This is an open call for expressions of interest for our newly formed Research, Evidence and Evaluation working group.
The group will support the Making Sense of Media (MSOM) programme to meet its strategic priorities across research, evidence and evaluation, as set out in our recently published three-year strategy A Positive Vision for Media Literacy. Its purpose will be:
- To build a better understanding and measurement of media literacy, both in relevant sectors and in raising awareness among the wider general public in the UK.
- To provide expert insight into best practice and developments in the field of evaluation.
- To deepen understanding of ‘what works’ for the delivery of media literacy interventions in relevant sectors.
- To support and inform Ofcom’s media literacy and wider online safety research and evaluation activity.
It replaces our existing research working group and evaluation working group.
Membership will be for the period of the strategy (ending September 2027).
What we are looking for
We are seeking a maximum of 15 members and are keen for representation from research and evaluation experts, primarily from the media literacy sector but also from adjacent sectors, in the following areas:
- Mis and disinformation
- Evaluation and measurement of media literacy
- Online experiences of different groups, including women and girls
- Online privacy and data sharing
- Wellbeing (and media literacy)
- Gaming (and media literacy)
- Digital inclusion
- News literacy and broadcast media
- Behavioural insights
- Platform design
This list should not be considered exclusive, and members may have expertise that spans one or several areas, or adjacent areas to those listed.
What membership of the working group entails
The group will meet four times per year in hybrid meetings, with further ad-hoc meetings involving a subset of working group members as required. In addition, round table discussions may be convened on an informal basis outside of the group.
Group members will be able to propose agenda items to Ofcom for inclusion. Individual group members may carry out activities directly on behalf of the group by agreement with the group and Ofcom. The group may invite guests in consultation with Ofcom to give expert testimony at meetings.
This is not a remunerated position.
How to express your interest
Interested parties should use this form to express their interest.
The deadline is 19 January and we may hold exploratory meetings with shortlisted candidates. We will communicate offers of membership by 13 February.