After graduating with a BSc (Hons) Physics and Electronics in 1998, I joined the psychology department at Staffordshire University. The role of Psychology Technical Skills Specialist continues to provide me with many new challenges, whilst offering me the opportunity to develop professionally. In 2014 it was a great honour to be awarded the HEA Psychology Technician of the Year, presented at the HEA STEM Annual Learning and Teaching Conference in Edinburgh – it is certainly a role I enjoy immensely.
During my time as a technician I have been involved with the design, development, and operation of the psychology laboratories based within the newly built Science Centre. Having successfully completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher and Professional Education (PgCHPE), I worked towards the development and integration of technical skills practical sessions within theory based modules, e.g. the use of the bio-potential amplifiers within Research Methods; equipping undergraduate students with key practical skills and enhancing the student learning experience. Currently I’m involved with the development and integration of immersive technology within teaching and learning. I am passionate about promoting Science and Psychology to the wider community, often I design and demonstrate psychology based experiments at open days and public facing events.
I have been a member of the Association of Technical Staff in Psychology (ATSiP) since 2008, having presented at conference on several occasions. In 2015 it was a privilege to work towards securing Staffordshire University as the host venue for the Association of Technical Staff in Psychology 3-day annual conference. In 2018 I successfully gained Registered Scientist status (RSci) via the Institute of Science and Technology, from this I aim to champion the diverse skill set and professional practice of technical support staff working within the higher education sector.
Professional memberships and activities
Registered Scientist (RSci)
Fellow Member of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)
Member of the Institute of Science and Technology (MiST)
Member of the ATSiP (Association of Technical Staff in Psychology)
Academic qualifications
Postgraduate Certificate in Higher and Professional Education (PgCHPE), Staffordshire University, 2012
BSc (Hons) Physics & Electronics (2:1), Staffordshire University, 1998
Expertise
Technical Skills Delivery
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Delivery of specialist technical skills sessions to facilitate the teaching and learning of psychology related experimental disciplines.
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Provide formal technical instruction and support to facilitate the design, acquisition, and analysis of psychology research projects.
Specialist Psychology Software and Application
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Experiment building software (e.g. SuperLab, Eprime, Experiment Builder).
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Data acquisition software (e.g. Qualtrics, Turning Point, Compass).
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Programming script and use of specialist syntax code.
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Data analysis software (e.g. Biopac, Data Viewer, SPSS).
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Observation software (e.g. AprilAge, DartFish).
Specialist Psychology Hardware
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Experimental inventory (e.g. Eylink1000 Eyetracker, Cold Pressor).
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Stimulus response peripherals (Cedrus response boxes, voice key, CoVAS).
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Data communication equipment (Stim Tracker, TTL Logic, Comms Interfacing).
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Digital observation equipment (e.g. Observation cameras, mixing desks).
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Portable learning technologies (iPads, Turning Point).
Medical Instrumentation
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Biopac (multi-channel physiological recording equipment).
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NeuroSensory Analyser (hot and cold pain stimulus).
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Ambulatory monitors (e.g. Blood Pressure, Activity, Sleep Monitors)
Research interests
Development of technical provision to enhance the student learning experience.
Identifying current psychology related media trends to inform and design interactive psychology based demonstrations.
To investigate and optimise technology for current and future research projects.