Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

• Master of Philosophy (research degree). Adoption narratives in a digital age: How are social and digital media changing adoption narratives? (University of Sussex)

• Post Graduate Certificate in Teaching & Learning (University of West London)

• BSL Level 1 Sign Language (Uckfield Community College)

• Post Graduate Diploma in European (Digital) Media (University of Portsmouth)

• Masters Degree in Fine Art (University of Northumbria at Newcastle)

• BA (Hon’s) Visual & Performing Arts (Brighton Polytechnic)

• BTEC Foundation in Art and Design (Birmingham Polytechnic)

Master of Philosophy research degree

In 2016 Julie completed her Master of Philosophy MPhil) research degree at the University of Sussex. 

Title of thesis: Adoption and narrative in the digital age: how are social and digital media changing adoption? 

Abstract

This thesis explores some of the twenty-first-century social networking challenges faced by all those involved in adoption. Written as an account of some fundamental changes taking place, where adoption and social networking have collided, this work examines some of the emerging tensions. Although much of the research is UK-focused, the changes within adoption in relation to social networking are more widely applicable. The inclusion of research material from other countries, including the US, is representative of these changes taking place within the field of adoption.

Through the examination of popular media and adoption as narratives, an indication of social networking’s pervasiveness and the unforeseen changes in the provision of care of looked-after children begin to emerge. In this new and still uncharted digital territory, all aspects of what it means to be adopted continue to evolve in the context of networked media cultures.