Evidence of depth and subtlety in the representations of science in primary teachers’ practice
This paper shows how primary teachers’ views about the nature of science relate to their classroom practice. The author argues that such views form part of the hidden curriculum, which can frame the way that children view science. He identifies six factors that describe the variance in teachers’ responses to views about the nature of science. Five teacher case studies show the richness of primary teachers’ representations and of their thinking in the classroom, and the interactions of thes
Parental involvement in the development of children's reading skill: a five-year longitudinal study
This is a research digest from the DfES Research Informed Practice Site (TRIPS). The research took place in Canada and involved 168 children and their parents. It followed the children’s progress in reading from the age of four until age nine years and examined both their home literacy experiences and their performance in reading as measured by standard school tests.
Steiner Schools in England
This comprehensive report of a DfES commissioned research project into Steiner schools in England provides a systematic review of literature on Steiner education, case studies of good practice observed in Steiner schools and recommendations for ways in which Steiner schools and mainstream education could learn from each other.
Group Seating in Primary Schools: an indefensible strategy?
This paper is concerned with classroom organisation in primary education in the UK, with a particular focus on the widespread use of group seating. It highlights the fact that the rationale underpinning this practice is inadequately reflected in primary teachers’ approach to classroom organisation and questions the appropriateness of group seating as a standard approach.
Secondary Science Technicians - Practical and Career Issues
This is a twenty-seven minute Teachers TV clip focusing on the professional development of two science technicians from a school in York. The programme is split into three sections, the first focusing on the role of the science technician, the second relates to training out of school and the final section returns to the school to see the impact of this training on practice. The senior technician from the National Science Centre, Simon Quinnell, provides tailored support for these vitally importa
The use of ICT in Physical Education in the Exeter Initial Teacher Training Partnership (R&DA 2: 13)
This project investigated the way ICT is used In Physical Education (PE) and the opportunities for enhancing its use. Trainees and tutors from one provider took part in the research. The researchers found that practice and the provision of resources were ad-hoc but that the potential for the use of a rich variety of ICT in PE was not realised. In particular ICT applications in PE such as digital video cameras and video analysis software, heart rate monitors were quite distinct from the contrib
How can video web-cam technologies be used to promote the development of evidence-based practice by
This project explored the potential of webcam recordings to enhance professional development and mentoring of trainees’ classroom practice. The report provides detail on the practicalities of implementing two systems (Ondev and Gemin-i Observation Tool GOTv2) and findings are reported in four areas: Technical, Legal, Ethical and Educational.
When classroom web-cam recordings were made trainees found these valuable as a tool for reviewing their practice. Recordings helped trainees and mentors
Building ICT Capability into the Science Initial Teacher Training Partnership at Birmingham and Beyo
This project attempted to develop pedagogy appropriate to computer modelling and explored computer based modelling in science teaching with beginning teachers. Science teachers and trainees in partnership with one training provider over three years used the modelling application VnR in science lessons. There was some evidence of pupil progress but the innovation did not survive well in schools. The possible reasons why the innovation was not incorporated into continuing practice are discussed
Science Education in School Issues, Evidence and Proposals
This report advocates the need for significant change in secondary science education to provide ‘science education for citizenship’ rather than an elitist education for a few. The belief is that significant change in practice could bring about an increase in the scientific literacy of the whole population whilst simultaneously producing enough highly qualified scientists and technicians to meet the future needs of the UK in a global economy. The report advocates change so that it becomes ‘
Literacy and Enjoyment 1
This video from Teachers TV follows the practice of a Year 2 teacher who has been involved with the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education’s 'Power of Reading' project. It includes interviews with the class teacher and Olivia O’Sullivan from the CLPE, in which each discusses the approach and how it supports children’s reading and their writing. Throughout the video there are excerpts from the teacher’s classroom in which she can be seen working with her class at different stages of the
Classroom Practice: New Approaches Supported by ICT
This resource is a 6-page NFER PRE article of two case studies, one primary phase and one secondary phase, of the use of ICT that changes the way in which children learn. It outlines the use of email supporting “writing for a purpose” and the use of online teaching resources enabling pupils to gain level 2 national qualifications. It provides a good example of how a case study should paint a rich picture of the context and describe outcomes that have implications for others. The report shows
The Role of the ITT Co-ordinator in Primary and Secondary Schools
This research report examines current practice relating to Initial Teacher Training Co-ordinators (ITT) in the South East in Primary and Secondary Schools.
Play and Learning in Early Education: New Evidence
On Wednesday 12th November an event was held in the Jubilee Room of the House of Commons organised by TACTYC (Training, Advancement and Co-operation in Teaching Young Children) and the Vicky Hurst Trust, and hosted by Annette Brook MP. The purpose was to share new evidence concerning play and early education, which, as the invitation stated, is "an important aspect of children's lives which must feature substantially in the development of policy and practice".
Launch of 'Evidence Matters: Towards informed professionalism in education'
This report, by Andrew Morris, was launched at an event in Reading Town Hall on 12 March 2009. Arguing that the ways in which knowledge about educational practice is produced and put to good use is of utmost importance, it outlines the need for evidence in education, where it comes from and how it is used. It also puts forward a compelling case for an "evidence friendly world" and highlights the changes needed to achieve this. Alongside eep (the educational evidence portal), the TTRB is included
KS1/2 Maths - Making Maths Real
This 15 minute Teachers TV video clip shows the Headteacher and teachers at Weeke Primary School in Winchester, sharing their enthusiastic approach to the teaching of mathematics. The school was identified by Sir Peter Williams, when conducting his review of Primary Schools and Early Years Settings, as one that demonstrates good practice in mathematics learning and teaching. The video clip explores, through a series of short interviews with the Headteacher and class teachers in both Key Stages,
9 Subtracting small numbers
Do you want to improve your ability to subtract one number from another, especially if decimals are involved, without having to rely on a calculator? This unit will help you get to grips with subtraction and give you some practice in doing it.
GTIP: Webquests in Geography
Extracts from a GA 'Theory into Practice' publication, which explores the relationship between ICT and pupil learning in geography. In particular it proposes the use of WebQuests as flexible, constructivist learning activities in the geography curriculum.
4 Subtracting on paper
Do you want to improve your ability to subtract one number from another, especially if decimals are involved, without having to rely on a calculator? This unit will help you get to grips with subtraction and give you some practice in doing it.
Learning outcomes
Do you want to improve your ability to subtract one number from another, especially if decimals are involved, without having to rely on a calculator? This unit will help you get to grips with subtraction and give you some practice in doing it.
The Impact of ITE Partnerships on Teachers' Professional Learning and Development: A Selection of Ca
Following the results of an initial study into the impact of Initial Teacher Education (ITE) on schools, this follow up study focuses in more detail on the contribution of mentoring to the professional learning of teachers and the reciprocal learning and development benefits of working with trainee teachers. Findings from a qualitative interview study with people involved with ITE in a range of different roles are presented as ‘case stories’ of good practice.
