Creating positive trajectories of health for children through motor competence using autonomy supporting collaborative gamified interventions

The Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences (CSELS) at the University of Coventry would like to invite applicants for this fully-funded PhD studentship entitled: Creating positive trajectories of health for children through motor competence using autonomy supporting collaborative gamified interventions.

This project will utilise a novel Action Research methodology to reduce barriers in children leading physically active lives and by upskilling primary school teachers in the UK.

The research will develop a cutting-edge gamified digital intervention focusing on autonomy support within school Physical Education (PE) to enhance motor skill development, intrinsic motivation for PE, physical activity, and physical activity behaviour.

A collaborative goal planning approach will focus on co-creation with teachers and pupils, that delivers an intervention that is autonomy supportive using self-determination theory as a framework and gamification strategies.

The research will subsequently trial a randomised pilot study of the intervention in British primary school children aged 5-9 years. The project will develop a cutting-edge intervention that will be useful in reducing the gaps in children’s health and development.

The project will involve some travel to school settings through the curriculum development process, data collection, and acceptability interviews with teachers, for which there is a generous allowance.

Entry criteria for applicants to PhD 

• A bachelor’s (honours) degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum classification of 2:1 and a minimum mark of 60% in the project element (or equivalent), or an equivalent award from an overseas institution.

PLUS 

• the potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within 3.5 years
• An adequate proficiency in English must be demonstrated by applicants whose first language is not English. The general requirement is a minimum overall IELTS Academic score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each of the four sections, or the TOEFL iBT test with a minimum overall score of 95 with a minimum of 21 in each of the four sections.

All applications require full supporting documentation, and a covering letter – plus up-to 2000-word supporting statement is required showing how the applicant’s expertise and interests are relevant to the project.

To find out more about the project please contact Prof. Michael Duncan via email: [Email Address Removed]