Northumbria University has an existing collaborative agreement with Neuron Scooters UK and is seeking a candidate to conduct a public sentiment study using a broad range of methods to utilise existing computational GPS data around geographies of inclusion, risk and use value, whilst drawing insights from route-maps (Geo-fencing) that shape travel decision and behaviours.
This approach will be combined with qualitative public perception data concerning e-scooter community identities and values, including environmental citizenship, access and inclusion and quality of life (QOL).
The study will aim to define how these issues of practice, use and social integration can combine to produce a rich conceptual model of e-scooter adoption. To meet this aim, the study will consider:
- How e-scooters contribute to the idea of an inclusive city.
- Use-perceived health and wellbeing benefits of e-scooter use.
- The value of e-scooters in the narrative of environmental awareness.
- Attitudes for, and barriers to, e-scooter adoption.
- Elucidating the values of e-scooter riders, including the demographics and cultures of user ship, their sense of community and values.
The study is located within the Northumbria University Urban Futures IDRT, and specifically within the mobility and transport thematic area. The work clearly also has resonance with wider studies of health & wellbeing and sustainability, and as such the successful candidate will be able to work across all parts of the IDRT.
The study will be supervised by Dr Sharon Wilson, an Associate Professor in the Newcastle Business School at Northumbria University. Her research interests include mobilities, infrastructure, and urban regeneration.
The project will also draw on supervision from Professor Richard Laing from the Department of Architecture and Built Environment. He has experience in undertaking research concerning mobilities, user engagement, urban collaboration and public participation in urban design and planning
If interested: Mobility Transitions: e-scooter Community Identities, Environmental Citizenship and Quality of LIfe Factors (IDRT25/BL/UF/WILSON)