Teacher Engagement with Research

[Admin]

'Teaching is not at present a research-based profession'. (Hargreaves, 1996)

This was written nearly two decades ago by David H. Hargreaves, and the same is true today – doctors base their practice on up-to-date research which they actively seek out in journals, at conferences or online. There is plenty of scientific and qualitative data being produced about contemporary educational issues and yet most teachers don't access research at all, even though the knowledge gained from such research could greatly improve our day-to-day teaching skills and improve our employability.

Why? Not enough time? It's boring? Don't get paid enough to do the research as well? Don't know where to access it? It's all theory and not enough practice? Other?

[Alessandra]

It seems that the world of educational research preserves itself from reality; it remains academic and doesn't really involve teachers, who are the real actors, together with the students.
On the other hand, teachers are over busy with duties: the scarce time and the lack of encouragement in stepping into the education's research play the main role.

[sam]

Teacher education programs focus on theory and research, but once the teachers have their diplomas and start their teaching careers, there is little time for keeping current with the latest research. This is why attending conferences should be mandatory for professional development for educators; this is often the only time they are exposed to new ideas and trends in their field.