Developing Authentic Research Practice Partnerships (RPPs) for Educational Change: perspectives on principles and practices from diverse global contexts

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 1:45 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Global Perspectives on Educational Change: Networks, Partnerships, and Equity in Action

Abstract

This paper examines how Research–Practice Partnerships (RPPs) facilitate educational improvement across diverse systems. Drawing on cases from California, United States, South Africa, and Scotland, it examines the principles, practices, and challenges of initiating and sustaining equitable, collaborative partnerships. Using relational trust, mutual learning, and Design-Based Implementation Research as analytical lenses, the study highlights how context shapes the dynamics of co-design, leadership, and system learning. Findings offer insights into how RPPs can function as Networked Learning Systems to promote localized, inclusive change. The paper contributes to rethinking partnerships as infrastructure for equity and sustained professional learning.

Authors

• Christina Murdoch Mills, University of California - Davis

• Pinkie Euginia Mthembu, University of KwaZulu-Natal

• Christopher James Chapman, University of Glasgow