Bill Kapralos

Dr. Bill Kapralos is an Associate Professor at Ontario Tech University in Oshawa, Canada, and an Honorable Guest Professor in the Graduate School of Informatics, Shizuoka University, Hamamatsu, Japan. Dr. Kapralos is a recent recipient of an Australian government 2018 Endeavour Executive Fellowship to conduct research in Australia and spent one month as a Visiting Research Fellow in the Institute for Intelligent Systems Research and Innovation at Deakin University as part of this Fellowship. He is a past recipient of a Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) Fellowship to conduct research in Japan and spent two months as a Visiting Professor at Shizuoka University in Hamamatsu, Japan, as part of this Fellowship. He is also a past recipient of an IBM Centres for Advanced Studies Faculty Award, a past co-recipient of a Google Faculty Award.

Dr. Kapralos has led several large interdisciplinary and international virtual simulation/serious gaming research projects that have brought together experts from medicine/surgery, medical education, game development/computer science, and engineering. He is currently leading the serious gaming theme within the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) Interactive and Multi-Modal Experience Research Syndicate (IMMERSe) initiative. He has been invited to speak on the topic of immersive technologies, virtual simulation, and serious gaming for medical education at numerous international events including a keynote presentation at the keynote presentation at the Healthcare Simulation Network (SIM-one) SIM Expo in Toronto (Nov. 30, 2017). In 2018, Dr. Kapralos was appointed as the Technical Lead of the Collaborative Human Immersive Interaction Laboratory (CHISIL), at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, in Toronto, Canada. The research conducted within CHISIL focuses on the use of virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed realities in clinical, medical and patient education in the perioperative period. At the invitation of the Federal Republic of Germany as part of the Germany Visitors Programme, Dr. Kapralos participated in a week-long event (Aug. 2016), part of which focused on establishing collaborations between himself and German serious gaming companies and academics. Dr. Kapralos has chaired numerous international conferences and workshops including the ACM FuturePlay conference (2007-2011), IEEE Games, Entertainment, and Media conference (2014 and 2015), and the 2018 International Workshop on Immersive Technologies and Serious Gaming for Health Professions Education (2018).

Dr. Kapralos’ research is centred on two themes: i) spatial sound generation, and ii) immersive technologies (virtual and augmented reality), and serious games. His research objectives include the development of multi-modal virtual learning environments/serious games that maximize learning, ultimately connecting my two current research themes. Additional interests (and expertise), lie in the fields of multi-modal virtual environments/simulation/reality, the perception of auditory events, multimodal interactions, and curriculum development. He is currently part of an NSERC Collaborative Research and Training Experience Program grant worth CAD$1,650,000 distributed amongst seven researchers at various universities in Ontario and focused on providing students with industry-based human-computer interaction experience. He is also currently leading the serious gaming theme within the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) Interactive and Multi-Modal Experience Research Syndicate (IMMERSe) initiative, and has been involved in many large interdisciplinary and international initiatives that included experts from Canada, Australia, Germany, Colombia, Chile, United States, Greece, and Japan. He has also received considerable research funding from international sources to support this research including grants from Colombia, Japan and Germany.

• Past and Current Research Grants and Funding (External Funding Sources: Non-UOIT)
• C. Da Silva, C. Anyinam, B. Kapralos, E. Peisachovich, R. Gal, S. Coffey, and T. Shute. Person-centered serious games for mental health education. Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC), Insight Development Grants. Jun 2019 – May 2021 $46,144
• B. Kapralos et al. Examining the effect of sound on haptic fidelity perception in virtual environments. 2019 Cooperative Research at Research Center of Biomedical Engineering, Research Institute of Electronics (RIE), Shizuoka University, Hamamatsu, Japan. Jun 2019 – Mar 2020 $2,200
• B. Kapralos. Effective immersive environments; multi-modal interactions, and user interface customization. Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Discovery Grant. Apr 2019 – Mar 2024 $170,000
• B. Kapralos and A. Quevedo. Usability testing of a gamified educational network. Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada Small Grants Program (UOIT) 2018. Jun 2018 – Mar 2019 $2,000
• B. Kapralos et al. Examining the effect of sound on haptic fidelity perception in virtual environments. 2018 Cooperative Research at Research Center of Biomedical Engineering, Research Institute of Electronics (RIE), Shizuoka University, Hamamatsu, Japan. Jun 2018 – Mar 2019 $2,300
• B. Pérez, A. J. Uribe Quevedo, N. Jaimes, B. Kapralos, and D. Rojas. Diseño y desarrollo de un prototipo de simulador con realidad virtual para el tratamiento de infarto de miocardio fase I. Universidad Militar Nueva Granada (UMMG), Bogota, Colombia. Feb 2018 – Jan 2019 $35,000
• J. Hughes, C. Collins, J. Arcand, M. DiGiuseppe, S. Dogra, A. Hogue, B. Kapralos, R. Kay, J. Laffier, A. Lesage, A. Mamolo, D. Petrarca, N. Wattie, G. Gadanidis, and I. K. Namukasa. There’s an app for that: Designing, developing, researching educational apps. Ontario Research Fund (ORF). Aug. 2017 – Jul 2022 $1,175,000
• B. Kapralos et al. Examining the effect of sound on haptic fidelity perception in virtual environments. 2017 Cooperative Research at Research Center of Biomedical Engineering, Research Institute of Electronics (RIE), Shizuoka University, Hamamatsu, Japan. Jun 2017 – Mar 2018 $2,300
• A. J. Uribe Quevedo, B. Kapralos, D. Rojas, B. Pérez, and L. Peñuela. Development of a multimodal tool for cardiac auscultation training phase I. Universidad Militar Nueva Granada (UMMG), Bogota, Colombia. Feb 2017 – Jan 2018 $21,000
• A. J. Uribe Quevedo, B. Kapralos, D. Rojas, and B. Pérez. Development of a monitoring posture exergame prototype based on occupational health exercises for maintenance workers phase I. Universidad Militar Nueva Granada (UMMG), Bogota, Colombia. Feb 2017 – Jan 2018 $21,000
• B. Kapralos et al. Cardiac auscultation skills development through medical simulation-based training. 2016 Cooperative Research at Research Center of Biomedical Engineering, Research Institute of Electronics (RIE), Shizuoka University, Hamamatsu, Japan. Jun 2016 – Mar 2017 $2,600
• B. Kapralos et al. Development of a novel tabletop and mobile imaging device based system to facilitate learner-centric education. 2015 Cooperative Research Project, Research Institute of Electronics (RIE), Shizuoka University, Hamamatsu, Japan. Apr 2015 – Mar 2016 $3,000
• A. Whitehead, R. Biddle, S. Chiasson, L. Frankel, A. Girouard, N. Graham, C. Herdman, B. Kapralos, and A. Ramirez. Collaborative learning of usability experiences (CLUE). Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Collaborative Research and Training Experience Program (Industrial Stream). May 2015 – Apr 2021 1,650,000
• S. Dunn, S. Bhatia, O. Bhattacharyya, A. Chan, E. Feuerstein, B. Kapralos, and L. McCarthy. Development and pilot evaluation of an interactive mobile app (M-app) to support decision-making for emergency contraception. Alternative Funding Plans for Academic Health Science Centres, Innovation Fund. Jan 2015 – Feb 2016 $13,850
• K. Collins, R. Dockwray, and B. Kapralos. Understanding and improving musical user-generated content in video games. Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) Insight Grants. May 2014 – Apr 2018 $224,820
• B. Kapralos. Spatial sound generation and perceptual-based rendering for virtual environments and serious games. Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Discovery Grant. May 2014 – Apr 2019 $100,000
• B. Kapralos (with industrial partner Spincore Inc.). An engaging visionbased exergame for exercise and rehabilitation. Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Engage Grants. May 2014 – Nov 2014 $24,509
• B. Kapralos, A. Dubrowski, M. Hogan, N. Randall, L. Brudnoy, K. Collins, A. Sheppard, and F. Haji. A serious game for medical-based cultural competence education and training. Ontario Simulation Network (Sim-One), Simulation Research & Innovation Grant. May 2014 – Apr 2015 $24,915
• L. Grierson, A. Dubrowski, B. Kapralos, R. Brydges, C. Bernard, and D. Musson. Observational practice and educational networking: extending the simulation-based education beyond the simulation laboratory. Ontario Simulation Network (Sim-One), Simulation Research & Innovation Grant. Apr 2014 – Mar 2015 $25,000
• B. Kapralos et al. Collaborative interprofessional education for critical care teams with augmented e-learning environments engaging advanced imaging devices. 2014 Cooperative Research Project, Research Institute of Electronics (RIE), Shizuoka University, Hamamatsu, Japan. Apr 2014- Mar 2015 $3,200
• B. Kapralos et al. Promoting collaborative interprofessional education for pediatric critical care teams with a table-top computer-based virtual e-learning environment. 2013 Cooperative Research Project, Research Institute of Electronics (RIE), Shizuoka University, Hamamatsu, Japan. May 2013- Apr 2014 $7,000
• L. Dempster, E. Lam, K. Burgess, J. Posluns, J. Fiege, A. Hayes, A. Dubrowski, J. Cheung, B. Kapralos, and L. McKay. Communication skills training: An integrated on-line and classroom design using standardized patients and peer role playing. Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, 2013 Deans Endowment Enrichment Fund. 2013 $10,192
• L. Harris, M. Jenkin, R. Allison, L. Wilcox, W. Gage, A. Hogue, B. Kapralos, and J. Campos. Full field vision and spatial orientation. Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI), Leading Edge Fund (2012). 2012 $790,891
• C. Whitehead, A. Dubrowski, L. McCarthy, H. Carnahan, B. Kapralos, J. Cheung. Assessing the interest, acceptability and usability of social networking to support a primary care patient-centred model for vulnerable older adults. Ontario Health Science Centre (AHSC) Alternative Funding Plan (AFP) Innovation Fund. Dec 2012 – May 2014 $30,000
• J. Friedlan, A. Hogue, and B. Kapralos. Interactive accounting game and evaluation engine -- Stage 2. Ontario Partnership for Innovation and Commercialization, Proof of Principle Fund Stage 2. Jul 2012 – Jun 2013 $25,000
• N. Randall, A. Arya, C. Joslin, D. Wershler, J. Carette, C. Milburn, B. Kapralos, K. Collins, C. Dimarco, G. Graffam, M. Hancock, K. Harrigan, F. S. Lian, S. Scott. IMMERSe: The interactive & multimodal experience research syndicate. Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) Partnership Grants. May 2012 – Apr 2018 $2,549,960
• B. Kapralos et al. Multimodal interactive interfaces for table-top computers in collaborative e-Learning environments. 2012 Cooperative Research Project, Research Institute of Electronics (RIE), Shizuoka University, Hamamatsu, Japan. May 2012 – Apr 2013 $11,000
• A. Hogue, B. Murphy, B. Kapralos. Development of a serious game to promote safer lifting techniques in the fire service. Workplace Safety and Insurance Board Solutions for Workplace Change. Dec 2011 – Dec 2012 $29,978
• B. Murphy, S. Passmore, A. Hogue, B. Kapralos, J. Triano, S. Mior, T. McLellan, and A. Dubrowski. Serious games to decrease injury in the fire service by training safer movement patterns and decision making skills: Development and piloting. Workers Compensation Board (WCB) of Manitoba, Research and Workplace Innovation Program (RWIP). May 2012 – May 2014 $199,167
• J. Friedlan, A. Hogue, and B. Kapralos. Interactive accounting game and evaluation engine. Ontario Partnership for Innovation and Commercialization, Proof of Principle Fund. July 2011 $10,000
• S. Cristancho, B. Kiaii, A. Dubrowski, F. Moussa, and B. Kapralos. Usability testing of virtual and physical simulation resources for training off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery. J. P. Bickell Foundation. May 2011 – Apr 2012 $28,820
• K. Collins, A. Hogue, B. Kapralos, N. Randall, S. Stacey. Exploring interactivity and immersion with multi-platform games. Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC), Standard Research Grants. Apr 2011 – Mar 2014 $157,650
• B. Kapralos (with industrial partner Enviroquest Inc.). Incidence response serious game. Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). Apr 2011 – Mar 2012 $50,000
• B. Kapralos, K. Collins, A. Hogue, and M. Green. Interactive games Ontario 3D (iGO3D). Ontario Centres of Excellence, Industry Academia Collaboration Program Technical Problem Solving (TPS). Apr 2011- Oct 2012 $24,975
• Hogue, B. Kapralos, K. Collins, M. Owen, M. Green, R. Allison, W. Stuerzlinger, S. Mataija, and M. Katchabaw. Interactive games Ontario 3D (iGO3D). Ontario Media Development Corporation, Entertainment & Creative Cluster Partnership Funds. Apr 2011– Oct 2012 $260,000
• A. Hogue, B. Kapralos, and J. Friedlan. An interactive case-study simulation engine framework for business and accounting education. Ontario Centres of Excellence, Industry Academia Collaboration Program Technical Problem Solving (TPS). Oct 2010- Jun 2011 $25,000
• K. Collins, B. Kapralos, A. Hogue, and J-M. Trivi. Experimenting with distributed audio applications on mobile phones. Google Faculty Research Award. Jul 2010– Jul 2011 $47,000
• A. Hogue, J, Friedlan, and B. Kapralos. Development of an interactive accounting game. Certified General Accountants of Ontario (CGAO). Jun 2010– Jun 2011 $66,500
• A. Dubrowski, J. Pirie, B. Kapralos, L. Grierson, and H. Carnahan. Testing the effectiveness of an Internet mediated, video based, educational networking instrument in preparing trainees for simulationbased teaching of fundamental technical skills: A randomized control study. The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Apr 2010– Apr 2011 $23,882
• H. Taki, H. Nonaka, J. Vassileva, M. Jenkin, M. Todorova, K. Collins, B. Kapralos, A. Hogue, S. Sakai, H. Inokawa, and K. Kanev. Multimedia interaction interfaces in collaborative e-Learning environments. Cooperative Research Project at Research Institute of Electronics (RIE), Shizuoka University, Japan. Mar 2010– Mar 2011 $12,000
• C. Conati, J. Jensen, R. Biddle, E. Lank, L. Hughes, A. Antle, B. Kapralos, and R. Wakkary. Digital games for learning and training. A project in the $23M Networks of Centres of Excellence (NCE) Graphics Animation and New Media Network (GRAND) pan-university research project. Jan 2010– Dec 2015 $90,000
• to B.Kapralos B. Kapralos, A. Dubrowski, M. Hogan, C. Mallette, A. Hogue, W. Shi, S. Goldsworthy. Development of a virtual learning environment for interprofessional education in critical care. Inukshuk Wireless Content Development Projects. Nov 2009 – Aug 2011 $132,727
• K. Collins, and B. Kapralos. Sound on smart tables: An pilot study of methods in sonic interaction design. Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, Research Development Initiative. Jul 2009 – Jul 2011 $37,162
• M. Jenkin, L. Harris, R. Herpers, R. Allison, and B. Kapralos. The perception of self-motion in virtual environments. Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (Transcoop Program, Canada-Germany). Jul 2009 – Jul 2012 $54,967
• EUR B. Kapralos. Streaming knowledge, sharing, and advanced interfaces. IBM Center for Advanced Studies (CAS) Faculty Award. Jun 2009 – Jun 2010 $10,000
• N. Matsuda, T. Hirashima, J. Vassileva, B. Kapralos, K. Collins, M. Yoneya, K. Kanev, and H. Inokawa. Multimedia interaction interfaces in collaborative e-Learning environments. Cooperative Research Project, Research Institute of Electronics, Shizuoka University, Japan. Mar 2009 – Mar 2010 $11,962
• B. Kapralos, M. Hogan, B. Muirhead, and A. Dubrowski. Interactive community simulation environment for public health curriculums. Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) Image, Text, Sound, and Technology (ITST). Feb 2009 – Feb 2010 $47,404
• A. Dubrowski, M. Barry, H. Carnahan, B. Kapralos, J. MacDonaldJenkins, D. Rose, O. Safir, and D. Backstein. Effectiveness of an internet mediated, networked learning instrument in simulation based training of clinical tasks. The Network of Excellence in Simulation for Clinical Teaching and Learning, Innovations and Evaluation Projects. Feb 2009- Feb 2010 $37,128
• B. Kapralos. Computational acoustics for virtual environments. National Science and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) Discovery Grant. May 2008 – Apr 2013 $79,500
• Past and Current Research Grants and Funding (Internal (UOIT) Funding Sources)
• B. Kapralos. A gamified educational network to foster collaborative learning. UOIT Teaching Innovation Fund. Apr 2015 – Mar 2016 $8,000
• M. DiGiuseppe, R. Simpson, and B. Kapralos. A serious game for phlebotomy training. UOIT Teaching Innovation Fund. Apr 2015 – Mar 2016 $8,000
• L. Nacke, B. Kapralos, and A. Hogue. Tele-Doolio: A gamified online to-do list system for project-based teaching and learning. UOIT Teaching Innovation Fund. Apr 2013 – Mar 2014 $7,460
• A. Hogue, B. Kapralos, and N. Nacke. Interactive learning objects for linear algebra and physics. UOIT Teaching Innovation Fund. Apr 2012 – Mar 2013 $6,993
• B. Kapralos, A. Hogue, and W. Shi. WildMagic+: A high-quality industry-standard open-source game engine framework. UOIT Teaching Innovation Fund. Apr 2009- Mar 2010 $7,100
• Hogue, B. Kapralos, and W. Shi. Generalized framework for interactive learning objects with application to linear algebra and physics. UOIT Teaching Innovation Fund. Apr 2009- Mar 2010 $7,100
• M. Vargas-Martin, and B. Kapralos. Using sonification to enhance teaching and learning of network intrusion detection. UOIT Teaching Innovation Fund. Apr 2009- Mar 2010 $7,100
• B. Kapralos, and M. Hogan. Interactive community simulation environment for public health curriculums. UOIT Teaching Innovation Fund. Apr 2008- Mar 2009 $7,000
• A. Hogue, B. Kapralos, and J. Friedlan. Interactive simulation environment for accounting education. UOIT Teaching Innovation Fund. Apr 2008- Mar 2009 $7,000