K–12 Educators' Use of Research and Other Sources of Evidence

• In Event: Educators as Users of Research

Abstract

This study analyzes educators’ requests for grant funding to purchase desired educational resources or services. Specifically, we examined to what extent, and how, educators utilized research as well as other forms of evidence to support their decision-making. References to research were sparse, though conceptual use may be lurking beneath the many unsourced, authoritative statements that were made; This possibility is to be explored via follow-up interviews. Applicant educators also showed concern for student engagement/motivation and fitness to their contexts. This line of inquiry contributes to understandings both regarding (a) educators’ use of research and other knowledge sources to support their professional decision-making; and (b) the nature of evidence use, more broadly, in education.

Authors

• Joel R Malin, Miami University - Oxford

• Andrew Saultz, Miami University - Oxford

• Chris Brown, University of Portsmouth