Advancing the professional development of science teachers through engagement with research

 In this talk I will argue that teachers’ professional learning can be advanced by engagement with research and research outcomes in different ways. Based on evidence from my collaboration with teachers through funded research projects, higher degree work and professional development I will discuss how different forms of engagement, as suited to individuals and circumstances, can enable teachers to be critically reflective of practice and their own learning. I will draw on examples from research and development projects on teaching argumentation to demonstrate the value of being involved or using outcomes from these projects. I will also use a few examples from reflective accounts written by my masters and doctoral students to show how their research for these degrees has advanced their professional knowledge. A key feature of my current work is on the development of action research with teachers in schools, who are investigating aspects of their own practice. I believe these kinds of inquiry can fruitfully enhance the engagement of teachers with research in the current climate, as evidenced by recent activity within the ASE Research Specialist Group.

Biography

Shirley Simon is Professor of Science Education at the UCL Institute of Education, University College London. She taught in inner-city London schools before becoming a full-time researcher and lecturer in science education at King’s College London.  She took a position at the Institute of Education in 2001 and has since been Head of Department. Her research has focused on the implementation of new assessment practices, scientific inquiry, cognitive acceleration, teacher learning and professional development. Her current research focuses on argumentation in science, attitudes to science and STEM careers. She teaches on masters programs and supervises doctoral students working in many aspects of STEM education. She is also a Visiting Professor and Honorary Doctor at Umeå University in Sweden where she advises on research projects and supervises doctoral study.