MsNorma Barrett

Norma Barrett's research focuses on the transition to parenthood, family wellbeing, and experiences of health and community services. Her work seeks to understand how parents experience support services and how those services can better meet the needs of diverse families.

A major focus of Norma's research has been parenting services and support during early parenthood. Her studies have explored first-time parent groups, fathers' experiences of becoming parents, parenting roles and identities, and factors that influence family wellbeing. Through partnerships with local government, health services, and community organisations, her research has informed service development, professional practice, and policy discussions relating to parenting support.

Norma's work has attracted considerable public and professional interest and has been featured through media outlets including ABC Radio, ABC Life Matters, House of Wellness, Network 10, and the Herald Sun. She also enjoys participating in podcast interviews. Norma is particularly recognised for research exploring contemporary parenting roles, including coining the term "passenger parenting", which has stimulated international discussion about father engagement during the transition to parenthood.

Norma is a confirmed PhD candidate investigating parents' experiences of maternity care and health service quality through the analysis of healthcare complaints. This work extends her broader interest in understanding patient experiences and identifying opportunities to improve health service delivery.

Alongside her health research, Norma has an established program of scholarship in teaching and learning. Her educational research focuses on online learning, student engagement, assessment and feedback, digital capability, and the ethical use of generative artificial intelligence in higher education. She has disseminated this work through university, national, and international teaching and learning conferences. Norma's work is characterised by a strong commitment to evidence-informed research that contributes to professional practice, policy, and service improvement.