About

Hello! I’m Alisa Acosta. I’m the Director of Research and Education at the Blockchain Research Institute (BRI), where I am dedicated to exploring and sharing knowledge about the strategic implications of emerging technologies on business, government, and society.  

I have a PhD in the field of Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning from the University of Toronto. My research focused on the design of learning analytics, intelligent agents, immersive simulations, tangible media, and “smart classroom” architectures to support active learning in face-to-face contexts.

Prior to this, I was also a high school science and math teacher with the Toronto District School Board, where I had the privilege of working with students from one of the most diverse and multicultural cities in the world.

In my current role at BRI, lead the strategic direction and execution of BRI’s global research and education portfolios, delivering evidence-based insights on emerging technology, policy, and future skills to business and government leaders worldwide.

Other interests include mashup-making, beekeeping, and sustainable house design.

alisa’s acknowledgement

I acknowledge that I am privileged in many ways. While I’ve worked hard throughout my life, I recognize that I’ve had advantages which provided me with opportunities that other people did not have.

I acknowledge that I am a racial being with a particular and limited perspective on race. I am committed to educating myself and understanding, with humility, the realities of racialized intersectional groups through authentic interactions, and will take action to address my own racism and the racism embedded in our institutions. 

I acknowledge that the story of Canada that I was taught in school was not the whole story. I honour the Indigenous people who continue to demonstrate their talents and gifts amidst a backdrop of ongoing colonialism and oppression. 

I acknowledge that disapproving of unjust systems won’t be enough to change them. I am committed to using my knowledge and privilege to help ‘make room’ for marginalized voices, and put into practice anti-racist power and policies.