Social research is a way of gathering crucial data about what people do, why they do it, and what might motivate them to do something different. This type of data on behaviours, practices, knowledge, attitudes and values helps us to develop policy or design programs designed to drive change. At ISF, we believe that effective social research on issues like climate change, energy use and smart cities is key to achieving a more sustainable future.
Why social research at ISF?
Sustainability is largely a social and political challenge, and ISF’s social research puts people at the heart of sustainability projects and programs. As one of Australia’s leading sustainability research centres, we have extensive experience using the latest social research methods, theories and frameworks, as well as the capacity to bring a deep analysis that’s grounded in social science to the work we do.
As a university-based research centre, we’re home to a diversity of sustainability expertise, both within ISF itself and across the broader UTS community. When you partner with us, you’ll also gain access to our robust graduate research program comprised of more than 50 master’s and doctoral research candidates. Many of these students are working at the leading edge of social research and the social sciences and can deliver valuable expertise to your project.
What we offer
We deliver high-quality social research expertise in response to broad range of sustainability questions. We can work with you at all stages of the research pipeline, including:
- scoping your research question
- designing your research approach
- implementing your research program
- evaluating and reporting on your program outcomes.
We are experts in the following social research methodologies:
- Surveys
- Interviews
- Focus groups
- Observational research
- Application of social science theories and frameworks
- Discourse analysis.
Work with us
Social research can provide value to organisations of all sizes and within all sectors. We work with local, state and federal governments and private sector and non-government organisations to deliver social research solutions to a range of sustainability challenges.
Whatever change you wish to see in the world, working with us means creating something that will last.
Projects
- Social practice evaluation of the Smarter Choice Program
- Co-housing for seniors and Collaborative Housing Guide: building a great life together
- Social Access Solar Gardens
- Latrobe Valley Authority community energy training
Let's collaborate
Whether you have a problem that needs support or an idea for change, our innovative and solutions-focused approach can help you achieve your goals.
Contact Chris Riedy on Christopher.Riedy@uts.edu.au or + 61 2 9514 4962 for more information.
