This project will include recruitment, data collection and analysis of semi-structured interviews based on experiences of LGBT+ students.
Department: Psychology
Supervised by: Dr Allan Laville
The primary aim of this project is to explore the experiences of Undergraduate LGBT+ students studying at the University of Reading. Attending University can be a daunting process for any student however, it can be argued that as an LGBT+ student, it is important to be yourself whilst completing academic studies. Previous research has shown that being your true self within work contributes to overall wellbeing however, further research should explore how being your true self when studying at University contributes to overall wellbeing. The PI will support the student in researching relevant sources that highlight why the experiences of LGBT+ students should be considered. This will include a focused discussion on the Equality Act (2010) as well as relevant research papers in academic journals. The placement will include engaging with other students and completing research on a real-life issue.
This placement will involve the student engaging in: 1. Recruitment of participants, namely LGBT+ students who are completing their studies at the University of Reading. This will be done by email as well as printed advertisements in Schools. 2. Data collection: This will involve conducting 20-minute semi-structured interviews with participants. 3. Analysis: This is a qualitative project which will use thematic analysis. 4. Project report write-up.
The student should have some knowledge of the LGBT+ research literature. The student should have good communication skills and some experience of data collection.
The student will develop skills in a) advertisements for participant recruitment, b) good quality data collection and data entry, c) the student will receive training in how to conduct thematic analysis, and d) develop report writing skills.
The student will be provided desk space and PC access within the School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences.
Regular hours of work i.e. 9am - 5pm
Monday 17 June 2019 - Friday 26 July 2019
*Please note, this project closes for applications at 12pm on Friday 5th April*. The post will be advertised centrally on the UROP website between 25th February and 5th April 2019. We will ask students to apply by sending a CV and statement to the PI (click on supervisor name at the top of the page for email). Interviews will take place on the 16th April 2019. The PI will conduct the interviews and provide feedback for those who are unsuccessful.