The idea of doing ‘research’ can make teachers nervous, as research can sound quite technical and best conducted by outside experts. The aim of this guide is to create an accessible and straightforward way for practitioners to undertake research. The guide includes practical examples and useful explanations to support practitioner action research.
Academic Research: Open-access research journal portals – examples
ONS are the UK’s largest independent producer of official statistics and its recognised national statistical institute. they are responsible for collecting and publishing statistics related to the economy, population and society (including education, adult learning and qualifications) at national, regional and local levels. They conduct the census in England and Wales every 10 years.
PISA is a triennial international survey which aims to evaluate education systems worldwide by testing the skills and knowledge of 15-year-old students. The international comparisons are used by some governments to inform their policies.
CERI carries out research that covers learning at all ages, from birth to old age. It goes beyond the formal education system. Specific emphasis is put on accumulating statistical evidence to the value of its research work.
The National Research and Development Centre for Adult Literacy, language and numeracy (NRDC) was established by the UK government in 2002 as part of its Skills for Life strategy that aimed to improve the literacy, numeracy and language skills of adults in England. On this website you will find over 150 publications, including research reports, research reviews and policy analysis.
NRDC closed its doors on 31st December 2015 but research publications are still available on its website.
The National Institute of Economic and Social Research is Britain's longest established independent research institute, founded in 1938. The vision of its founders was to carry out research to improve understanding of the economic and social forces that affect people’s lives, and the ways in which policy can bring about change. The Institute is independent of all party political interests. They receive no core funding from government and are not affiliated to any single university.
nfer is the UK's largest independent provider of research, assessment and information services for education, training and children's services. Their purpose is to provide independent evidence which improves education and training and hence the lives of learners. Its ambition is to be the research organisation of first choice for those who wish to make a positive difference to learners.
Although closed to new material the NCSALL site contains publications whose aim were to improve practices and inform teaching of adults with limited literacy and English language skills.
The International Journal of Educational Research publishes research manuscripts in the field of education.
