Research team contacts

Principal Researcher:

Associate Professor Bernd Ploderer, School of Computer Science, QUT

Research Student:

Sineenath Khongjit, School of Computer Science, QUT

Dylan Joyce, School of Computer Science, QUT

What is the purpose of this research?

This project investigates how FIFO workers use social technologies like Messenger, WhatsApp, and Skype and how they can best use them to stay connected to their families.

Are you looking for people like me?

We are looking for current and former FIFO workers who use social technologies to stay connected to their families, friends or other important people in their lives, during periods away from home.

What will you ask me to do?

Your participation will involve undertaking an interview via Zoom. The interview is expected to take approximately 45 minutes. Throughout the interview you will be asked a series of questions by the research students and/or the research supervisor. All answers provided will be anonymised for your privacy.

Are there any risks for me in taking part?

Although there are no direct risks noted, there may be some potential for some interviewees to feel discomfort with some questions asked. Specifically, questions relating to your communication with family. If you have any adverse experiences related to these topics, please carefully consider undertaking this project.

Are there any benefits for me in taking part?

While there may not be a direct benefit for you, your feedback will help other FIFO workers to help them strengthen their connection with family members and to stay well.

Will I be compensated for my time?

No compensation is offered for this project.

I am interested - what should I do next?

Please contact either Sineenath Khongjit on sineenath.khongjit@connect.qut.edu.au, or Dylan Joyce on dylan.joyce@connect.qut.edu.au. Upon doing so, a time will be organised for the interview to be conducted via Zoom.

QUT Ethics Number: 8311