UK; PhD Studentship Computing

An exploration of theoretical bases suitable for the design and development of serious games within the context of Change ringing.

Applications are invited for a fully-funded full-time studentship to work in the area of ‘serious games’ applied to the design and development of educational materials useful for school children with the context of ‘change ringing’. The studentship is sponsored by the University of Worcester and the Ringing Foundation.

The Ringing Foundation is a charitable trust whose aim is to raise the public awareness and understanding of change ringing (Cathedral and Church Bells). To support this aim this project will develop educational materials (such as virtual simulations of a bell tower) suitable for Primary and Secondary school children. There is currently a lack of theory on how to develop serious games based on sound educational principles. Through working with the Ringing Foundation, Computing at the University of Worcester and local schools, this project aims to generate theories which may inform the design of serious games. While the project emphasis is on educational theory and instructional design, there is also a significant amount of technical creative work using software such as 3DStudioMax and Unreal Editor (Unreal Tournament 2004).

The student will carry out research that will lead to the award of a higher research degree (MPhil/PhD). The student will carry out and report on an individual research study under the direction of Dr. Colin B. Price (Computing at Worcester University), Dr. Sue Howarth (Education at Worcester University), Prof. Bob Stone (Electronic Engineering, Birmingham University).

Applicants should have (or expect to receive) a 2.1 or above in a discipline connected with education such as teacher training and should be able to show a high level of computer literacy. While the study has an educational focus, it will involve the production of ‘Immersive Environments’ using computer game technology. Applicants should be willing to learn the software packages mentioned above. The successful applicant will receive a tax-free bursary of  £12,300 per annum from the University of Worcester plus a limited budget to support their research. Training in the required software will be provided.

For further details visit: http://www.worc.ac.uk/research/studentships

Application forms can be found here:http://www.worc.ac.uk/research/studentships

For an informal discussion about the studentship please feel free to contact Dr. Colin B. Price at c.price@worc.ac.uk or on 01905 542024.

For questions regarding the application process contact Mrs Helen Tabinor, Graduate Research School Manager (tel: 01905 855012, email:h.tabinor@worc.ac.uk).

Closing date for applications is 28th May 2009

Candidates will be invited for interview on 9th June 2009 (provisional).