The social impact of mis-information or dis-information

About the Project

This is an open call for research proposals related to topics of mis-information or dis-information in social influence. Proposals should focus on the ways in which mis- and dis-information impact human information behaviours and practices in a social or societal context. This work will be anchored in the domain of Information Science with a focus on human information behaviour, information seeking and use, or social informatics and online information.

All relevant applications are welcome; however, we are especially interested in proposals that consider human information behaviours in the context of:

• The impact of social media influencers on health and wellbeing
• The impact of information literacy on elections and politics
• The spread of conspiracy theories and fringe belief systems online
• The impact of “response” or “stitch” content creation in combating mis- and dis-information

This work should further our understanding of the ways in which people interact with online information in their everyday lives, and the impact that such information and human information behaviours have on society.

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 Library and Information Science (or similar) with a good fundamental knowledge of information-based concepts related to information literacy, digital literacy, and the use or sharing of information online.

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 principles of social science or information sciences
• Competent in qualitative research methods and data anaylsis
• Knowledge of online environments, applications, and tools (beyond casual use of social networking sites)
• Good written and oral communication skills
• Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project
• Good time management

Desirable attributes:

• Intellectual curiosity with a willingness to consider new and different perspectives
• Experience with both qualitative and quantitative research methods

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