Consultant (qualitative) for Children and AI research, Digital Engagement and Protection Unit, UNICEF Office of Strategy and Evidence - Innocenti, approximately 115 days over 16 months, Florence, Italy, (Remote) #594743

Organizational Context

UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential, from early childhood through adolescence. At UNICEF, we are committed, passionate, and proud of what we do for as long as we are needed. Promoting the rights of every child is not just a job – it is a calling.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this assignment is to design qualitative research methodology for consultation workshops with children in China on Artificial Intelligence (AI). The consultant will support the local implementing research partner by reviewing findings, conducting quality control of research analysis, and writing a UNICEF Innocenti report with complete analysis, discussion, and recommendations. This project involves a mixed-methods study to capture children’s real-life experiences with AI tools in China. The consultant will focus on the first phase, which includes qualitative consultative workshops with children to understand their interactions and perceptions of relational AI systems. The ultimate goal is to enable targeted recommendations for children's digital engagement and protection.

Responsibilities

The consultant will be responsible for designing the qualitative research methodology for consultation workshops with children in China concerning AI. This includes developing the research framework and tools for these workshops. The consultant will provide support to the local implementing research partner, which involves reviewing their research findings and conducting quality control on the analysis of the data collected. A key responsibility will be to write a comprehensive UNICEF Innocenti report. This report must include a thorough analysis of the findings, a detailed discussion of the implications, and actionable recommendations. The consultant will also contribute to the overall project by ensuring the qualitative phase effectively informs the subsequent quantitative survey. This involves close collaboration with UNICEF China (project lead) and the local partner to ensure alignment and quality throughout the research process, particularly in understanding children's interactions and perceptions of AI systems.

Work Experience

A minimum of 5 years of professional work experience at national or international levels in qualitative research related to technology or children’s issues. This includes experience in developing research methodologies, managing/conducting child consultations, data analysis, and report writing. Experience with qualitative research involving children, writing policy/industry recommendations, and working on children's digital engagement and protection (e.g., AI) are considered assets.

Skills

Qualitative research methodology design, Child consultation management, Data analysis, Report writing, Excellent written and oral communication, Attention to detail, Ability to work independently, Cross-cultural collaboration, Project management, Familiarity with AI and children's digital rights, UNICEF values

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