The module examines current developments and issues in education, drawn from topical concerns and the research interests of staff. It focuses on the key role of different kinds of research activity to develop and evaluate educational initiatives and to subject contemporary educational practice to critical scrutiny. As well as listening to specialists talking about their own research, students have the opportunity in small groups to access and use a wide variety of source materials, to analyse reports and articles and to develop their personal views on significant issues where opinion is divided. The module is designed to develop the students¿ ability to critically evaluate key pieces of educational research and communicate this critical thinking via a 3000 word assignment.