In 2011 the National HE STEM Programme commenced a series of events aimed at supporting those wishing to begin pedagogic research within the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics disciplines. These events built upon an underpinning philosophy of the Programme which was to enable those working on its activities to provide an evidence informed assessment of their impact through evaluation so that knowledge and learning from educational enhancement and innovation could be captured and shared.
Through the STEM Education Centre national work focused upon helping colleagues begin their pedagogic research journey continue as a priority for activity. The videos below were produced by presenters with experience and expertise in undertaking pedagogic research in higher education who presented at a two-day workshop held in July 2012 aimed at supporting those wishing to engage in pedagogic research within the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics in UK higher education.
Videos
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Duncan Lawson
Discussing 'what is pedagogic research?'
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George Brown
Discussing the differences between qualitative and quantitative research.
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Lou Comerford Boyes
Discussing ethics and quality control and validity.
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Ross Galloway
Discussing developing and writing research questions and diagnostic testing.
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Michael Grove
Discussing funding opportunities for pedagogic research.
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Joe Kyle
Discussing developing an academic identity.
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Tina Overton
Discussing writing for publication.
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Michael Grove and Joe Kyle
Discussing dissemination and other outcomes emerging from the workshop.
Most recently a guide, providing an accessible introduction to beginning pedagogic research, has been developed by the STEM Education Centre. It is edited by Michael Grove (Birmingham) and Tina Overton (University of Hull and President of the Royal Society of Chemistry Education Division), and contains contributions from those with experience and expertise in undertaking pedagogic research within higher education.
Although the guide is entitled ‘Getting Started in Pedagogic Research within the STEM Disciplines’, it is suitable for anyone from any discipline within higher education looking to begin pedagogic research. It addresses key topics including writing a research question, using qualitative and quantitative methodologies, quality control, ethical considerations, securing funding, dissemination and writing for publication.