Small-Scale Research in Primary Schools: A Reader for Learning and Professional Development

Small-scale Research in Primary Schools provides guidance and inspiration for students and practitioners undertaking practical investigations and workplace enquiry in the primary school. The 30 chapters are carefully selected to illustrate a range of approaches to educational enquiry, and are particularly relevant to the range of practitioners who may carry out school-based research as part of a course of study: teachers, trainee- and newly-qualified teachers, teaching assistants, learning mentors and staff who support children with individual needs.

Research topics addressed in chapters include children’s learning in the core curriculum subjects as well as themes central to teaching and learning. Important concepts and terminology are highlighted throughout. More specifically, areas of research explored include:

• Play
• Special Educational Needs
• Working with parents and families
• English as an Additional Language
• Creativity
• Language development
• Learning environments

Small-scale Research in Primary Schools provides a straightforward, highly accessible introduction to enquiry approaches and research methodologies, and the questions and challenges adults in schools encounter about children’s learning. It shows how small-scale research in primary education can impact on professional thinking and learning. It aims to provide constructive support for students and practitioners in extending their knowledge and understanding through workplace enquiry.

Kimberly Safford is Head of Awards, Primary Teaching and Learning in the Faculty of Education and Language Studies at The Open University, UK.

Mary Stacey is a writer and educational consultant working with teaching assistants and early years practitioners.

Roger Hancock is a Senior Lecturer and Researcher in the Faculty of Education and Language Studies at The Open University, UK.