Digital literacy, “the ability to find, evaluate and communicate information on digital platforms” (Wikipedia, 2022), is one of the key skills needed by all levels of workers in the 21st century economy. Growth sectors such as renewable energy, software development, finance and the health sectors make particularly strong demands on digital skills in addition to the traditional reading, writing and maths skills.
The research will investigate the level of digital literacy demanded by employers and the supply of skills among those entering the workforce. An analysis of job advertisements will be followed up with interviews with recruitment professionals in a sample of industries in Scotland. The researcher will also examine the digital literacy skills of apprentices and college leavers entering the workforce, starting with an examination of the digital skills elements of their qualifications.
The study will compare approaches to digital literacy in the workforce in Denmark, a country with a similar population to Scotland, but a more productive economy. Evidence of the effect of digital literacy skills will come from the comparative study and will look at school leaving qualifications, post-school qualifications, employer demands and skills development in the workplace (work-based learning and apprenticeships).
The research aims to address the following questions: What is the level of digital literacy of individuals entering the workforce? What are employers’ perceptions of digital literacy requirements? What are the gaps in digital literacy of entrants to the workforce? How does the support available to develop digital literacy skills impact on productivity?
The research will inform skills development policy in Scotland in collaboration with Skills Development Scotland. The comparative study will also identify examples of implementation that will contribute to improved prospects for those entering the workforce and enhance national productivity.
Eligibility:
Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Applicants will have a first degree (undergraduate) at 2:1 or above and have a demonstrable interest in the topic area under investigation.
- Applicants can have a Masters degree, however this is not a requirement.
- Applicants can study part-time or full-time.
Please note that all applicants must also meet the ESRC eligibility criteria. ESRC eligibility information can be found here.
Applications will be ranked by an internal institutional selection panel, and you will be notified if you have been shortlisted for interview on or around 23rd April 2023. Interviews will be in person (unless you are based overseas) and will take place on 4th May 2023.
This studentship award is subject to the successful candidate securing admission to a PhD programme within Edinburgh Napier University. The successful candidate will be invited to apply for admission to the relevant PhD programme.
If you are interested in applying to the listed PhD studentship, please visit the site below, select the PhD studentship your are interested in and follow the further instructions provided under the "How to Apply" section.
https://www.sgsss.ac.uk/studentships/current-opportunities/
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