PhD scholarship for The Lab

Anyone know someone who might be interested in doing a three-year PhD scholarship with The Lab?

If so, the link to the application form is here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/z839oabrpduvphn/aiZw8vWfvc . The deadline for applications is July 31.

Here's the description:

The above application form relates to a VU & Young And Well CRC scholarship to undertake a specific PhD research project at Victoria University. This project will:

• generate new knowledge from and about an existing innovative technology project for young people with Asperger’s Syndrome and High Functioning Autism, and;
• develop innovative methodologies that accurately and ethically represent young people’s voices, including methodologies that involve the use of digital technologies.

The Lab (www.thelab.org.au) is a growing network of ‘technology clubs’ for young people with High Functioning Autism/Asperger’s Syndrome, as well as their parents and carers. Established in early 2011, The Lab currently caters for 60 families in Melbourne, 30 families in Sydney and 30 families in Geelong, with more locations underway. All Labs offer personal mentoring in technology by programming and design professionals, as well as the chance to meet others and develop social skills in a relaxed and supportive environment.

The focus of the PhD project will be:

·         The development of innovative, technology-informed research methodologies that respond to the needs of young people with High Functioning Autism, and that accurately reflect participants’ ‘voices’;

·         The use of these methodologies to (a) better understand how the Lab works, especially in its interaction of the technological and the social; and (b) develop cross-Lab evaluations that accurately capture impact on participants and families; and

·         The development of protocols and guidelines for new Labs that are designed to facilitate maximum positive impact, based on evaluation data.

Closing date is Wednesday 31 July 2013. Further information is available from Dr Stefan Schutt, Centre for Cultural Diversity & Wellbeing, Victoria University (Stefan.schutt@vu.edu.au)