Education

The University has a lively and thriving culture of educational research and scholarship which informs our publications for both academic and practitioner communities. We have established a reputation for the delivery of world class and international educational research. In RAE 2008 a substantial proportion of our research was deemed to be of international importance in terms of its originality, significance and rigour, with much of it representing quality that is both excellent and world leading. We have ambitious targets for the forthcoming REF with a programme of sabbaticals and study leave to support potential entrants. In addition we have as other support mechanisms such as writing retreats, mentorship’s etc., to assist developing researchers.

Educational Research is integral to our excellent reputation for developing professionals for all sectors of education and for related professions. Research activities are organised both within our Centre for Research in Post-Compulsory Education as well as around research clusters led by our leading and developing researchers. Currently there are six clusters: Early Years, Childhood, Youth and Community; Action Research; Policy; Social Cohesion; Teacher professionalism and Technology Enhanced Learning.  The clusters are at different levels of maturity. Educational researchers have strong links with the Centre for Applied Childhood Studies, and the Academy for the British and Irish Studies.  In addition pedagogical research [Computing and Engineering Pedagogical Research Group] aimed at enhancing teaching and learning [Teaching and Learning Institute] experience and developing practitioners is conducted throughout the university.