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PhD Scholarship in Wellbeing and Education

Embark on a groundbreaking PhD journey exploring the intersection of wellbeing, writing communities, and podcast studies through the lens of Shut Up & Write! (SUAW). This innovative research project delves into SUAW as a transformative professional self-care strategy in higher education, investigating its impact on writer wellbeing and the formation of supportive academic communities. By capturing real-life experiences through podcasting, you'll uncover rich insights into how SUAW fosters belonging, resilience, and positive emotions among writers. Drawing from diverse wellbeing sciences, you'll examine SUAW's role in cultivating sustainable writing practices and nurturing creativity. This unique opportunity blends theoretical research with practical application, potentially reshaping approaches to wellbeing and writing in academia. 1 position is available to work with VC Professoriate Research Fellow Professor Narelle Lemon within the School of Education.


Important dates

Opens: 9-09-2024 Closes: 15-11-2024

Applies to

Postgraduate Research

Overview

Teachers of tomorrow choose ECU’s School of Education because we are leaders in teacher education and education research. With over 5000 students and a proud history of teacher education since 1902, the School has consistently been recognised as one of the highest-ranking schools of education in Australia for student satisfaction. Our dedicated staff is committed to equipping aspiring and practicing teachers with the skills, knowledge and experiences to positively impact the lives of students and communities.  

Our teaching and research addresses the most critical challenges in the field, including teaching and learning; educational leadership; sport, health, and wellness; language, literacy, and numeracy; higher education pedagogy and curricular development; interdisciplinary and innovative research approaches; and educational equity in local, national, and international contexts.

An opportunity has arisen for suitably experienced and motivated emerging researchers to join the School of Education.

Research Project and PhD Scholarship Opportunity

Research Project: Exploring Shut Up & Write through Wellbeing, Writing Communities, and Podcasting

This PhD scholarship offers an exciting opportunity to investigate the innovative practice of Shut Up & Write! (SUAW) at the intersection of wellbeing, writing communities, and podcast studies. The successful candidate will conduct research that explores how SUAW functions as a professional self-care strategy in higher education contexts, with a particular focus on its impact on writer wellbeing and the formation of supportive writing communities.

The project will examine:

1. The role of SUAW in fostering wellbeing and self-care among academic writers

2. How SUAW cultivates a sense of belonging and resilience in writing communities

3. The impact of SUAW on nurturing positive emotions and sustainable writing practices

4. The application of diverse wellbeing sciences to support writers on their journeys

A key aspect of this research will involve capturing real-life experiences through podcasting. This innovative methodological approach will allow for rich, deep exploration of participants' lived experiences, providing valuable insights into the impact of SUAW on individual wellbeing and community building.

The successful candidate will contribute to the growing body of knowledge on wellbeing education, writing communities, and the use of digital media in academic research. This project aims to provide evidence-based strategies for implementing SUAW as a transformative practice in higher education and beyond.

We seek candidates with a strong background in wellbeing studies, writing education, or related fields, who also possess an interest in podcast production and digital storytelling. The ideal applicant will be passionate about exploring innovative approaches to academic writing and community building in higher education.

This scholarship offers a unique opportunity to blend theoretical research with practical application, potentially influencing future approaches to wellbeing and writing in academic contexts.

Selection guidelines

  • Academic qualifications:
    A Masters degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as wellbeing studies, education, psychology, writing studies, podcast studies, or communication
  • Research experience:
    Demonstrated experience in qualitative research methods 
    Familiarity with wellbeing theories and practices in educational contexts
  • Writing and communication skills:
    Excellent academic writing skills  Strong verbal communication abilities
  • Digital media skills:
    Experience with or strong interest in podcast production and digital storytelling 
    Familiarity with audio recording and editing software (desirable)
  • Community engagement:
    Experience in or enthusiasm for facilitating writing groups or communities
    Understanding of the principles of Shut Up & Write or similar writing practices
  • Analytical skills:
    Ability to synthesize complex information from diverse sources 
    Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
  • Personal attributes:
    Passion for exploring innovative approaches to academic writing and wellbeing
    Self-motivation and ability to work independently
    Adaptability and openness to interdisciplinary research
  • Language proficiency:
    High level of English language proficiency (both written and spoken)
  • Additional desirable qualities:
    Understanding of higher education contexts and challenges
    Interest in or experience with wellbeing education
    Familiarity with academic publishing processes

Terms and conditions

  • On campus is preferred option of study.
  • To be eligible for an stipend an applicant must not be receiving an equivalent award or scholarship from the Commonwealth designed to offset HDR fees
  • Completed at least four years of tertiary education studies
  • Meet all other minimum entry requirements according Edith Cowan PhD applications process

How to apply

Please send the documents below to Narelle Lemon

  • A statement of why this project is right for you
  • Response to selection criteria
  • Qualifications and academic transcripts
  • Curriculum Vitae

For more information

Questions about this scholarship can be directed to Narelle Lemon

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