Improving the campus experience at the University of Toronto through student-led design
In this blog, Manavi discusses extending the use of design principles into research and other types of reports in order to maximize student creativity in and inspiration from papers.
Written by Manavi Goyal, Blog Editor & Content Writer, Honours Bachelor of Science, Psychology Specialist, Economics Major, and Sociology Minor
In partnership with Health & Wellness, the Innovation Hub is hosting co-creation sessions to explore reception experiences at Health & Wellness. During the sessions, the Innovation Hub team will share what we’ve learned through our design research so far and participants will be invited to generate ideas that will improve Health & Wellness reception experiences for students in the future.
In partnership with Accessibility Services, the Innovation Hub is hosting co-creation sessions to explore engagement and belonging for students with disabilities at U of T. During the sessions, the Innovation Hub team will share what we’ve learned through our design research so far and participants will be invited to generate ideas that will improve campus experiences for students with disabilities in the future.
Human-centered research often prioritizes results. In this blog, Manuela reflects on the impact of personas, reminding researchers and academics that it is necessary to highlight the humanity of their sources when presenting their results.
Written by Manuela Mora Castillo, Blog Editor & Content Writer, Honours Bachelor of Arts, Political Science and History Double Major, Latin American Studies Minor
December 3rd is the International Day for Persons with Disabilities. In this blog post, Manavi discusses Accessibility by Design as a tool to reduce barriers for students with disabilities at the University of Toronto.
Written by Manavi Goyal, Blog Editor & Content Writer, Honours Bachelor of Science, Psychology Specialist, Economics Major, and Sociology Minor
The Innovation Hub is ready to take on new design thinking and storytelling projects for the 2025-2026 academic year. Our student teams can help you co-create programs, services, resources, and spaces. Working together, we help you build positivity around your project and ensure the highest possible student engagement in the process. Our teams are hired and trained specifically for your project and work directly with you and your teams throughout the process.
Are you someone who has a passion for community, storytelling, and improving the student experience? Are you a creative, curious, and out-of-the-box thinker? Do you already have a wealth of experience on your resume? We’re excited to share our postings for roles at the Innovation Hub: Communications & Operations Lead, Project Assistant, and Research Coordinator. To learn more about these roles and how to apply, take a look below.
Katrina, a former A&S UTQAP design researcher, reflects on her experience conducting human-centered interviews. She discusses the importance of balancing empathy in qualitative research from a personal and professional standpoint.
Written by Katrina Sze Ching Soong, Qualitative Data Archivist Team Lead, Honours Bachelor of Arts, English and Philosophy Double Major, History Minor
Many feel anxiety and pressure when asked to share a fun fact during icebreakers. In this blog post, Ajeetha offers practical advice on how to prepare and navigate these moments with confidence, emphasizing that icebreakers can be a tool for connection and setting a positive tone in group settings.
Written by Ajeetha Vithiyananthan, Blog Editor & Digital Content Writer, Bachelor of Science, Psychology and Sociology
The International Students: First 48 Hours documentary chronicles the life of seven international students departing their countries of origin to the days after they arrive in Toronto, Canada. Manuela attended the St. George screening event earlier in October and reflects on her experience as an international student watching the film for the first time.
Written by Manuela Mora Castillo, Blog Editor & Content Writer, Honours Bachelor of Arts, Political Science and History Double Major and Latin American Studies Minor