Posting Expiry
Research program title
Children’s Virtual Play: Developing Identity and Resilience in Early Childhood
Reference number
4011
Supervisors
Sandra Chang-Kredl and Vivek Venkatesh
Program description
Resilience in online worlds begins with children developing their self-knowledge and sense of empathy (projectsomeone.ca). The postdoc will examine the influence of digital technologies on young children and their play worlds, in order to generate new knowledge on children's identities in online worlds and the role of media literacy in resilience-building. Specifically, the postdoc will: 1) Investigate the processes through which young children’s identities are formed in and influenced by online environments, through conducting qualitative observational research on children’s symbolic play in virtual spaces; 2) Conduct theoretical research on the links between children’s identity construction, virtual play, and practices that build resilience in online communities; and 3) Develop, evaluate and disseminate curriculum strategies for teachers and resource material for parents of young children. The postdoc will contribute a substantive interdisciplinary approach in each of these areas.
Academic qualifications required
PhD in Early Childhood Education, Child Psychology, Educational Technology, Child Studies or related fields, with experience in qualitative research methodologies, digital technology studies, or early childhood education.
Eligibility requirements
- Applicants must not currently hold a postdoctoral appointment at Concordia
- Priority will be given to postdoctoral fellows who have obtained their PhD from another university although in exceptional cases Concordia graduates may be considered
- Applicants must adhere to the postdoctoral fellow eligibility criteria outlined in Concordia University’s Postdoctoral Policy
Timeline and application process
- Application deadline: Open until the position is filled but no later than April 1, 2018
- Fellowship start date: No later than July 1, 2018
- Submission process: All documents must be submitted to Cynthia Raso
- Please include the reference number with your application
Application checklist
- One to three (1-3) page research statement demonstrating fit with the program described above.
- Current curriculum vitae demonstrating research excellence and a capacity for leadership in the domain (maximum 5 pages).
- Two letters of reference from academic supervisors or current employers to be sent via e-mail directly to Cynthia Raso
Value
The prestigious Horizon Postdoctoral Fellowships are valued at $47,500 per year plus benefits and full access to Concordia’s services, including GradProSkills.
Concordia University is a vibrant research and teaching environment, with state-of-the-art research facilities and many research centers. Concordia is located in Montreal, Canada, a diverse and creative city, often ranked as offering one of the best quality of living experiences in North America.