Research Team

Keirsten Taylor (she/her) holds a BSc Honours in Psychology from MacEwan University and is currently pursuing an MSc in School and Applied Child Psychology at the University of Calgary. Keirsten’s academic work explores the intersection of child development, executive function, STEM learning, and play-based pedagogy. Outside of the lab, Keirsten enjoys playing outdoor sports like golf and tennis, spending time with her two cats, solving puzzles, and going on spontaneous adventures with friends.

Sydney Dickner (she/her) holds a degree and a research certificate in Psychology from the University of Alberta and is currently completing her MSc in School and Applied Child Psychology at the University of Calgary. She is passionate about supporting children with developmental disabilities and their families. Her interest in this field began early, inspired by her experiences growing up with a younger brother who is Deaf. Outside of the CanPlay lab, Sydney enjoys spending time with friends and family, playing with her cat, practicing yoga, and traveling.

Hailey Fetter (she/her)  is a fourth-year undergraduate student at the University of Alberta, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. She plans to pursue graduate studies in Counselling Psychology with a focus on working with young children. Hailey’s key interests include supporting young children with behavioural, emotional, or academic challenges, and examining how marginalization shapes developmental outcomes. She strives to make a meaningful impact through research, advocacy, and hands-on support. 

Mikoto Frank (she/her)  is a second-year undergraduate student at MacEwan University, pursuing a Bachelor of Early Childhood Curriculum Studies. She is passionate about understanding how children think to find innovative ways to support their development. Through experiential learning, Mikoto is committed to making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families. Beyond her work with the CanPlay Lab, Mikoto enjoys spending time outdoors hiking and camping, playing her musical instruments, and reading. 

Jerry Gan (he/him) is a graduate student in the Faculty of Education at the University of Alberta. His Master’s research explores pre-service teachers’ attitudes, beliefs, and concerns about teaching culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) students. His broader research interests include inclusive education, language and literacy, and differentiated instruction for marginalized learners. Jerry is passionate about creating equitable learning environments that support the academic and social-emotional well-being of all students. 

Zachary Jickling (he/him) is entering is third year of his undergraduate program at MacEwan University, pursuing a BA in Psychology with a minor in French. He plans to pursue a MSc in Speech-Language Pathology upon graduation. He is passionate about psycholinguistics, language acquisition and development, as well as accessibility for those with a wide range of disabilities. His interest in this field comes from growing up with a Deaf family friend, and being in speech therapy himself. Outside of his studies, he enjoys being involved with many communities and clubs around Edmonton, spending time with family and friends, and writing. 

Courtney Smith (she/her) is currently enrolled in the Master of Educational Policy Studies at the University of Alberta. Previously, she completed her Bachelor of Early Childhood Curriculum Studies at MacEwan University. Courtney's passion for working with children began at a young age through babysitting siblings' and neighbours' children. She is passionate about advocating for accessible childcare that provides a quality early childhood experience for all children. She also enjoys being outdoors, hiking, camping, and tending to her plants at home.