THP FBF PhD student wins Bronze at International Research and Information Science Expo 2025

UTAR Teh Hong Piow Faculty of Business and Finance (THP FBF) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) student Shanthi Isparan was awarded the Bronze Award at the International Research and Information Science Expo 2025 (iRISE2025). Held online from 15 August 2024 to 15 January 2025, the event was organised by DIGIT360 in collaboration with Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Kelantan Branch.

iRISE2025 served as a prestigious digital platform aimed at nurturing a culture a culture of innovation in the field of teaching, learning, and beyond. The event welcomed participation from educators, librarians, students, and members of the public to showcase their research and innovations.

Supervised by THP FBF academic Assoc Prof Dr Seow Ai Na, Shanthi received recognition for her research project titled When AI Intervenes in Clinical Decision-Making: The Influence of Organisational Support, Cognitive Load, and Perceived Autonomy. Her study explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration in clinical settings affects decision-making among healthcare professionals. Drawing on Organisational Support Theory, Cognitive Load Theory, and Self-Determination Theory, the research examines the impact of organisational support and perceived autonomy on cognitive load and the adoption of AI in clinical decision-making. The study focuses on medical professionals in Malaysia and employs Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) for data analysis.

Her research contributes to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, by promoting innovation in healthcare delivery through AI; and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, by highlighting sustainable and inclusive innovation in clinical and organisational systems.

This recognition not only highlights Shanthi’s academic dedication but also reflects UTAR’s ongoing commitment to fostering research, innovation, and global engagement. The platform provided by iRISE2025 also enabled her to connect with international researchers and contribute to discussions on human-centred innovation and digital health transformation.

Expressing her gratitude, Shanthi said, “I am truly honoured to receive the Bronze Award at iRISE2025. This achievement would not have been possible without the support of my supervisor, Dr Seow Ai Na, whose guidance has been instrumental throughout my research journey. I also thank UTAR for nurturing a research-driven environment that continuously challenges and inspires. Participating in this competition has deepened my appreciation for interdisciplinary learning and the responsible use of technology in healthcare.”