This PhD investigates how Australian families experience social media and the impacts on children aged 8–17.
This PhD project will investigate Australian families' social media experiences and the associated impacts on children aged 8-17. It will reframe the thinking about children's social media experiences as shaped by familial, social, and technical contexts. Expected outcomes include knowledge about the experiences of families navigating the complexities of social media and a theoretical innovation for understanding the impacts of social media on children. In the context of a legislated ban on some social media for children under 16, this work benefits governments, families, and children by providing evidence-based policy directions and resources to promote safe and age-appropriate media experiences.
Faculty: Faculty of Arts, Society and Business
Study area: Education
Student type: Domestic students, International students
Student status: Future Students
Scholarship amount
UOW Base Rate ($36,943 per annum for 2026)
Duration
3.5 years
Application process
Apply for this scholarship at the same time you apply for admission to a UOW Research degree/Doctor of Philosophy Education
The first step is to email Dr Tiffani Apps tiffani_app@uow.edu.au detailing your academic and research background, your motivation to research in this field and interest in this scholarship, and include your CV.
Eligibility requirements
You need to meet the entry requirements for a UOW Research degree/Doctor of Philosophy (Education) including any English language requirements.
Enrol as a full time, internal student (unless approval for part-time and/or external study is obtained).
You must commence your degree by August 2026.
Have a completed Master of Philosophy, Honours degree, or equivalent postgraduate qualification in education, media and communication, digital communication, or a closely related field.
An interest in mixed-methods research, including large-scale survey design and interview research. Experience working with children and/or families is essential.
Application closing date
30 June 2026
Contact information
Dr Tiffani Apps