Most research on screen use has focused on the amount of time children spend watching TV and shows too much time on screens is linked with a range of negative effects on health and development.
New research shows not all screen use is “bad”. How children use screens matters. For example, what they watch (e.g. educational or violent content), who they use screens with (e.g. alone or with a parent or sibling) and what they do on screens (e.g. playing games vs. watching shows) can all influence children’s development differently – both positive and negative. But there is little research on how toddlers use screens, how this impacts their development or how parents influence this.
We envisage this PhD could include studies exploring how toddlers use screens, the impact of this on their development, and the modifiable parental factors that influence this (e.g. rules, confidence). The PhD will work towards the development of strategies for parents to promote their toddlers’ healthy screen use behaviours. There is scope to shape the PhD project according to the selected candidate’s interests.
Supervisors
- Dr Amanda Machell, Deakin University Postdoctoral Research Fellow
- Prof Kylie Hesketh, Heart Foundation Future Leader Fellow
Location
Burwood, Victoria
Eligibility criteria
- Applicants must meet Deakin’s PhD entry requirements, be enrolling full time and hold an Honours degree (First Class) or an equivalent standard Master’s degree with a substantial research component (including a Thesis component). Please refer to the entry pathways to higher degrees by research for further information.
- The opportunity is open to domestic and international students
- Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree with Honours or a Master’s degree with research component in health promotion, public health, psychology, exercise science or related field.
- Applicants must have experience in quantitative and/or qualitative methodology.
- Fluency in verbal and written English (evidence of English proficiency is required), highly motivated and able to work in a multidisciplinary team.
Key dates and other information
- Start date: We are looking for a suitable candidate to start as soon as possible.
- Scholarship: We will work with suitably qualified applicants to apply for scholarship funding.
- To apply: Refer to our How to apply for a research degree webpage for more information.
For more information please contact Dr Amanda Machell via email: a.machell@deakin.edu.au