Frazer Faculty of Education, Ontario Tech University
Mental Health in the Digital Age Lab
Researching digital wellness and holistic well-being across the lifespan to promote flourishing in the digital age.
Participate in a research study on trauma-informed care and digital wellness in post-secondary institutions!
Title of the Study: Digital Wellness and Trauma-Informed Care for Post-Secondary Students: A Path to Student Success
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Principal Investigator:
Dr. Jennifer Laffier, Mitch and Leslie Frazer Faculty of Education, Ontario Tech University
Email: jennifer.laffier@ontariotechu.ca
Student Leads:
Study Description:
You are invited to participate in a research study that explores how wellness approaches, such as digital wellness and trauma-informed care, can support student success in post-secondary institutions. This study aims to understand the perspectives and experiences of students and faculty regarding mental health, technology use, and learning in higher education. The findings will inform recommendations for teaching strategies and mental health interventions in higher education settings. This information will help create student and faculty resources.
Data Collection Method:
Participation in this study involves completing an online survey. The online survey will be used to gather information on attitudes, beliefs, behaviours, and knowledge related to digital wellness and trauma-informed practices. The survey will take approximately 45-60 minutes to complete.
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Risks:
Participants may feel minor discomfort answering survey questions about mental health, including trauma. To mitigate risks and any discomfort, this study (1) uses anonymous data collection methods, 2) asks questions about trauma and wellness for educational purposes, with no details, (3) allows the participant to skip questions or end the survey, and (4) provides a list of mental health supports if needed.
Students
Good2Talk
Phone: 1-866-925-5454
Text: “GOOD2TALKON” to 686868
Visit: good2talk.ca
Ontario Tech University Student Mental Health Services
Canadian Mental Health Association – Durham Chapter (Oshawa)
Visit: cmhadurham.ca
Faculty
Sun Life Wellness Supports
Visit: https://luminohealth.sunlife.ca/s/virtual-care-resources?language=en_US
Mobile app: Lumino Health Virtual App
Phone: 1-844-342-3327
Canadian Mental Health Association – Durham Chapter (Oshawa)
Visit: cmhadurham.ca
Benefits:
While there are no direct benefits to you for participating, your involvement may contribute to a better understanding of how to support student success through digital wellness and trauma-informed practices. Your input could help shape future educational strategies and mental health initiatives.
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Confidentiality and Anonymity:
The online survey is anonymous and will not collect personal information. You have the right to withdraw from the study before submitting your survey response. If you decide to withdraw while you are filling out the survey, you may stop responding to questions and close the window. Your responses will not be recorded or included in the study.
Voluntary Participation:
Your participation is entirely voluntary, and you may withdraw from the study without affecting your relationship with Ontario Tech University. There is no obligation to participate in the study and you may decline to answer any question or leave the study without any penalty.
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Information to Participate:
If you are interested in participating, you can complete the online survey, including a consent question.
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The deadline to complete the survey is March 14, 2025. You can access the surveys below!
Contact Information
If you have any questions regarding participant rights or concerns, please contact the Research Ethics Office at (905) 721-8668 ext. 3693 or email researchethics@ontariotechu.ca.
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If you have any questions about the study itself, please reach out to the research team via email.
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This study has been reviewed by the Ontario Tech University Research Ethics Board REB # 18085 on February 27, 2025