College of Social Sciences

The Digital Society and Economy IRT (Interdisciplinary Research) group was formed in 2020 as one of four IRT groups which aimed to focus on developing interdisciplinary research, projects and networking opportunities in the University of Glasgow and with external partners. Over the course of four years (2020-2024), the group aimed to establish the University of Glasgow as a leader in cutting edge research on digital research, as well as a key connecting hub between researchers and industry partners. Our work brought together researchers and stakeholders from a wide range of disciplines and areas of activity, from social sciences, arts and humanities, engineering and computing sciences.

The Digital Society and Economy IRT group developed its activity through several streams: (1) we supported and strengthened an interdisciplinary community of researchers exploring emerging trends in digital learning and living within the University of Glasgow, across Scotland and internationally; (2) we improved the research culture with a series of methods workshops that focused on the latest methods and methodologies used in digital research; (3) we engaged in three pilot projects to inform the developments of Crichton Trust’s initiatives in the Dumfries and Galloway; (4) we engaged with multiple stakeholders from the university and industry sectors to discuss high-profile societal challenges such as climate change, cost of living, energy planning, sustainable designs for living, the future of digital and outdoor learning, the impact of immersive technologies on education. Our work was guided by two fundamental principles: developing research and new knowledge with a view to practical applications and impact and working collaboratively across disciplines and sectors to co-design innovative solutions.  

Informing and guiding public policy has been at the forefront of our work. This was achieved through several research projects and reports. The Digital Society and Economy IRT (Interdisciplinary Research) group supported the development of Early Career Researchers who benefitted from expertise shared within seminars and methods workshops. Two doctoral symposia dedicated and organised by doctoral researchers at the University of Glasgow gave them the opportunity to share research projects, explore new directions and expand their professional networks. We have also established the foundation for a CIVIS Masters level programme which will launch in September 2025.  

1. The IRT had policy impact, making recommendations for the UN Home and Climate Change Policy, it is currently working to inform Scottish Government on Minimum Digital Living Standards, it acted as advisor to Glasgow City Council on its open data developments, informed the developments in neighbourhoods of the future, and it informed the British Film Institute 10-year strategy. In relation to the twin digital and green agenda, the IRT is part of Glasgow City Region as a Whole System Planning Observatory: Using enabling technology such as cyber physical infrastructure and digital twinning, to unlock some of the social-techno-economic and environmental challenges in sustainable transitions for communities. And in relation to enhancing productivity for prosperity, it is working on the Manufacturing and Energy Nexus. It has also been advisor in developing the circular economy using digital tools.  
2. The IRT developed vibrant and extensive external partner network that includes public sector partners from Local Authorities, health, education and social care as well as employment. It also developed relations with third sector and related organisations such as Citizens Advice, SCVO, and Prosper. Relations were also developed with the Digital Sector, such as CENSIS, Codebase and Glasgow Innovation District.