People with Intellectual Disabilities (PWID) are more likely to be infected with COVID-19 and to have severe respiratory health outcomes compared to the general population. Asthma is twice as prevalent in people with intellectual disabilities and is likely to lead to higher rates of hospital admissions compared to the general population. PWID with asthma and their carers need to build capacity to self-manage this condition. Research undertaken in the general population has consistently indicated that written asthma action plans improve clinical outcomes. It is not known how action plans could be used by PWID or their carers.
We are proposing a two phased mixed methods doctoral study to address this gap. Phase 1 could explore: (i) PWID’s and caregivers’ views, knowledge, and experiences of asthma, for example awareness of environmental triggers for asthma and, (ii) their support needs in order to self-manage asthma. Phase 1 could be completed using interviews, focus groups and/or surveys. The use of specific methods could depend on the candidate’s interests and intended focus of the project. Phase 2 could inform development and co-production of a personalised asthma self-management action plan for use by PWID and their carers.
This doctoral project provides a unique opportunity to contribute to a respiratory programme of research focusing on those with intellectual disabilities that is being developed at Edinburgh Napier University (ENU). The supervisory team consists of those with a background of working with PWID (Dr O’Leary and Dr Finlayson) and in the use of asthma action plans /respiratory health (Professor Nicola Ring and Dr Nicola Roberts). Dr O’Leary is affiliated with the Health Social Care Sciences group and Professor Ring is affiliated with the Nursing subject group. The successful candidate will have access to networks and expertise within both subject groups and universities. The successful candidate will also gain membership of the Centre for Mental Health Practice Policy and Law Research.
Academic qualifications
A first degree (at least a 2.1) ideally in a health or social care discipline with a good fundamental knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods
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 qualitative and quantitative research method
· Competent in literature searching
· Knowledge of and experience of working with vulnerable groups
· Good written and oral communication skills
· Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project
· Good time management
Desirable attributes:
· Knowledge and/or experience of working with individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma
· MSc in research methods or similar postgraduate qualification
· Experience of using quantitative and/or qualitative research methods such as surveys, questionnaires, interviews or focus groups
· Experience of using quantitative and/or qualitative data analysis software such as NVivo and/or SPSS
To apply, please click on the ‘Institution Website’ link on the right-hand side of this page When applying, please quote the application reference SHSC0037 on your form. APPLICATION CHECKLIST
· Completed application form
· CV
· 2 academic references, using the Postgraduate Educational Reference Form (Found on the application process page)
· Brief proposal (2 pages maximum) with the following headings: Background, Research Questions, Method AND Anticipated Outcomes
· Evidence of proficiency in English (if appropriate)
Continue with Facebook
