Red Deer Polytechnic hosts Third Annual Research Showcase

Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) continues to recognize and celebrate its culture of creative activity and research by hosting the Third Annual Research Showcase.

“The Research Showcase demonstrated the innovative research that is initiated by students, faculty and staff from a variety of disciplines across our institution, providing significant impact for learners, RDP and communities across Alberta,” says Lindsay Engel, Vice President, Academic and Student Experience. “As a polytechnic institution, we are committed to growing our scholarly and applied research capacity to solve real-world challenges.”

This year, the Polytechnic’s Research Showcase featured 53 poster displays and presentations about diverse subjects. Two concurrent sessions, which included topics in science, technology, humanities and skilled trades, enhanced the experiences of attendees. 

Dr. Anomi Bearden, RDP Psychology instructor, was the keynote speaker. She shared her research about how applying social and positive psychology promotes well-being. Dr. Bearden also spoke about the benefits of collaborative applied research for a range of partners, which includes promoting work-integrated learning and future opportunities for students.

“RDP's Research Showcase is invaluable to students, providing opportunities to explore many paths of academia. It allows students to enhance their communication skills as they present their findings to an engaged audience,” says Amanda Brouwer, Vice President Academic, Students’ Association of Red Deer Polytechnic. 

“The Research Showcase also provides opportunities to network with other researchers and professionals, which can lead to future collaborations or job opportunities. A showcase like this will help students to stand out in their academic and professional careers.” 

The scholarly activity and research that were presented at the Research Showcase helps to address societal and industrial challenges while advancing the priorities of Alberta. Many projects involved interdisciplinary collaboration between students, faculty and partners and included actionable steps on RDP’s campuses and in communities.

As an institution, Red Deer Polytechnic has four areas of focus, including Manufacturing and Advanced Manufacturing, Healthcare and Health Technology, Energy Innovation and Social Innovation. 

For more information about the Third Annual Research Showcase, including a list of projects, descriptions, and the biographies of the presenters, please visit: rdpolytech.ca/about-us/events/3rd-annual-research-showcase-program.