Josie Barnard

Josie Barnard is an Associate Professor in Creative Writing at De Montfort University, within the School of Humanities in the Faculty of Arts, Design and Humanities. She is also the Creative Writing Subject Leader and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA). Her work integrates academic research with creative practice, focusing on digital literacy, multimodal writing, and digital inclusion.

Her research interests include:

• Multimodal Writing
• Digital Literacy and Inclusion
• Creative Writing Pedagogy
• Digital Communications
• Employability and Creativity

Dr. Barnard’s publications reflect a strong interdisciplinary focus, combining creative writing, digital media, and social impact. Her recent works explore digital creativity, online learning, and the societal implications of digital exclusion, often using creative methods to address real-world challenges. She has made significant contributions through her monograph The Multimodal Writer, BBC Radio 4 programming, and editorial leadership of a special issue on multimodal writing.

Her scientific recognition includes:

• Betty Trask Award (1997)
• Senior Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy
• Multiple DMU Research and Teaching Awards (2022, 2024)
• Subject of a REF2021 Impact Case Study

Dr. Barnard actively supervises PhD students and leads research projects funded by Oxford University, HEIF, and QR funding. She collaborates with government bodies such as DCMS and the Nuffield Foundation, advising on digital skills policy. Her work bridges academia, creative practice, and public engagement, demonstrating a strong commitment to using creativity to address digital inequality.