Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 June 2024
Campus
Hobart
Citizenship requirement
Domestic
About the research project
The Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre at the University of Tasmania and Dementia Support Australia are working together to deliver the Dementia Respite Education and Mentoring (DREAM) project. DREAM's main goal is to boost the skills of the dementia respite care staff, supporting them to provide the best respite care for people living with dementia and their carers. DREAM comprises an online portal providing education about dementia, a community of practice supporting workforce development and access to mentoring from experienced coaches. DREAM provides a multifaceted approach to improve the experience of respite care for people living with dementia and those who care for them.
This PhD project will explore the effectiveness of DREAM learning materials and delivery design in improving workforce knowledge, attitudes and application of skills in delivering dementia respite care. Interaction with the components of the DREAM portal will be examined, qualitative and quantitative data will be collected via survey and in-depth interview on the impacts of the online education on knowledge, attitudes and care practices. The barriers and facilitators of uptake and application of education will be explored.
Respite care services are beneficial for both people living with dementia and their carers. However, historically uptake has been poor. The effectiveness of these services is dependent on a well-trained and knowledgeable dementia respite care team, a flexible and person-centred care approach, effective respite care planning and transition.
This mixed methods study will identify the key components of online education that can best support the respite care workforce and result in better outcomes for people living with dementia and their carers.
Primary Supervisor
Meet Dr Kathleen DohertyFunding
Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:
- a living allowance stipend of $32,192 per annum (2024 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
- a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
- a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)
If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Other funding opportunities and fees
For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit our Scholarships and fees on research degrees page.
Eligibility
Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.
Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:
- Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
Selection Criteria
The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.
Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:
- Undergraduate degree in Health or Education related field
Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:
- Understanding of the aged care sector
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact Dr Kathleen Doherty to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- In your application:
- Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
- Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
- Apply prior to 1 June 2024.
Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section of the Research Degrees website.
Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.
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