Social Science
A current collaborative research project explores the “gold and silver threads” of connections that support people living with mate wareware (dementia) and their whānau and families. Using qualitative interviews and a critical realism framework, the research examines lived experiences and the social structures that shape them, with a strong emphasis on culturally responsive and Tiriti-informed approaches.
Research integrated in Teaching & Learning
This research supports teaching by contributing to the development of an innovative social work practice framework that can be integrated into the Bachelor of Social Work.
Ākonga (students) benefit from exposure to real research, current practice challenges, and culturally grounded approaches. The work also connects to the profession’s knowledge through publications, conference presentations, and collaboration with practitioners, helping to strengthen social work practice across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Research staff in Social Science
Sarah Fraser
Sarah Fraser’s research focuses on social work practice and theory, social work education, social pedagogy, and the history of social work in Aotearoa New Zealand. She has published widely and presented at national and international conferences, with her PhD examining the role of social pedagogy in professional practice. In the dementia research project, she has led the research design and ethics process and is involved in analysis and publication.
Sarah uses this research to inform teaching by bringing current theory and practice developments into the classroom. Her work supports ākonga (students) understanding of the foundations of social work and engage with research-informed approaches. It also contributes to the profession’s knowledge base through publications and engagements that strengthen social work practice.
Lisa Gant
Lisa Gant’s research includes work on student wellbeing during fieldwork placements and the role of animals in social work education and practice. More recently, she has contributed to the collaborative dementia research project, including developing interview questions, completing the literature review, data analysis and writing for publication.
Lisa brings this research into teaching by using current studies and real examples to enrich learning. Ākonga benefit from understanding applied research processes and contemporary practice issues. Her work also contributes to the profession by supporting evidence-based social work approaches and practice skills.
Emz Schwass
Emz Schwass’s research is part of the collaborative dementia project, focusing on the experiences of social workers, whānau, and the implications for education. Her work places a strong emphasis on mātauranga Māori, relational approaches, and lived experience, ensuring a Māori lens is embedded throughout the research.
Emz uses this research to inform teaching by contributing to culturally responsive and practice-focused curriculum content. Students benefit from learning approaches grounded in real experiences and Māori perspectives. Her work also supports the profession by helping develop more meaningful and responsive social work practices in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Annie Fay
Annie Fay is part of the collaborative dementia research project exploring supports for people living with dementia and their families. Her broader research interest is in social accountability in medicine, focusing on how health systems respond to community needs and support vulnerable populations.
Annie uses this research to support teaching by contributing to the development of a new practice framework for social work education. This helps ensure ākonga are prepared for real-world challenges and responsive care. Her work also connects through planned publications and contributions to professional practice across Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia.
Mary James
Mary James’ research focuses on palliative care social work, particularly how working in interprofessional teams influences professional identity. Her doctoral research explores organisational factors and the role of social workers in this field, which is underrepresented in Aotearoa New Zealand research.
Mary integrates this research into teaching by using it in social science and social work courses, including topics such as palliative care and research methods. Ākonga gain insight into real practice contexts and research processes. Her work also contributes to the profession through presentations and engagement with professional groups, supporting understanding of palliative care practice.
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Lynn Bruning Social Sciences Tutor
Lynn Bruning’s research includes work on professional identity in social work, particularly relating to the ways in which supervision supports newly qualified practitioners. She has published her research and presented it through professional organisations and conferences. She is also part of the dementia research project, conducting interviews and contributing to data collection and analysis.
Lynn uses her research to support teaching by sharing real-world insights into professional practice and identity. This helps students understand the experiences of social workers and prepares them for the realities of the field. Her engagement with social service organisations also strengthens connections between teaching and professional practice.
Read more about: Lynn Bruning | Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT)
