Research on Digital Technology and Harm in Canada

Study Title: Preventing Data Harms in Canada: Investigating the Significance of Age

Research Ethics Board Approval: REB #127331

Study Description

Have you ever experienced an online scam, struggled with a digital service, worried about your privacy, or felt that technology treated people differently based on age?

Researchers at Western University's Starling Centre are studying how Canadians experience data harms and digital technologies in their everyday lives. We are interested in hearing from adults of all ages, including older adults and retirees, about their experiences with technology and digital systems.

What we learn will help inform public education initiatives, community engagement activities, and policy recommendations aimed at creating safer and more equitable digital environments for everyone.

What's Involved?

Participants will attend a half-day, in-person workshop at Weldon Library , Western University.

Workshop Dates:

● July 22, 2026

● July 23, 2026

● July 24, 2026

Workshop Time:

● Between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

The workshop includes:

● Interactive discussions and activities

● Opportunities to share experiences with technology

● Breaks and refreshments

● Conversations about online scams, privacy, surveillance, AI, digital bias, and other technology-related concerns

Sessions will be recorded as part of the research project.

Who Are We Recruiting?

We are looking for older adults 18+

We particularly welcome participation from older adults, retirees, and people who have experienced challenges or concerns related to digital technologies.

No technical expertise is required. We simply want to hear about your experiences.

Why Participate?

Your insights can help researchers better understand how technology affects people at different stages of life and identify ways to reduce data harms in Canada.

By participating, you will contribute to research that aims to improve public awareness, strengthen protections, and support more responsible technology policies.

Learn More About the Project

Project website: https://starlingcentre.ca/project/data-harms-in-canada/

How to Participate

Spaces are limited.

To learn more or register your interest, sign up here or contact:

Dr. Joanna Redden

Principal Investigator

Faculty of Information and Media Studies (FIMS)

Western University