Advanced Digital Technologies in Pathways to Employment
Sub-Theme: Transforming Immigrant Employment Pathways
The interrelated projects under this sub-theme each examine a different dimension of how ADTs, particularly those powered by artificial intelligence, are transforming immigrant employment pathways in Canada.
Objective
This project explores how Advanced Digital Technologies (ADTs) can bridge the gap between newcomers’ skills and labour market demands. It examines their use in skills recognition, training, career pathing, and job placement, while also considering risks such as embedded bias and the digital divide.
Particularly with the advent of generative AI, there is a need to understand how the technology is shaping labour market demand as well as the implications for newcomer job seekers and employees.
Research questions
- How are employers, particularly SMEs, using ADTs, and how does this shape workforce demand and immigrant hiring?
- How can digital platforms facilitate skills recognition and validation for immigrants?
- What challenges and opportunities arise from the integration of digital technologies in recruitment, assessment, upskilling, and development?
- In what ways can ADTs mitigate or reinforce bias and discrimination in hiring and promotion?
- How can inclusive practices be promoted to ensure ADTs support immigrants and newcomers?
Methodology
The project uses a mixed-methods approach, including literature reviews, surveys of employers and immigrants, action research projects with partners, and policy analysis on responsible use of AI.
Status
This project is ongoing. Literature reviews and national surveys completed; employer and immigrant surveys underway; action research and evaluation projects in progress; multiple research reports and conference presentations delivered.
Expected completion date: Winter 2027
Keywords
Skills training; labour market entry; small and medium enterprises; digital technologies; immigrant employment
