School-based Research

Book excerpt: 'This book is an excellent resource for researchers, tutors and supervisors. This is the best 'research methods' textbook I am aware of' -Sue Walters, Institute of Education Focused on the needs of the new classroom researcher, and those studying at Masters-level on Education degree courses, School-based Research is a thorough and thoughtful guide to the research process. This second edition has been updated to provide further coverage on the best ways to approach, construct and carry out educational research within the classroom. It contextualises methodological issues alongside key ideas which teachers are likely to be concerned with, such as ability grouping, pupil voice, pupil behaviour, teaching approaches and pupil motivation. New to this edition: -A new chapter exploring how small-scale research can be undertaken with younger pupils in order to inform, understand and develop better classroom practices -Coverage of action research is now split across two chapters exploring a range of approaches, including guidance on how to apply mixed methods approaches to schools-based action research -Greater coverage of ethics, exploring key issues that need to be taken into consideration for school-based research projects Essential reading for students on Education degree programmes including a research methods component, PGCE, MEd and professional development courses. Elaine Wilson is Senior Lecturer in Science Education at the University of Cambridge.