The quest for knowledge and understanding in a systematic manner may be referred to as research. I have always enjoyed exploring new ideas and delving into the exciting world of research. Having a diverse educational background, I stand at a point where sometimes it becomes challenging to synthesize a myriad of ideas in different domains. This may be viewed as a blessing in disguise since I am never short of ideas worth exploring.
Interest in research further supports my passion and motivation in the doctorate program (TISM) at Michigan State University. It is widely acknowledged that online learning technologies have the ability to enhance the provision of higher education. Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) have transformed the educational landscape by providing better ways of learning. E-learning strategies are increasingly being incorporated into on-campus teaching in various centers of learning. Most of the learning tools using ICT are useful but in special reference to the developing world, there is a greater gap in the implementation of these technologies, besides their full understanding and use.
Experience of learning in several countries puts me in a position to understand well the importance of online learning tools and their application and use in different environments. I am also aware of the difference in student levels and faculty from different backgrounds. I have taught courses in e-marketing, e-commerce and have specialized in telecommunications management.
In the context of the imperative need to implement ICT technologies especially in education, it is noted that it is sometimes not happening effectively and efficiently. Educators may lack the right skills to push forward technology in instruction initiatives or lack the resources to establish a technology based framework for learning and development.
I am interested in the following research areas:
- Motivations for user participation in online communities
- Social Media for Businesses & Organizations
- Online Collaboration & Computer Mediated Communication
- Games for learning
Research Projects & Grants:
May 2012 – August 2012: AT&T research project, hiring and placements in iSchools with Dr. Emilee Rader.
August 2011 – May 2012: Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation funded research project with Dr. Nicole Ellison. The project is titled, “Social media and college aspirations: A social capital perspective”.
August 2010 – June 2011: National Science Foundation (NSF) project with Dr. Charles Steinfield titled, “VISTA – Vertical Industry Standards & Technology Adoption”. The project involved a comparative empirical analysis of the development, adoption, implementation, and diffusion of vertical (or industry-wide) information system standards in different industries.
Research Grants/Fellowships Awarded
- Andrew E. Rasmussen, Jr. Memorial Scholarship: Awarded Andrew Rasmussen Scholarship (April 2012) based on “demonstrated scholarship and integrity”.
- Research Excellence Fellowship 2011: Khan M. L.(PI), College of Communication Arts and Sciences , Michigan State University, United States.
Volunteer Work / Interests & Hobbies
- Initiated and maintained a social media marketing strategy for two local restaurants in East Lansing. Designed the logo, marketing campaign and successfully managing their Facebook pages in addition to food photography. The business considerably expanded its customer base as a result of the successful integrated marketing campaign utilizing a combination of social media tools.
- Consulting work for small and medium sized businesses related to social media.
