Research and Practice in Education

The Search for Common Ground

By (author) Stephen H. Davis

Publication date:

25 July 2008

Length of book:

152 pages

Publisher

R&L Education

Dimensions:

223x146mm
6x9"

ISBN-13: 9781578868407

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

Stephen Davis has written a readable, engaging book about the fragile intersection between research and practice. He brings this subject to life by drawing on his own rich, personal experiences as a teacher, school administrator, and university faculty member. Teachers and administrators will discover a sympathetic, realistic portrayal of their work while acquiring a somewhat critical view of academia as Stephen experienced it.