes, team presentations, etc.
- Deliver highly engaging and interactive lectures, both in-person and remotely to maintain connection with students and guide them through course deliverables
- Create clear and valuable course deliverables with detailed instructors, parameters, and rubrics to best help students achieve success both within and beyond the course
- Regularly meet with course TAs and students to help maintain course cohesion and ensure that students, especially, get the individualized guidance they need
- Link to sample lecture: https://youtu.be/oBxQvQlz0OA
- Overall instructor rating: 4.4/5
January 2022-April 2022
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Sessional Professor, Portfolio and Professional Communication (GBDA212)
[2 Online Sections]
- Developed a remote, asynchronous course environment through which students could engage with content through hands-on activities in order to maximize practical application of course experiences to professional development
- Oversee the work of multiple course TAs, with particular focus on the grading of regular course deliverables with requirements for high levels of detailed feedback on students’ key professional assets like resumes, cover letters, design portfolios, interview skills, etc.
- Record highly engaging, but brief videos to maintain connection with students throughout the course and provide them with important insights on how best to navigate significant professional milestones from career planning stages to community building and networking, among others
- Create clear and valuable course deliverables with detailed instructors, parameters, and rubrics to best help students achieve success both within and beyond the course
- Regularly meet with course TAs and students to help maintain course cohesion and ensure that students, especially, get the individualized guidance they need
- Link to sample lecture: https://youtu.be/3kgaPPy1K4M
- Overall instructor rating: 4.9/5
September 2020-April 2022
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Sessional Professor, Classical Sociological Theory (SOC202) [4 Online Terms]
[Fall 2020 Term – 1 Section]; [Winter 2021 Term – 1 Section]; [Fall 2021 – 1 Section]; [Winter 2022 – 1 Section]
- Extended and modified past experiences teaching this course on campus in previous terms to develop a remote, asynchronous version for online delivery
- Recorded engaging and vibrant lecture videos, weekly, to present course material and guide students through relevant content
- Modified previously developed course deliverables for more effective implementation via remote, asynchronous, online evaluations with the goal of maintaining student engagement and participation in the course
- Fostered a sense of connectedness with students through regular points of contact throughout the term
- Addressed student concerns via e-mail and online meetings
- Completed all grading of course work, providing students with ample constructive feedback for improvement
- Link to sample lecture: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANKPCY3Dy7U
- Overall instructor rating Fall 2020: 4.9/5
- Overall instructor rating Winter 2021: 5/5
- Overall instructor rating Fall 2021: 4.9/5
- Overall instructor rating Winter 2022: 4.7/5
September 2021-December 2021
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Sessional Professor, Contemporary Sociological Theory (SOC302) [1 Online Section]
- Reconfigured content from past experience teaching this course on campus in a previous term to develop a remote, asynchronous version for online delivery
- Developed a course design that was engaging and exciting for students, including vibrant lecture videos, hands-on deliverables based on experiential learning, and guest lecturers with unique content, among many other elements
- Ensure a sense of community is established among students by facilitating regular connection points throughout the course
- Addressed student concerns via e-mail and online meetings
- Complete grading of some course work, providing students with ample constructive feedback for improvement
- Oversee the additional grading of the course Teaching Assistant
- Link to sample lecture: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-xi0hAIqAM
- Overall instructor rating: 4.9/5
May 2021-August 2021
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Sessional Professor, Seminar in Contemporary Theory (SOC406) [1 Online Section]
- Developed a highly engaging remote, asynchronous 4th year seminar course with a focus on sociological theories that have emerged since the mid-20th century
- Made use of UW-LEARN as a central platform to connect with students online and promote regular engagement with the goal of closely emulating the in-person seminar course environment
- Regularly engaged with students through consistent interactions via various evaluations designed to appeal to different types of student learners
- Recorded weekly lecture videos to deliver course material and help orient students through course content
- Addressed student concerns via e-mail and online meetings
- Completed all grading of course work, providing students with ample constructive feedback and guidance for improvement with the goal of orienting them towards success in the course
- Link to sample lecture: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ml-GS7hsD3w
- Overall instructor rating: 5/5
January 2020-April 2020
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Sessional Professor, Field Research Methods (SOC/LS 322)[1 In-Person Section]
- Developed the course to help third year Sociology and Legal Studies students understand the key elements of best practice in qualitative research design
- Delivered 170 minute lectures, once a week, and facilitated class discussions & tutorial sessions to best help guide students towards success in the course
- Aided students with concerns regarding course assessments in person or via e-mail
- Instructed and oversaw the work of two teaching assistants
- Responded quickly and effectively to changes resulting from COVID-19 closures/restrictions, by moving all remaining course content to online delivery forms and navigating required adjustments
- Overall instructor rating: 4.4/5
January 2020-April 2020
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Sessional Professor, Research and Analysis Foundations (ARTS 103) [1 In-Person Section]
- Designed the recovery course for Arts undergraduate students, acquiring the approval of Dr. Angela Carter and Dr. Robert Danisch, Directors of UW’s Arts First Program
- Planned and developed material for lectures on the core features of research and analysis that would best help prepare students for their four-year Arts degrees
- Delivered 170 minute lectures, once a week, and facilitated class discussions & tutorial sessions to best help guide students towards success in the course
- Aided students with concerns regarding course assessments in person and via e-mail
- Responded quickly and effectively to changes resulting from COVID-19 closures/restrictions, by moving all remaining course content to online delivery forms and navigating required adjustments
- Overall instructor rating: 5/5
September 2016-December 2019
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Sessional Professor, Classical Sociological Theory (SOC 202) [3 In-Person Terms]
[Winter 2016 – 1 Section]; [Fall 2018 – 1 Section]; [Fall 2019 – 1 Section]
- Planned and developed material for lectures on classical sociological theory
- Delivered highly engaging lectures & facilitated class discussions & tutorial sessions
- Replied to and aided students with concerns regarding exams via in-person meetings or via e-mail
- Developed the course’s assessments and helped students prepare for evaluation expectations
- Oversaw the grading & work of the course teaching assistant
- Overall instructor rating Fall 2016: 4.4/5
- Overall instructor rating Fall 2018: 4.7/5
- Overall instructor rating Fall 2019: 4.8/5
September 2016-December 2016
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Sessional Professor, Contemporary Sociological Theory (SOC 302) [1 In-Person Section] - Planned and developed material for lectures on contemporary sociological theory
- Delivered 50 minute lectures 3 times weekly & facilitated class discussions & tutorial sessions
- Replied to and aided students with concerns regarding exams via in-person meetings or via e-mail
- Oversaw the grading & work of the teaching assistant
- Overall instructor rating: 4/5
September 2010-April 2020
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
Teaching Assistant, Various Courses: SOC101 - Introduction to Sociology; SOC207 - Sociology of Education; SOC243 - Sociology of Occupations; SOC232 - Technology and Society; SOC202 - Classical Sociological Theory; ARBUS200 - Entrepreneurship Principles and Practice; LS101 - Introduction to Legal Studies; ARBUS300 - Practical Business Skills; GBDA402 - Capstone Course; FINE130 - Introduction to Digital Imaging; GBDA404 - Extended E-Portfolio
- Collaborated with course instructor to ensure smooth execution of each course
- Graded student work, providing detailed feedback to maximize student success
- Engaged in grade management across the course for students enrolled
- Contributed to the development, execution, and evaluation of various course deliverables
- Met with students and addressed unique situations on a case-by-case basis
RESEARCH
Research Funding
- Manji, N. (2009). “Idealizing the Idol: Celebrity Culture and Identity Construction in the West.” Amount: $6000, Department of Experiential Education, Faculty of Social Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario.
Research Projects
July 2022
New Frontiers in Research Digital Educator Study
Early Career Researcher Advisory Committee; Principal Investigator – Dr. Ellen MacEachen, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
- Contributed to the preparation and review of the grant proposal materials including the main research proposal, EDI statement, gender-based analysis content, team biographical information, and budgetary breakdown, among other elements
- Applied knowledge and experience from my areas of expertise related to qualitative research methods, digital culture and communication, and both post-secondary and extra-curricular teaching & entrepreneurship
- Worked collaboratively with various team members to complete and perfect the proposal for the study which is aimed at identifying sustainable approaches to digital school teaching that protect the health and well-being of teachers – with particular emphasis on populations in Canada and Bangladesh
- Continue to serve on the study’s advisory committee as the research is in progress, consulting on methodology, data analysis, and other elements
January 2013 – August 2018
Department of Sociology & Legal Studies Doctoral Program Dissertation Research
Principal Investigator; Supervisor – Dr. Lorne Dawson, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
- Designed a qualitative research study, under the supervision of a Doctoral Advisory Committee to study the use of smartphone technology in committed relationships
- Successfully obtained ethics approval from UW’s Research Ethics Board
- Collected, managed, cleaned, organized, and analyzed qualitative data from 56 participant interviews conducted over several months with regular input from and discussion with Doctoral Research Supervisor, Dr. Lorne Dawson
- Wrote multiple drafts of Doctoral Dissertation, which resulted in a nearly 200-page submission to UW-Space
- Successfully defended Doctoral Dissertation to committee in August 2018
August 2013 – October 2013
Aboriginal Tobacco Cessation Pilot Project Evaluation
Research Consultant, Ontario Tobacco Research Unit (OTRU), Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario
- Qualitatively managed, cleaned, organized, and analyzed transcripts through coding and memoing using NVivo
- Wrote multiple drafts of OTRU reports for publication that summarized the data and results of the study
- Participated in and contributed to presentations on study results with Cancer Care Ontario (CCO) & members of the Wikwemikong Aboriginal community
February 2013 - March 2013
Cessation Pathways Project
Research Consultant, Ontario Tobacco Research Unit (OTRU), Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario
- Qualitatively managed, cleaned, organized, and analyzed transcripts through coding and memoing using NVivo
- Selected and wrote several case studies for informational pamphlet on research findings
- Wrote multiple drafts of OTRU reports for publication that summarized the data and results of the study
June 2012
Falls Prevention Strategies Project
Research Consultant, Hamilton Public Health, Hamilton, Ontario
- Organized and led multiple focus groups with members of various health/falls prevention organization in the greater Hamilton area
- Took highly descriptive focus group field notes for report writing
February 2012 - March 2012
Tobacco-Free Taxis & Tobacco-Free Sports & Recreation
Research Consultant, Ontario Tobacco Research Unit (OTRU), Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario
- Collected, managed, cleaned, organized, and analyzed data for multiple projects regarding tobacco-free environments
- Wrote reports & contributed to presentations of findings for publication
May 2009
Undergraduate Student Research Award Project (USRA) $6000
McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario
August 2009 Principal Investigator
- Designed and led my own personal research initiative through literature searches, data collection & analysis, consultation with advising supervisor, and presentation of research findings at USRA poster session
- Title of Project: “Idealizing the Idol: Celebrity Culture and Identity Construction in the West”
December 2008
Podcasting & Automated Response System (Clicker) Initiative
Research Assistant, Principal Investigator - Dr. Tina Fetner, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario
- Analyzed data collected from students related to their experiences using podcasts and automated response systems (ARS, also known as clickers) during large undergraduate lectures as a tool for learning
- Worked with the data sets of responses from over 1000 undergraduate students to an extensive survey and questionnaire
- Developed analytical summary outputs such as infographics and bar graphs, among others, working with both qualitative and quantitative data
May 2008 - August 2008
Automated Response System Initiative
Research Assistant, Principal Investigators - Swanson, C. & Behnke-Cook, D., McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario
- Explored academic & non-academic literature sources to compose an annotated bibliography
- Input, managed, cleaned, and analyzed large data sets using programs: Excel, SPSS, NVIVO, Endnote
- Transcribed focus group material; created a presentation for annual qualitative conference
September 2007 - April 2008
Mother-Infant Uganda Project
Research Assistant, Principal Investigator - Dr. Susan Watt, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario
- Conducted extensive literature searches for both academic and non-academic resources with a high degree of learned selectivity
- Helped build, organize and manage resource database to develop curriculum for teaching in Uganda, Africa
May 2007 -April 2008
Podcasting Initiative
Research Assistant, Principal Investigator - Dr. Susan Vajoczki, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario
- Managed and analyzed large data set using programs such as Excel, SPSS, and NVIVO - Conducted literature searches online and in archival libraries
- Organized and implemented data review sessions, presentations, brain-storming, and focus group sessions
PUBLICATIONS
Book Chapters
- Manji, N. (2022). Smartphones and Committed Relationships: Navigating the Intersection of Sex, Gender, and Other Social Variables. In J.J. Fellows & L. Smith (Eds.), Gender, Sex, and Tech!: An Intersectional Feminist Guide (pp. 121-144). Canadian Scholars Women’s Press.
Non-Refereed Publications
- Hoffman, D.C., Leroux, C.L., and Manji, N. (2012). “From the Editors: The Canadian Graduate Journal of Sociology and Criminology’s Inaugural Issue.” Canadian Graduate Journal of Sociology and Criminology, 1(1), 1 – 3.
- Hoffman, D.C., Leroux, C.L., and Manji, N. (2013). “Editors’ Note.” Canadian Graduate Journal of Sociology and Criminology, 2 (1), 1 – 4.
Reports
- McCloy, C., Kirst, M., Haji, F., Manji, N., Dubray, J., Ferrence, R., & Shwartz, R. (2012). “Risk-Based Enforcement Pilot Update: Hamilton Problem-Solving/Community Engagement Pilot Final Report.” Toronto: Ontario Tobacco Research Unit, University of Toronto.
- Kirst, M., Manji, N., Andrews, J., DiSante, E., Babayan, A., Chaiton, M., Schwartz, R. (2013). “Cessation Pathways: Exploring Opportunities for Developing a Coordinated Smoking Cessation System In Ontario.” Toronto: Ontario Tobacco Research Unit, University of Toronto.
EDITORIAL
May - August 2018
The Kidnomics Book Series (Author: Dr. Radha Maharaj)
Editor
- Worked in tandem with Dr. Maharaj to produce high quality children’s literature in the area of economics, with a focus on budgeting, saving, and financial planning
- Provided deep editing packages for multiple books in the Kidnomics series by engaging in in-depth, systematic editing and proofreading processes with the goal of improving the quality of writing and effectiveness of concept communication
November 2017
The Canadian Graduate Journal of Sociology and Criminology (CGJSC)
Peer Reviewer
- Completed a blind peer review of a potential article submitted to the journal
- Conducted a comprehensive review in terms of methodological approach, analytical insights & structure, grammar & clarity of writing, among other elements
- Provided a decision on behalf of the journal about the status of the article moving forth
October 2011 - May 2014
The Canadian Graduate Journal of Sociology and Criminology (CGJSC)
Founding Editor & Editor-in-Chief
- Worked with colleagues, department representatives, and technical staff to create and establish a working identity for the journal – including website, email, pamphlets, department packages, journal banner, branding, etc.
- Performed editorial and supervisory tasks related to the publication of an online, scholarly and peer-reviewed journal
- Aided in the management of financial activity of the journal, including grant solicitation and applications resulting in the obtainment of approximately $3500 in funding throughout 2012
- Forged working liaisons with diverse Sociology, Criminology, and other Social Science departments across Canada, resulting in the formation of a fourteen-member faculty advisory board representing five provinces
- Hired and trained staff (assistant editors and copy editors) to aid in the regular maintenance of the journal
PRESENTATION CONTRIBUTIONS AND SYMPOSIA
- Manji, N. (2023). Best Practices for Student Success in Arts First Courses. Arts First Pre-Fall Term Orientation Week Student Panel, Faculty of Arts, University of Waterloo, September 5.
- Manji, N. (2023). GBDA Sample Lecture. UW Spring Open House, Faculty of Arts, University of Waterloo, March 18.
- Manji, N. (2022). Best Practices for Student Engagement in Arts First Courses. Arts First Pre-Term Winter Workshop, Faculty of Arts, University of Waterloo, Virtual Event, October 12.
- Manji, N. (2022). Love of Language (LOL) Information Night Panel. Virtual Delivery, June 6.
- Manji, N. (2021). Mobile Technology & Human Relationships: Research Meets Pedagogy. Work-in-Progress Seminar, University of Waterloo - The Stratford School, Stratford, Ontario, October 25.
- Manji, N. (2021). Navigating and Improving Intraorganizational Trust at the CNSC. Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, Virtual Delivery, July 15.
- Manji, N. (2021) Love of Language (LOL) Information Night Panel. Virtual Delivery, May 10.
- Manji, N. (2020).[1 of 3 Panelists] Charting Your Path: Graduate Alumni Panel (PhD). University of Waterloo, Virtual Event, November 13.
- Manji, N. (2020). Smartphones and Committed Relationships: Movement Towards a New Theoretical Model. Qualitative Analysis Conference, Brescia University College, London, Ontario, June 24-26. [Abstract accepted, event cancelled due to COVID-19 Shutdowns.]
- Manji, N. (2020). Career Fair Presentation. Virtual Delivery, Aylesbury Public School, June 5.
- Manji N. (2020). Love of Language (LOL) Information Night Presentation. Virtual Delivery, May 11.
- Manji, N. & Valani, Y. (2018).(LOL) Program Presentation. Numeracy & Beyond Parent Conference, Mississauga Secondary School, Mississauga, Ontario, March 24.
- Manji, N. & Valani, Y. (2017). Love of Language (LOL) Volunteer Recruitment Presentation. University of Toronto Mississauga Get Experience Volunteer Fair, Mississauga, Ontario, September 13.
- Manji, N. & Valani, Y. (2017). Love of Language (LOL) Program Presentation. Numeracy & Beyond Parent Conference, Mississauga Secondary School, Mississauga, Ontario, April 1.
- Manji, N. & Valani, Y. (2016). Love of Language (LOL) Program Presentation. Numeracy & Beyond Parent Conference, Rick Hansen Secondary School, Mississauga, Ontario, April 2.
- Manji, N.(2015). Love in the Time of Caller ID: Understanding the Role of Technology in Romantic Relationships. 3-Minute Thesis Competition, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, March 16.
- Manji, N. (2014). Love in the Time of Caller ID: Understanding the Role of Technology in Romantic Relationships. Qualitative Analysis Conference, Brescia College, London, Ontario, June 25-27.
- Hofmann, D., T. Ireland, C. Leroux-Demir, & Manji, N. (2014). Launching a Dream: Creating an Open-Access Peer Reviewed Journal. Ontario Library Association Super Conference, Metro Toronto Convention Center, Toronto, Ontario, January 30.
- Manji, N. (2012). Challenges, Advantages, and Uses of Cellular Phones: Involvements, Identities & Insights. Couch-Stone Symposium by the Society for the Study of Symbolic Interaction, Northwestern University Evanston, Illinois, April 20 – 22.
- Manji, N. (2011). Challenges, Advantages, and Uses of Cellular Phones: Involvements, Identities & Insights. University of Waterloo Graduate Student Research Conference, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, April 25.
- Manji, N. (2009). Idealizing the Idol: Celebrity Culture and Identity Construction in the West. McMaster Undergraduate Student Research Award Poster Session, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, November 11.
- Swanson, C. & Behnke-Cook, D. (2008). Automated Response System Initiative at McMaster. Qualitative Research Conference, Nova Scotia, Canada, May 20. (C. Swanson and D. Behnke-Cook, Presenters).
- Vajoczki, S. (2007). Social Science Podcasting Initiative at McMaster. McGraw-Hill Teaching, Learning & Technology Conference, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, November 18. (S. Vajoczki, Presenter).
ADDITIONAL ACADEMIC/PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & CONTRIBUTIONS
October 2022-Present
Curriculum Committee, Stratford School of Interaction Design and Business, University of Waterloo
Committee Member
- Attend regular committee meetings in which various curriculum-related issues and goals are explored and discussed, for example grade inflation and course ordering
- Identify observations in provided data and contribute personal insights based on my experience as an instructor and curriculum creator
- Collaborate with various committee members to determine best steps forward in improving curriculum design and implementation at the Stratford School
March 2021-Present
Waterloo Women Leading Academia (WWLA), University of Waterloo
Mentor
- Worked with WWLA program coordinators to sign up for and be matched with a mentee – a current female PhD student at the University of Waterloo
- Collaborated with mentee to schedule and attend regular virtual meetings to discuss her graduate studies progress and next steps for her professional development
- Motivated mentee by guiding and encouraging her through manageable steps with the purpose of helping her navigate her own academic and professional goals
November 2022, March 2023, November 2023, March 2024
University of Waterloo Open House (Fall & Spring)
Representative for Global Business and Digital Arts
- Delivered a sample lecture of GBDA course content to prospective students
- Attended the Open House to greet and guide prospective students through UW’s Stratford campus and the undergraduate and graduate programs available, including Global Business and Digital Arts (GBDA) and Master of Digital Experience Innovation (MDEI)
- Worked in collaboration with staff and other faculty members to best address questions from prospective students and their families on a wide range of topics including, but not limited to, program curriculum, campus life, living accommodations, co-op and work experience, etc.
September 2022-April 2023
Mentorship Program, Stratford, Ontario, Stratford School of Interaction Design and Business, University of Waterloo
Mentee (Mentor: Tabatha Dominguez)
- Organize and attend regular mentorship meetings, minimum 3 per academic term, in which my mentor and I work collaboratively to reflect on my progress as a budding academic and new faculty member
- Take initiative to identify concrete goals and timelines to work towards in my short- and long-term career/life plan, with particular emphasis on maximizing the benefits gained from mentor insight and feedback
September 2022-December 2022
Data for Equity (D4E) Working Group, Data Strategy and Policy Unit, Ministry of Children, Community & Social Services (MCCSS)
Contributor
- Attended regular collaboration sessions in which various stakeholders meet and work through ministry goals to achieve better data governance practices
- Contributed via online working group sessions and via a designated collaboration site to help identify best practices and approaches to collecting data equitably, particularly from data hesitant groups such as various Indigenous populations
September 7, 2021
Workshop: Considerations for Decolonizing Your Classroom, Virtual coordination Workshop Attendee
- Attended the virtual workshop in which Erin Hodson, a member of the Indigenous community of Canada, delivered an interactive talk to aid post-secondary instructors in considering processes of decolonization that could facilitate more inclusive learning environments
- Engaged with the presenter and other workshop attendees in brainstorming and discussing tangible ways in which decolonization goals could be met within the particular parameters of both on-campus and online classroom environments