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Research, Innovation and Evidence

This domain is clear about the importance of using research ideas in professional development processes. Although recommended practices often need to be adapted for context, we believe that, by acting on the best evidence, leaders are more likely to make better decisions.

In schools which do this well, professional development is informed by evidence-based strategies and leaders encourage staff to share and debate the theory underpinning these. Teachers should be able to identify the evidence behind any CPD programme they are a part of and have access to a range of research to inform their practice. All school staff should also be aware of the importance of being selective, critical consumers of new ideas or interventions.

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What does the research say?

The 2017 DfE report on evidence-informed teaching found that schools strongly informed by research were highly effective. In these schools, senior leaders often sought out relevant evidence and acted as facilitators for the wider staff body to engage with and learn from this. The report also found that most teachers valued research evidence, although many did not feel confident engaging with it directly.

Professor Daniel Muijs wrote an article in 2019 on why research is vital for the evidence-based profession of teaching. In this, he identified how basing practice on evidence gave teachers the best chance of improving outcomes for their students and identified ways schools could overcome the challenges which often stand in the way of this.

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Learn how to Use Research in Professional Development

Our interactive e-learning module will support you to:

  • Reflect on the importance of embedding quality research in CPD to develop teaching practice
  • Recognise how to share research evidence with staff in accessible, actionable and relevant ways
  • Identify actionable next steps for using research effectively in professional development in your setting

 
Learn through videos and case studies from real school leaders, reflect on your practice, and read breakdowns of the research behind how research can be used and shared in schools effectively.

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