Understanding Wellbeing Challenges for University Students During Crisis Disruption

Project Outline:

Australian university students have encountered unique challenges in the wake of crises such as bushfires and COVID-19. Globally pre-2020, one in five university students experienced poor wellbeing. In Australia, youth age 15-24 have the highest prevalence of psychological distress. Disruption from crises further affects students’ wellbeing, underscoring the need to understand students’ challenges and concerns. This study will inform the development of courses of action to better support university students in crises, especially those students already facing disadvantage or emerging disadvantage, and will provide recommendations for higher education institutions to address the wellbeing needs and challenges posed by crises disruption.

• Interest in sleep and wellbeing
• Lockdown home schooling and wellbeing and efficacy as a coach during home schooling
• Academic self- efficacy and wellbeing
• Gratitude and wellbeing

Desired Skills: There is already qualitative and quantitative data that can be analysed. Have data from parents in 2020 and experiences as a home school coach.  Also data around sleep and wellbeing and efficacy and wellbeing. So qualitative skills. Knowledge of R, SPSS or Mplus would be beneficial but willingness to learn desirable.

Project Area: Education – Psychology- Social Work

Supervisor(s): Lynette Vernon

Project level: Masters and PhD

Funding: Applicant should apply for ECUHDR or RTP Scholarship

Start date: Ongoing