Research assistant – casual position
Start date: April 21, 2025
Application deadline: April 14, 2025
Supervisor: Dr. Bob Heller
Faculty: Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Overview
Specific activities include, but are not limited to
This project involves the analysis of data from the Online Learning Survey was completed by students in PSYC 228, 289, and 290 for their course research participation activity between Feb 15, 2020 and May 1, 2024 (n=3753) under the direction of Andrew Chiarella and Bob Heller. (Project End Report submitted to REB June 4, 2024).
The survey included sections on
- demographic information, academic background and current study,
- online course experiences and
- educational technology use,
- general technology use and
- video game play, and
- study strategies related to annotation and note-taking
This project is focused on sections 3 and 4 to explore whether there are changes in educational and general technological use and attitudes that occur over the 4 year window of data collection. Information from Section 1 will be used for possible grouping analyses. Given the rapidly changing landscape of educational technology and technology in general, we are interested in whether all technologies are gaining in popularity or usage or whether there were differences emerging even within this short window of data collection. Moreover, data collection began just prior to the onset of the pandemic and continued well after its conclusion. The patterns of technological usage over this time period would also be informative around public health policy.
The primary job duties for the field research assistant (RA Category 1) will include applied statistical practice involving SPSS and an overview of both descriptive statistics for display and inferential statistics for decision making. Students will also participate in the preparation of a report for presentation and possible publication.
The successful candidate will work with, and directly report to, Dr. Heller at Athabasca University. Dr. Heller will provide adequate training for the SPSS knowledge acquisition and application (as measured by weekly assignment completion). Dr. Heller will supervise lab meetings and provide mentorship in the preparation of a report for presentation and possible publication.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will be in the third or fourth year of their psychology program with completed coursework in (1) Statistics and (2) Research Methods.
How to apply
Qualified individuals are encouraged to submit their application by email to Dr. Heller at bobh@athabascau.ca. Applications should include (as a single PDF file) a brief cover letter that summarizes your skills, interests and experience; a current resume or curriculum vitae; an unofficial copy of your transcript; and the contact information for 1‐2 references. Evaluation of applications will begin immediately and will continue until a suitable candidate is found. All applicants are thanked for their interest in this position; however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Athabasca University and the researchers are committed and seek to support equity in employment and research opportunities. We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous people, people of colour, people with disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+ people, women, and other historically marginalized groups. Applicants are welcome, but not required, to self‐identify in their letter of application.
For more information on this Research Assistant Opportunity, please contact Bob Heller, PhD at the coordinates below, on or before April 14, 2025.
Hours per week are approximate and may vary based upon activity. This position has a maximum of 40 hours.
Bob Heller
bobh@athabascau.ca