Research and Practice in Education

The Search for Common Ground

By (author) Stephen H. Davis

Not available to order

Publication date:

25 July 2008

Length of book:

152 pages

Publisher

R&L Education

ISBN-13: 9781578868858

Over the years, bridging the gap between research and practice in education has proven to be a stubborn and persistent problem. This book examines the issue from several perspectives. First, the characteristics of educational research are examined with particular attention given to the contrasting perspectives and professional orientations of researchers and practitioners. Second, the book provides a critical analysis of the current focus on 'scientifically-based' research as defined by No Child Left Behind and of the dubious relevance and uneven quality of research produced by schools of education. Third, several suggestions and resources are provided that can help practitioners improve their 'research literacy' and for researchers interested in advancing the practical relevance of their work.

Chapter 1 Introduction: How Wide is the Divide?
Chapter 2 Research? What Research?
Chapter 3 From Research to Practice: What's the Big Deal?
Chapter 4 Odd Science: No Child Left Behind and the Scientific Method
Chapter 5 The Research to Policy to Practice Conundrum
Chapter 6 Alien Worlds: Researchers are From Mars, Practitioners From Venus
Chapter 7 The Search for Common Ground: Can the Gap be Bridged?
Chapter 8 Appendix:Resources for Developing Research Literacy

In a style that will appeal to both practitioners and scholars, Stephen Davis?s book provides a forthright and sometimes controversial critique of the world of scholarly research and its impact on k-12 practice. Although some readers may disagree with hisvivid portrayals of scholars and practitioners, most everyone will find the book provocative, informative, and enjoyable. This book is a must read for anyone interested in learning more about the fractured relationship between educational research and school reform.