Dr Laura J Wilde
PhD, MSc, BSc (Hons), AFHEA, CPsychol
Research Fellow | Qualitative Researcher | PhD Coach
I am a Research Fellow in the Centre for Healthcare and Communities at Coventry University with a background in psychology and health. My research focuses on chronic health conditions, self-management, behavior change, and the innovative use of technology, such as apps and wearables, to enhance health outcomes.
Research Expertise
My academic journey has been rooted in understanding experiences in managing chronic health conditions. I am a dedicated qualitative researcher with a focus on health and technology. I have contributed to a variety of health-related research projects as a Research Assistant/Associate at esteemed institutions, including the University of Leicester, the University of Southampton, and Coventry University.
My work involves applying advanced qualitative methodologies to drive impactful research and health interventions. I have a broad skill set in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies (but I much prefer qualitative!).
Qualitative research methodologies
- Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) - see the blog post on my experiences of doing IPA.
- Thematic analysis
- Creative research methods, including arts-based methods, co-creation and digital methodologies.
Digital health and interventions
- Chronic health conditions and self-management including developing interventions for cancer survivors, asthma patients, and those managing hypertension.
- Behavior change strategies using the Person-Based Approach ensuring interventions are tailored to patient needs.
- The role of digital health technologies (apps, wearables) in healthcare and making the most of resources we have.
My current research projects
The Co-Wise COPD study
In my postdoctoral research, I am continuing my exploration of COPD and technology through the Co-Wise COPD study. This project aims to co-create information for people with COPD and healthcare practitioners, using creative research methods to ensure the tools developed are both useful and user-centered.
SUSTAIN-ING
This project, led by Professor Liz Lees-Deutsch, seeks to understand the impact of Professional Nurse Advocates (PNAs) who undertake quality improvement work on patient outcomes and experiences. By evaluating the role of PNAs, we aim to identify best practices that enhance patient care.
Canvas of Change
A mixed-methods evaluation of Arty-Folks’ Canvas of Change project, which supports young people transitioning into adulthood. This research will independently assess the therapeutic, social, and educational value of the program, focusing on the mental health needs of young people (16+) in Coventry and Warwickshire. The findings will empower Arty-Folks to tailor their support, enhancing recovery journeys and career prospects for participants.
Generational Perspectives on LGBTQ+ Communities
A scoping review exploring generational differences in the perceived importance of LGBTQ+ communities in fostering a sense of belonging and connection. This research aims to deepen our understanding of how different age groups engage with and value LGBTQ+ communities, informing more inclusive community-building efforts.
My PhD research
My PhD thesis was titled: Experiences of people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) using activity monitors and healthcare practitioners' perspectives of their application within healthcare involved several key phases:
- Qualitative Systematic Review: I conducted a review focused on the barriers and facilitators to using apps and wearables for monitoring physical activity and sedentary behavior, which laid the foundation for my doctoral research.
- Scoping Review: A deep dive into the specific experiences of people with COPD using activity monitors, which was published in COPD: Journal for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.
- Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA): This phase explored the in-depth experiences of individuals with COPD using digital health tools, published in Disability and Rehabilitation.
- Healthcare Practitioners' Perspectives: The final part of my thesis explored the views of healthcare professionals on supporting COPD patients using activity monitors, with findings published in Respiratory Medicine.
Education
2017 - 2023
PhD in Technology Enabled Health Research, Coventry University
Experiences of people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) using activity monitors and healthcare practitioners' perspectives of their application within healthcare.
Supervised by Dr Cain Clark, Prof. Petra Wark, Prof. Gill Ward, Dr Louise Sewell and Dr Carol Percy
2014 - 2015
MSc Health Psychology, University of Southampton
Dissertation title: Combined cognitive biases: Patterns of attention, interpretation and memory bias in individuals with chronic headache.
Supervised by Dr Daniel Schoth
2011-2014
BSc (Hons.) Psychology, University of Winchester
Dissertation title: Definitions of having ‘had sex’ and ‘virginity loss’ and the Big Five personality traits: Questionnaire and focus group.
Mixed-methods study investigating how participants defined having ‘had sex’ and ‘virginity loss’ involving an online survey (quantitative) and focus groups (qualitative).
Supervised by Dr David Giles
Certificates and Awards
- Associate Fellow to the Higher Education Academy (AFHEA)
- Certified in Good Clinical Practice (GCP)
- Launch Entrepreneurship Development Programme, Coventry University Social Enterprise (CUSE) (June 2023)
- GOLD leadership award, Coventry University Students Union (August 2022)
- Best Oral Presentation Award, Midlands Health Psychology Network Annual Conference (June 2021)
- Postgraduate Research Rep of the Year, Coventry University Student Union (December 2018)
- HLS Faculty Associate Dean's Award, Coventry University Student Union (December 2018)
- Rep of the Month, Coventry University Student Union (June 2018)
- Research Forum of the Year, Coventry University Student Union (May 2018)
Coaching Services for PhD Students and Researchers
In addition to my research, I am passionate about mentoring the next generation of researchers. I offer personalised coaching services for PhD students and early-career researchers who seek to excel in their academic journeys. My coaching is designed to provide tailored support in:
- Thesis structure and writing: Guidance on organizing and articulating your research effectively.
- Research methodology: Specialised support in qualitative methods, particularly in health psychology and technology-enabled health research.
- Time management and productivity: Strategies to stay focused and manage your workload efficiently.
- Career development: Advice on navigating the academic landscape, building professional networks, and planning your career trajectory.
Whether you're just starting your PhD, facing challenges along the way, or preparing to transition to the next stage of your career, I’m here to help you succeed.
I am passionate about learning, teaching, and collaborating with others who share my interest in health, psychology, and technology. Feel free to reach out if you’re interested in working together, need guidance, or simply want to chat about our shared interests.
The views expressed on this website are that of Laura Wilde not those of any other individual or organisation.
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