A new model for information literacies of community representatives

Direct participation has been an important threat in democracy for some decades now. However, the ideals of widespread individual participation are often in reality under threat of hijacking by a minority of self-efficacious individuals. As a result community representatives often take on the role of seeking information from officials/government then sharing it with communities, and vice versa (Hall, Cruickshank & Ryan, 2018; de Souza et al, 2022). Some (such as community councillors) are formally appointed, others are members of local voluntary and religious (e.g. church) groups.

Our past research has established that community representatives occupy a zone between elected representation and citizenship, the workplace and volunteering, and occupy a mix of physical, digital and blended spaces (Acedo et al, 2019; Cruickshank et al, 2020; Marzoukou & Abdi, 2017). They are generally seen as part of civil society – that is, they are different from elected representatives at local authority or government levels. They work in a multi-channel context, mixing inperson and digital communication, so the concept of hyperlocal representation can be a useful definition in this context, defined as: “The actions of representations in the context of the lowest level of democracy: digitally enabled, geographically based, community-oriented and intended to promote civic engagement”.

Past research has identified that community representatives face significant informational barriers in (a) learning about their role (b) understanding the information needs of the communities served and (c) gathering and sharing information about local issues with stakeholders. Information literacy (IL) represents one approach to investigating these topics (Cope, 2010; Saunders, 2017). However, although there are IL models that cover citizens, the workplace, and everyday life, there is no obvious model that accounts for the information activities of community representatives.

This PhD project will develop a new model of information practices and literacies for community representation. The Research Questions that this project will therefore address are:

1. What information practices are involved in understanding the role, and (information) needs of the communities served?
2. How do community representatives navigate between sharing information with their communities, campaigning and liaising with government?
3. How do existing models of literacies apply to the information practices of community representatives as they work jointly?

The research will be conducted within the social informatics research group, where the PhD student can will join a lively and support community of researchers. The group was highly rated in the recent REF2021 assessment exercise, with a very strong research environment. We have excellent international links and a good track record of working collaboratively with partners in the UK and around the world.

Perspective applicants are encouraged to contact the Supervisor before submitting their applications. Applications should make it clear the project you are applying for and the name of the supervisors.

Academic qualifications

A first-class honours degree, or a distinction at master level, or equivalent achievements in Information science or an allied subject, alternatively, a background in studying community representation (e.g., through politics or sociology).

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 concepts in information science research and/or participatory democracy or community groups
• Competent in mixed research techniques including interviewing, document analysis, focus groups, and surveys
• Knowledge of and interest in community groups and how they operate
• Good written and oral communication skills
• Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project
• Good time management

Desirable attributes

• The ability to work comfortably with people with a range of ages and backgrounds

Application process

Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the supervisor, Dr Peter Cruickshank ([email protected]) to discuss the content of the project and the fit with their qualifications and skills before preparing an application. 

The application must include: 

Research project outline of 2 pages (list of references excluded). The outline may provide details about

• Background and 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.
• Research questions or
• Methodology: types of data to be used, approach to data collection, and data analysis methods.
• 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.
• Recent and complete curriculum vitae. The curriculum must include a declaration regarding the English language qualifications of the candidate.
• Supporting documents will have to be submitted by successful candidates.
• Two academic references (but if you have been out of education for more than three years, you may submit one academic and one professional reference), on the form can be downloaded here.

Applications can be submitted here.

Download a copy of the project details here.