Enhancing User Support for Complex Online Information Tasks

About the Project

In situations where users are faced with online tasks that require to follow a linear process, such as visa applications or medical health checks, current online facilities offer sufficient support. However, more work can be done for users that fail to find suitable information they need or fully interact with such facilities.

Furthermore, in cases of non-linear processes, where outcomes are more subjective and often dependent on a user’s experience and capabilities in identifying when enough information has been obtained or a task has been resolved, there remains opportunities to support users from a systematic, educational and skills based perspective.

A PhD candidate will explore these opportunities to design and develop a user focused solution in a suitable context, to be determined with support from the supervisory team. For example, a student could use a wide range of methods and techniques to identify, design, develop and evaluate a solution to support users in their information interactions.

Academic qualifications

Have, or expect to achieve by the time of start of the studentship a first-class honours degree, or a distinction at master level, ideally in Computer Science or Library and Information Systems with a good fundamental knowledge of systems design and user centred information systems.

English language requirement

IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s policy are available online.

Essential attributes:

• Experience of fundamental Information Science.
• Competent in mixed methods data collection and analysis.
• Knowledge of user focused system design.
• Good written and oral communication skills
• Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project
• Good time management

Desirable attributes:

• A strong interest in information seeking behaviours.
• Experience of prototype design and development skills.
• Knowledge of, or a willingness to gain a working knowledge of, Machine Learning.

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

• Completed application form
• CV
• 2 academic references, using the Postgraduate Educational Reference Form (download)
• Research project outline of 2 pages (list of references excluded). The outline may provide details about:
  1. Background and motivation of the project. The motivation, explaining the importance of the project, should be supported also by relevant literature. You can also discuss the applications you expect for the project results.
  2. Research questions or objectives.
  3. Methodology: types of data to be used, approach to data collection, and data analysis methods.
  4. List of references.

The outline must be created solely by the applicant. Supervisors can only offer general discussions about the project idea without providing any additional support.

• Statement no longer than 1 page describing your motivations and fit with the project.
• Evidence of proficiency in English (if appropriate)

To be considered, the application must use

• the advertised title as project title

For informal enquiries about this PhD project, please contact Dr Brazier - d.brazier@napier.ac.uk