Pedagogic Research

Research and evaluation have a complementary relationship where research both informs and is a consequence of the work that we undertake while simultaneously evaluation is informed by and generates ideas for research. 		 
 

Pedagogoic Research

When we talk about relating what the engCETL does to pedagogic research we mean grounding what we do in relevant teaching and learning literature. It is necessary, as a Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, that we demonstrate awareness of and evidence for good practice that enhances the student learning experience. Any activities we undertake need to have a teaching and learning rationale, something we will discuss with and develop in collaboration with the person who proposes a piece of work.

The Engineering RAE (Research Assessment Exercise) document says that pedagogic research in HE will be assessed where it meets the definition of research for the RAE. It is research which enhances theoretical and/or conceptual understanding of:

Reports of studies providing descriptive and anecdotal accounts of teaching developments and evaluations do not constitute pedagogic research.

Pedagogic research is firmly situated in its relevant literature, and high quality pedagogic research makes a substantial contribution to that literature.

p.14 rae 2008 Panel Criteria and working methods Panel G

Doing pedagogic research means using various research methods to understand and enhance your teaching and your students' learning. It means being aware of 'the teaching and learning literature', that is, showing that you can relate what you do to what is understood by good practice; it is not necessary to agree with that literature, you could of course critically comment with reference to your own experience.

The research methods used can be qualitative (e.g. interviews, focus groups) or quantitative (e.g. questionnaires) or a mixture of qualitative and quantitative. You may decide to draw from different methodologies (e.g. ethnography, case study, grounded theory, phenomenography, action research, activity theory) in designing your research and analysing your data.

Pedagogy Websites

Angles on learning: An introduction to theories of learning for college, adult and professional education
http://www.learningandteaching.info/learning/index.htm

Greg Kearsley's tip database
http://tip.psychology.org/

Project-based learning in Engineering
http://www.pble.ac.uk/

Problem-based learning web site at Samford University, USA
http://www.samford.edu/pbl/index.html