Dr. Sam Qorbani
Associate Professor, Grant MacEwan University
Education
PhD IT, Defended on Oct 2022, Awarded on 2023
Employment since graduation
Associate Professor, Grant MacEwan University: July 2023 – Present
Details on their current work
As an Associate Professor at Grant MacEwan University, I focus on teaching computer science courses to undergraduate students. My primary emphasis is on the design and development of video games and the development of Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) for educational applications. Through this work, I aim to explore how immersive technologies can make learning more interactive, accessible, and engaging.
How did the program prepare them for their career?
Pursuing a PhD in Information Technology focused on digital media was a transformative journey. The program equipped me with essential research skills, teaching strategies, and a strong foundation in academic planning. I developed a teaching philosophy centered on empathy, collaboration, and adaptability, which allows me to engage effectively with diverse learners.
During the PhD, I researched VR frameworks for STEM education and collaborated across disciplines, such as STEM education and cognitive science. This experience honed my ability to design curriculum-aligned learning experiences and inspired my current research into using XR technologies for accessible and inclusive education.
Furthermore, the program taught me the importance of continuous learning, effective communication, and community engagement. These skills are critical in teaching and research, enabling me to inspire students while addressing real-world educational challenges.
Future Goals
I’m excited to continue exploring how VR and AR can make education more interactive and meaningful. I want to create curriculum-based VR content and build a global VR library that educators and students everywhere can use. Making these technologies accessible to everyone, especially users with disabilities, is a big part of my vision. I plan to dig deeper into using tools like eye-tracking and gesture controls to make that happen. I’m also interested in bringing AI and data analytics into VR systems to provide personalized learning experiences and better ways to assess and track progress. On top of that, expanding multiplayer functionality in VR is a priority for me because collaborative learning in immersive spaces has so much potential. Collaborating with people from different fields is something I love doing, and I’m looking forward to finding more ways to create innovative education solutions.
Advice for students
If you’re a student, my advice is to stay curious and keep showing up. Attend your classes, finish your courses, and don’t be afraid to dive into new topics. Reading and writing will help you think critically and picking up technical and soft skills will make you stand out. Networking is super important, too—use platforms like LinkedIn to talk about your projects and connect with others in your field. Always take a moment to appreciate your supervisors and mentors; they’re there to help you through the tough spots. Remember, a PhD isn’t just a degree—it’s a journey that teaches resilience, problem-solving, and independence. Get involved in workshops, conferences, and projects, and don’t hesitate to put yourself out there. Rejected papers are a part of the game! Keep trying.
Education is a powerful tool, and it can take you far if you approach it with enthusiasm and an open mind.