The Educational Research and Educational Policy-Making SIG has an opening for a convenor, to work alongside current convenor Craig Skerritt

This SIG provides a space for BERA members interested in the relationship between research and policy in education. Rather than critiquing policies, the SIG is particularly interested in the procedures involved in making policies, and the role played by research. The SIG recognises that policies are not only made in government departments, but in schools and a wide range of education institutions.

Research interests 

• The relationship between research and policy
• The use of evidence in policy production
• How policies get produced
• Policy advice mechanisms
• What constitutes ‘expertise’
• The role of all education stakeholders in the policy process

SIG aims

The SIG aims to identify and enhance the various ways in which research can have a stronger influence on education policy. For example, the SIG’s 2024 work commenced with a webinar discussing a potential expert policy advice mechanism. It is intended that 2-3 webinars will be held per annum.

If you would like to be considered, key aspects of the Convenors’ role include:

• Preparing text for a regular (ideally once per term) newsletter to SIG members.
• Hosting at least one annual SIG forum meeting for all members (organised via the BERA office)
• Encouraging submissions of individual papers and symposia for BERA conference.
• Reviewing abstracts or acting as a third reviewer.
• Grouping together abstracts for the conference.
• Succession planning.
• SIG events
• SIG Forum Meetings
• BERA Conference
• Social media

If multiple expressions of interest are received an election may be run.

By agreeing to assume a position of SIG convenor, individuals are committing to fulfilling the responsibilities and obligations that go with that role. SIG Convenors are expected to exercise their own judgment to meet the requirements listed in BERA guidance and to seek further advice from the BERA Office if in any doubt on any of these matters. If any procedures are not followed then BERA reserves the right to take whatever action may be necessary to protect BERA’s legal, financial and reputational position.

This role is intended to serve a 3 year term, finishing 30 September 2028

The deadline to apply is 22nd January 2025