معرفی
Rob McMahon is an Associate Professor in the Media & Technology Studies Unit and Department of Political Science within the Faculty of Arts at the University of Alberta, holding a joint appointment in the Master of Arts in Communication and Technology (MACT) program since 2015.
Education:
- BA in History and Creative Writing (University of Victoria)
- MJ (Masters of Journalism) (University of British Columbia)
- PhD in Communication (Simon Fraser University, Dean's Convocation Medal recipient)
His research centers on community-based technology development with Indigenous, rural, and Northern communities, emphasizing participatory methodologies to address digital divides, community informatics, digital literacy, and communication policy. He integrates community voices throughout all research stages to ensure authentic representation and impact.
Analysis of his 2014-2022 publications reveals consistent focus on Indigenous connectivity, digital inclusion in remote regions, and community-driven broadband initiatives. Key trends include comparative analysis of Canadian/U.S. Indigenous broadband projects, stakeholder engagement in telecommunications policy, and innovative applications like augmented reality for cultural preservation and Indigenous-settler relations.
Scientific awards:
- Killam Accelerator award (2020)
- Dean's Convocation Medal (PhD Dissertation)
Dr. McMahon mentors graduate students in community-oriented communication technology projects, teaching advanced research design, strategic communication, and community engagement. His research is funded by:
- Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (Insight grant)
- University of Alberta Teaching and Learning Enhancement Fund
- Internet Society's Beyond the Net program
- Canadian Internet Registration Authority Community Investment
- Digital Literacy Exchange Program (ISED Canada)
He co-directs the DigitalNWT project (NWT digital literacy training) and co-founded the First Mile Connectivity Consortium (national Indigenous broadband advocacy), while leading the Piikani Cultural and Digital Literacy Camp Program for Indigenous youth engagement and knowledge preservation.
