Qualifications

BSc (hons) Geographical Science; PGC ODE; PhD

Research interests

Broadly speaking my research interests focus on social inclusion and inclusion in a variety of contexts; these contexts include geography, technology and disability.  What these contexts have in common is education and people’s experiences of it.  Specifically, research projects have included: research into young people’s experiences of rural schools; e-learning in rural areas; older people’s experience of evacuation in relation to geography and education; development of the 14-19 curriculum.

Research ethics is a fundamental part of any research project and this is my particular area of interest in terms of good research practice and researching what others views on current research ethics are.  For example, I am currently interested in researching post graduate students’ views and application of research ethics to their theses and also the challenges faced by some tutors when ‘teaching’ research ethics.

My research approach has been varied ranging from large-scale surveys to small interview-based qualitative research projects with a particular interest in action-research.

Teaching Interests

My teaching interests have been largely involved with post-graduate students.  This includes: research methods for our doctoral researchers; and teaching on the MA in IT and Education.  Both of these areas strongly reflect my research interests.

Responsibilities held within the School

I am currently Head of Student Development and Support – the aim is to ensure that appropriate mechanisms are in place to support all our students and to help them work towards their long terms objectives.

Chair – ethics committee. This links closely with my research interests

Previously, I was Deputy Director of Studies – PGR.

Publications [pdf]