Dr. Heather O Brien

Professor

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Biography

Heather O'Brien is a Professor at the School of Information, University of British Columbia. She holds a PhD from Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and has dedicated 20 years to studying user engagement with technology. Her research focuses on creating a strong theoretical foundation for evaluating user engagement. She developed the User Engagement Scale (UES), which has been translated into several languages and utilized in various digital contexts such as online searches and e-learning systems. O'Brien's work has been recognized with the Research in Information Science Award by the Association for Information Science and Technology (ASIS&T). She is also involved in projects like the Supporting Transparent Open Knowledge Exchange Engagement (STOREE), which aims to improve access to research for non-academic community members and enhance university-community collaborations. With numerous publications, her work significantly contributes to understanding how technology impacts user engagement and information access.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

2018-01-01 — Present

University of British Columbia • Vancouver, BC, Canada

Professor at the School of Information focusing on user engagement and information access.

Awards

#2022

Research in Information Science Award

2022-01-01

Requirements for University of British Columbia

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:21
Total
Required:100
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Philosophy or related field 3 credits in formal logic 6 credits at the upper level in history of philosophy 3 credits at the upper level in ethics or value theory 6 credits at the upper level in metaphysics, epistemology, or philosophy of science
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Writing sample (15-20 pages)
  • Statement of intent
  • Evidence of English language proficiency
Specialization Notes

Offers course-only and thesis routes. Focus areas include philosophy of science, mind, ethics, and Asian philosophy.