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Industry Day

MDM Cohort 15.0 Industry Day

Save the Date: 9th & 10th August 2025

THESIS

LEAF: Learning Entities and Adaptive Framework

How can generative AI be leveraged to drive emotionally responsive companion characters that adapt to player actions and in-game contexts within narrative-driven games?

L.E.A.F. explores how generative AI can power emotionally responsive companions in narrative-driven games - characters that learn from player actions, adapt to context, and evolve over time.

Cody Jensen

Virtual Try-On Technology:  Revolutionizing Wedding Dress Shopping For Future Brides

In what ways can a virtual fitting room reduce the time customers spend trying on wedding dresses, given the substantial costs of appointments and the customer service issues that often lead to frustration?

How does virtual fit technology enable users to see how dresses will look on them, allowing for at-home try-ons?

Can the integration of virtual fit technology and fashion visibly influence the human body?

Imagine trying on wedding dresses from home! The virtual try-on technology to transform how brides shop, providing a convenience and style exploration before stepping into a physical store.

Trista Le

Aneela's Chai Shop- A cozy game for cultural reflection and identity reconstruction among diaspora players

How can a cozy, narrative-focused game help diaspora players reflect on their cultural identity and reconnect with their roots?

Aneela’s Chai Shop is a cozy, narrative-driven game where players help a young woman relearn the art of making chai while reconnecting with her South Asian heritage. Through interactive rituals and storytelling, the game explores themes of grief, identity, and cultural healing.

Momna Sheikh

Goblin Talk

Goblin Talk is a cooperative 4 player local multiplayer game about talking your group's way to the best beach party in the land.

Aidan Wolfson

Nudging in Online Investing: A Guide to Designing Nudges for Investment Platforms

How to design nudges for online investment platforms to reduce investment mistakes caused by cognitive biases and heuristics?

Most investors don’t realize their decisions are shaped by biases and mental shortcuts, leading to costly mistakes. This research provides a practical guide to designing nudges for online investment platforms that could help investors counteract their biases and irrationalities in their mental decision-making models.

 

Mohd Umar Haque

Video-Based Media and Nursing Practice

How do nurses use video-based social media to advance professional practice and enhance patient outcomes and education?

My project investigates how nurses in Canada are using video-based social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram and TikTok to improve both their own professional practice skills and how they educate patients. Ultimately, I aim to provide guidelines for ethical and effective social media engagement within nursing.

 

Brittany Cole

Gaming Beyond Words: An acoustic approach to inclusive playing experiences

How can a 2D puzzle game that substitutes linguistic elements with universally understood sounds, develop emotional cognition through acoustic connections, to create a more inclusive playing experience?

Many video games today rely heavily on linguistic elements to convey gameplay and narrative, so I wanted to explore techniques to make gaming more accessible using universally understood sounds. To do this, I created a 2D puzzle game named Grow Forth, which relies on acoustics and emotion-based mechanics rather than words or speech to guide the player through the experience. 

Hannah Nicoletta

Echoes of Eden

How can digital recreations of childhood memories evoke nostalgia and introspection through digital animation?

Echoes of Eden is an animated experience that revisits the artist’s childhood environments using Unreal Engine 5 and Blender to explore how digitally reconstructed spaces can shape memory and evoke nostalgia. The project reflects on how personal environments influence emotional experience and self-perception over time.

Gloria Cao

Designing for Care: Rethinking Gender Roles through a Gamified Meal-Planning App

How can theories of gender, care, and cultural identity inform the design of a gamified meal-planning app, and what assumptions do they help reveal or challenge through the process?

This project uses reflective design to explore how gender, identity, and care can be represented through a gamified meal-planning app. It asks how design decisions, guided by theory, can reveal or challenge everyday assumptions.

Hoda Yasini

[REDACTED]

How can digital technologies be used to preserve memories and create new ones? What are the effects different mediums have on the effectiveness of such representations? Finally, can game engines become an accessible method of preservation, recreation, and experience?

[REDACTED] is a series of New Media artworks exploring the ways in which digital technologies can be used to integrate, present, or create memories.

Angelina Almanza

Understanding User Behavior and Data Exploitation on Social Media

CyberSafe is a user-centered mobile app designed to enhance cybersecurity awareness among social media users by providing personalized risk scores, phishing simulations, and privacy education. It simplifies complex security practices through inclusive, engaging design grounded in behavioral research and critical perspectives.

Mina Nasr

The Student Game Studio 

How can a massive interdisciplinary collaborative project inspire self-guided learning and prepare students for careers?

85 students

8 development departments

7 industry guests

2 semesters 

1 game 

Maeve Fitzgerald

Hybrid Experience Design Framework

How can a theory-informed framework support the development and design of a hybrid experiences, and specifically, hybrid board games?

There is a gap between emerging technology and design-led development and this research aims to bridge this gap. It considers one niche within hybrid designs, hybrid board games, that research gaps show a need for designers to aid in the innovation of new technology and hybrid experience. Thus, this research aims to create the Hybrid Experience Framework that empowers designers to innovate to develop new technologies.

Victoria Nip

CGAI: how generative ai is reshaping digital media and artists practices

How can generative AI be seamlessly integrated in existing production pipelines for visual effects and used to style, texture and augment renders or flipbooks generated using Houdini and ComfyUI?

CGAI explores how artists can seamlessly integrate generative AI into traditional computer graphics workflows, empowering artists to harness AI's creative potential while working within their familiar professional pipelines.

Rafael Drelich

Projective Machines

Projective Machines is a modular research system for creating immersive, AI-driven installations—investigating how generative AI and embodied computing can co-produce meaning, motion, and interaction in real time. Centered around a robotic arm equipped with sensory technologies and custom software pipelines, the project serves as a platform for exploring co-authored experiences across language, vision, and physical expression.

Jacques Parys

The Tactical Interaction Project (TIP): A Bike-Based Toolkit for Public Participation and Urban Intervention

How can a bike-based interactive media platform, developed through research-creation and critical making, be designed to support participatory, public interaction and create conditions for community engagement and urban spatial reclamation?

The Tactical Interaction Project (TIP) is a mobile, bike-based media platform designed for interactive public art and tactical interventions in urban space, inviting communal participation, with the intent to spark critical dialogue, reclaim public space, and foster the building of community.

Jonny Klynkramer

EXPLORING Data Privacy and Security in Digital Interactions: User Perceptions and Emerging Technologies

How do users perceive privacy and security in digital platforms?

Why do existing privacy policies fail to inform and protect users?

What kind of intervention can bridge this communication gap? 

The project examines user perceptions of data privacy and security on digital platforms and addresses existing communication gaps by introducing a visual solution called Privacy Clarity Label (PCL), which aims to improve transparency and informed consent.

Taiwo Odeyemi

Nabz-e Noor - Pulse of Light

Can an immersive art experience bridge cultural heritage and facilitate healing through the integration of art and science?

This interactive kinetic sculpture invites participants to explore the connection between emotion, healing, and cultural heritage. Using brainwave (EEG) technology, the installation transforms the user's mental state into a dynamic interaction through light, and movement inspired by Islamic architecture. 

Irena Faiz

INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIP

EdVenture: Personalized Learning Platform

Industry Partner: Ametros Learning

In Ontario's K-12 education system, almost one-third of students perform below provincial standards in reading and writing. This issue stems from a lack of emphasis on foundational literacy skills in early education, as well as a shortage of teachers and instructional resources, which limits access to personalized support. Our project aims to address this by using AI and a game-based learning experience to motivate and support students in closing the achievement gap.

We’re developing a game-based learning platform that enables students to develop their reading and writing skills by engaging in meaningful role-play challenges within a connected adventure world. With AI support, each student receives a fully personalized learning experience, tailored content, dynamic guidance, scaffolded support, and real-time feedback.

Rebecca Yi
Nayhan Karim
William Aung

The Toronto App

Industry Partner: City of Toronto

How can we help people discover Toronto’s best hidden gems and events by providing personalized recommendations tailored to their everyday preferences and moods?

This app goes beyond generic review platforms by providing neighbourhood-specific exploration, authentic recommendations, and a comprehensive events calendar—all tailored specifically to Toronto's unique character and needs.

Ivan Rubtsov
Emily Hoang
Girik Handa
Noorain Virani

Little AR Explorer

Industry Partner: Little Canada

While Little Canada offers an incredible visual journey of Canadian landmarks and culture, its current setup may lack interactive and curriculum-aligned educational tools that deeply engage students. There is untapped potential to transform the experience into a more immersive, hands-on learning opportunity that ties directly to educational goals, helping students better understand Canada’s history, geography, and culture in a meaningful way.

Discover Little Canada like never before through an interactive AR trivia hunt - scan, explore, and match miniature landmarks using your phone to unlock fun facts and hidden stories behind every exhibit. A playful blend of education and engagement that brings our tiny country to life!

Swetlana Adhikari
Crystal Varghese
Fyha Zubaida

Hearts of Toronto

Industry Partner: City of Toronto

How does a multisensory experience combining nature, interactive music, and biofeedback influence participants' physiological and emotional states?

Experience a calming escape into nature through an interactive installation where your heartbeat and touch create music and art with living plants. Discover harmony between your body, sound, and the natural world in the heart of the city.

Ayleen Karamat
Catherine Mathew
Maddie Zavarise
Nitya Shinde

Little Canada, Big Stories

Industry Partner: Little Canada

Could the current conclusion of the Little Canada exhibit be enhanced to leave a more lasting impression on the visitor? We were tasked with creating a project that ensured visitors concluded the tour with something meaningful and memorable, that left them in awe of everything they have seen on the tour, making them feel more connected to Canada.

An interactive, community-driven archival map that allows users to leave messages about their memories and aspirations that are tied to locations throughout Canada. 

Nazifa Alam
Chiedza Kaseke
Yujin Liu
Alisha Pereira

Dream to Degree

Industry Partner: TMU/MDM

We are currently producing a podcast series titled “Dream to Degree”, a Major Research Project developed as part of Industry Partnership with the MDM program. This six-episode series explores the evolving landscape of international education in Canada, providing guidance, insights, and real-world perspectives to prospective international students.

Canada is increasingly being recognized as one of the best destinations for immigrants pursuing higher education, thanks to its inclusive culture, strong academic institutions, and ample post-graduation opportunities. Through this podcast, we aim to support students in navigating their academic journey while highlighting the strengths of TMU as an institution and Canada.

Dream to Degree is a six-episode podcast series that helps international students navigate Canadian higher education through real stories, expert insights, and practical guidance—spotlighting Toronto Metropolitan University and its Master of Digital Media program. Produced in partnership with the MDM program, it turns complex processes into clear pathways.

Valerie Bian
Aryan Sharma
Edu Aguilar
Laxman Kanodia

Fan Activation Experience at the 2025 Call of Duty Championships

Industry Partner: Overactive Media

Our thesis questions whether we can produce equivalent engagement rates for fans across attendance formats and bridge the gap between virtual and physical experiences. 

Our MRP analyzes the digital versus physical fan experience. Utilizing OverActive Media’s Ultra Elite loyalty program, we are creating an initiative to activate and engage fans who are attending the 2025 Call of Duty League Championship in-person and online. We will offer interactive activities and high quality rewards through an exclusive “Champs Takeover”.

Sneesha Anandkumar
Holly Bachman

Start Ups

Artisan Space

DIY enthusiasts and small craft entrepreneurs lack an integrated platform that supports learning, community building, and showcasing or selling their creations in one place.

Artisan Space is a creative online platform that connects DIY lovers through workshops, craft kits, and a vibrant community — making it easy to learn, share, and co-create handmade projects.

Sherry Shi
Anna Ngo

ImmersiView

Toni Miller

Can AR-powered game trailers serve as a middle ground between cinematic marketing and playable demos to better reflect gameplay and reduce post-purchase disappointment?

ImmersiView is an AR-enhanced game trailer experience that lets players scan a game’s cover to explore characters and environments in immersive 3D. It bridges the gap between cinematic trailers and hands-on demos. Designed for both players and studios, it offers a more transparent, interactive way to discover new games before purchase.

Looply

Current online thrifting platforms often lack intuitive design, fast transactions, and meaningful community engagement, making the experience frustrating for users. Buyers and sellers face inefficient processes and limited support, reducing trust and satisfaction. Looply addresses these gaps by offering a modern, user-friendly app that simplifies secondhand shopping, enhances buyer protection, and fosters a connected, playful community experience.

Discover Looply — a fresh, fun, and easy-to-use thrifting app that connects buyers and sellers in a playful, secure, and community-driven space. With streamlined listings, smart search tools, and fast, safe transactions, Looply makes secondhand shopping feel brand new.

Rebecca Young
Kate Fang

Chroma Immersion

Tyler Salerno

How can immersive, multisensory art experiences be designed to support emotional regulation and inclusive engagement for neurodivergent adults?

Chroma Immersion is a multisensory art therapy experience designed to support emotional regulation and well-being through color, movement, and immersive visuals. Tailored with neurodivergent individuals in mind, the installation invites participants to explore calming, interactive environments that blend light, color, sound, and tactile elements.

Umo

Trade school students need hands-on experience to complete their programs, while the general public needs affordable services, but there's a significant technology gap where outdated manual systems create friction that prevents these two groups from efficiently connecting.

Prapti Gosain
Aswathy

Tactile TV

How immersive can media become?

An immersive VR video experience that uses custom-designed motion capture and haptic circuit boards to animate the actors and allow users to feel the size and shape of digital objects. 

Milsey Mills
Jiaming Yang
Hamza Bhawana

Coins

Johnu Marattil

Managing personal finances is often time-consuming, confusing, and inaccessible for many people, especially those without financial literacy. Coins seeks to answer: How can we automate and simplify personal expense tracking and budgeting using AI to promote better financial decision-making and long-term money management?

Coins is an AI-powered personal finance app that simplifies budgeting and expense tracking by automatically scanning receipts, categorizing spending, and providing smart financial insights. It helps users take control of their money effortlessly with natural language input and bank syncing.

Arqadia

Samer Alhassan

Enter a pulse-pounding survival game where music shapes the world. Dodge, run, and confront a music-powered boss in a dynamic rhythm-driven experience

Social Scenes

Despite the abundance of platforms for event promotion and discovery, event hosts continue to face a persistent challenge: low attendance rates and frequent no-shows. Existing tools like Google Forms, Eventbrite, and social media stories are disconnected, making it difficult to engage potential guests, build commitment, or track meaningful attendance data. At the same time, event attendees lack a purposeful social layer — while they may discover events, there is little to no system that fosters genuine, repeat social interactions or motivates them to show up. This results in missed opportunities for real-world bonding and weakens community building. There is a need for a solution that reduces no-shows for event hosts and nurtures authentic, lasting connections for attendees.

Our app gets people off their phones and into real events — where your friends are going, you’re going too.

Zoreb Malick
Muhammad Khizar Khan