Research design consultation
Working through how to genuinely operationalize bioecological or neo-ecological theory in an empirical study. This includes selecting appropriate constructs, aligning methods with theoretical commitments, reviewing drafts of theoretical framing sections, and troubleshooting misapplications before they reach peer review.
Theoretical framing and manuscript review
Reading and responding to manuscripts, grant proposals, and dissertations to ensure the theoretical framework is doing substantive work, not just providing a citation. Includes line-level feedback, suggestions for restructuring, and guidance on connecting theory to findings.
Workshop facilitation for applied groups
Translating bioecological and neo-ecological theory for practitioners, program designers, and applied researchers who want to ground their work in developmental science without losing sight of real-world application. Workshops are tailored to the specific context and audience.
How I work
My consulting work grows directly out of my scholarship. Since my doctoral training I have worked through what it means to apply Bronfenbrenner's bioecological theory correctly, and developed neo-ecological theory as an extension of that framework for the digital age.
The most common problem I see is theory used as window dressing. A paper names the microsystem, draws the nested circles, and then proceeds as if none of it were there. I help researchers move beyond that, making sure the theoretical commitments are present in the research questions, the methods, and the interpretation of findings.
Consultations are conversational. I ask questions, read what you have written, and work with you to bring the theory into genuine contact with the study. I have worked with researchers in the United States, Europe, and internationally, at stages ranging from early design to final revision.
Who I work with
- Graduate students designing dissertations or theses
- Early-career researchers developing their first empirical studies
- Faculty and research teams expanding into bioecological frameworks
- International scholars applying neo-ecological theory in new contexts
- Practitioners and program designers grounding applied work in theory
- Organizations working on technology, family, and child development
Start a conversation
If you are working on a study, dissertation, manuscript, or program that involves bioecological or neo-ecological theory and would like a thought partner, reach out. I am glad to hear about the project and discuss whether and how I can help.
jnavarro2@elon.edu