Vivian (Viv) Hocking is an early-career researcher in the field of Computing. Vivian is engaged as a doctoral research student with the School of Engineering, Computing & Mathematics, investigating technological aspects of violence against women and girls in situations of domestic abuse. In particular, Viv's research focuses on victim-survivor-centric approaches to mitigating digital coercive control in intimate partner relationships.
Alongside his research, Viv also works as a Lecturer in Computer Science within the School. Viv's teaching interest is driven by a passion for student-staff partnership, having previously been named the
University of Plymouth Students' Union School Representative of the Year in 2021 and later serving two terms as a non-executive director on the board of trustees for the charity.
Viv is interested in the value of student-led third spaces and their impact on educational experience; previously helped build our institution's
Student Digital Champion scheme, supporting the coordination of digital skills peer-support within the University community. The success of the scheme has been shared at educational conferences nationally and replicated at other institutions within the UK. Viv's contributions to student experience were internationally recognised through receipt of the Staff & Educational Development Association (SEDA)
Student Partnership Impact Award in 2025.
Viv is also certified with
MHFA England as a Mental Health First Aider.