LGBTQIA+ engagement with ‘hybrid spaces’ in the Hunter: perspectives on consent, safety and expression

Wednesday, 3 May 2023

LGBTQIA+ flag flying at a public event

Invitation to participate in research

As part of an ongoing program of research into LGBTQIA+ experiences in the Hunter, researchers at the University of Newcastle (Dr Justin Ellis, Dr David Betts, Professor Jane Goodman-Delahunty and Associate Professor Karen Blackmore) are looking for members of the LGBTQIA+ community aged 18 and over who speak English to share their experiences of engagement with ‘hybrid spaces’ – such as the use of devices like mobile phones, tablets or gaming in public space.

The purpose of this research is to explore how hybrid spaces can be safely used by diverse groups to create a sense of inclusion and identity expression. A hybrid space can be defined as the use of mobile technologies as interfaces between the physical and virtual worlds (De Souza e Silva 2006). The project aims to explore the engagement of the LGBTQIA+ community with hybrid spaces in Newcastle to understand the associated risks and benefits, and how these spaces can be modified to support safety, expression, and inclusivity.

What would you be asked to do?

If you agree to participate, you will be asked to answer questions about your experiences of engaging with hybrid spaces in Newcastle in an audio-recorded, in-depth interview. Interviews can take place face-to-face, over the phone, or on Skype/Zoom. Participants will receive a $20 voucher for sharing their perspectives.

Contact

If would like to participate in the research or would like further information about the research please contact Dr Justin Ellis at justin.ellis@newcastle.edu.au or Dr David Betts at david.betts@newcastle.edu.au.


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