Heather Lawless
Degree: Ph.D.
Year of Entry: 2024
Program: Adult Education and Community Development
Department of Leadership, Higher & Adult Education
Biography
Heather is a PhD student in Adult Education and Community Development at the University of Toronto, with a background in public policy and health equity. Guided by Self-Determination Theory, her research explores how podcasting and other digital communication practices can support belonging, trust, and community-building among equity-deserving populations. Her work integrates mixed methods and knowledge mobilization through public-facing scholarship.
Degrees
-
M.P.A, Public Administration (Dispute Resolution and Mediation)University of Victoria
-
Bachelor of Arts, Political ScienceUniversity of Toronto
Research Interests
- Podcasting and digital storytelling
- Belonging and community
- Self-Determination Theory
- Parasocial relationships
- Equity-focused communication
