Research+in+Partner+Schools

Research in Partner Schools

Following initial research into the future of learning, teaching and schools in Scotland, Learning School 12 began their world-wide journey to partner schools across the globe.

On arrival in a new school the group set about locating innovative and interesting things (such as teaching and learning practice, areas and programs) to investigate. The initial research was used to guide further research: for example, the initial research suggests that students and teachers in Scotland don’t like how the exam system relies heavily on memory, so Learning School looked for examples of examination which are not just regurgitation.

The direction that Learning School's work took in each of the partner schools followed informal talks with staff, particularly the Head teacher, and students. The group would discuss and decide what was most interesting to look into. Further research could then involve interview, focus group, observation and active involvement (for example, the creation and execution of Rich Tasks).

The initial research also aided the development of a Rich Task Strategy – a flexible framework used to create new Rich Tasks. This contained points to bear in mind when designing and carrying out Rich Tasks. During the year the group had more and more experience to build on, and feedback from students and teachers (such as Rich Task evaluations) were a valuable tool for continual development.

Unfortunately, due to time constraints, it is likely that many things that could have been included have been missed but the group tried to cover as many areas of the initial research as possible. When it seemed that a particular topic had been addressed thoroughly in proceeding schools, it would be rejected in favour of topics that had been less well covered.

At the end of the research phase, Learning School 12 has amassed a great deal of thoughts, ideas and opinions about the future of learning, teaching and schools as well as having observed and had involvement in examples of innovative practice. The aim of the group was never to contrast or compare schools, nor to create a comprehensive view of all the things happening in any one school. Rather, the aim was to present a collaboration of innovative and interesting examples that together may give us insight into the future of education.