Are you a veteran of Afghanistan or Iraq?
You are invited to take part in a study conducted by Brenda Laskey, a PhD student researcher from The University of Melbourne’s School of Languages and Linguistics. In this research project, we want to collect real stories about military service overseas. We aim to find out more about the way in which veterans use language to describe themselves and their experiences. This may help researchers to understand some of the ways in which Australians respond to conflict. This knowledge could be useful to linguists, military educators and to those who provide support to veterans.
Who can take part?
Although we are studying men’s language in particular, we need to include both male and female veterans. If you are an Australian ex-military veteran who served in 2008 or at any time after that, you can participate. You need to have reasonably good hearing and be able to participate competently in a conversation in English.
Which veterans can’t take part?
As long as you fit the requirements listed above, you will be included.
Talking about some of the more difficult events that occur in a conflict zone is likely to be emotionally upsetting for anyone who has experienced them. This is normal. But if you are someone who becomes overwhelmed by distressing feelings when talking about your military experiences, then you should consider not participating in this study.
What do you have to do?
1. You will be asked to speak about your experiences first to a researcher who will make an audio and video recording of the conversation to study later. All recording sessions will take place at the university at a time that suits you. If you live outside Melbourne or can’t travel to the university, let Brenda know and she can talk to you by phone. Participants will receive $30 after the recording session, to help with travel expenses/parking costs. Time commitment: 45 mins to an hour.
2. If you wish, you can then take part in a small group (2-4 people) of veterans to chat about your experiences. An audio recording will be made of your conversation, and possibly a video recording (-only if you feel comfortable about this). A further $30 will be given for travel expenses after the recording session if you participate in this part of the study. Time commitment: 45 mins to an hour.
Find out more
To find out more about the research and how to take part, call or email:
Name of researcher: Brenda Laskey. Mobile: 0407414884.
Email: [email protected]
This research project is being conducted by The School of Language and Linguistics, University of Melbourne. It has received the approval of the Human Research Ethics Committee of The University of Melbourne.
Ethics ID number: 1544216. To contact the University of Melbourne Human Research Ethics Committee regarding any ethical concerns, telephone 83442073
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