Education as a Self-Improving, Evidence-Informed Profession
is crucial globally because it promotes continuous professional development among educators, ensuring they stay updated with the latest research and teaching strategies.
This approach fosters a culture of accountability and effectiveness in teaching, leading to improved student outcomes and engagement.
Moreover, it empowers educators to make data-driven decisions, enhancing educational equity and addressing diverse learning needs more effectively.
Knowledge Management (KM) is important
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The OECD (2009) highlights that ineffective knowledge management hinders educational improvement.
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Developing KM tools is a concern across all sectors, including education
The Need for Knowledge Management Tools
Overview
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KM tools assist in finding, creating, using, sharing, and managing knowledge.
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Many educational KM tools are underutilized or lack widespread recognition.
MESH’s Role
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MESH has the potential to serve as a central hub for educational KM but invites collaboration and better ideas from others.
The Challenges for Research-Based Knowledge
Quality of Research
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The abundance of studies in certain areas complicates the identification of valuable insights.
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Systematic reviews and rapid evidence reviews help synthesize knowledge and establish a solid knowledge base.
Teacher-Researcher Networks
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Some networks are experimenting with rapid evidence assessments, with updates expected in future MESHGuides newsletters.
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Collaborations like Cochrane, Campbell, and the UK EPPI Centre offer models for creating systematic review databases.
Accessing Research-Based Knowledge
Current Barriers
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Teachers currently face challenges accessing relevant, regularly updated research summaries due to copyright issues and subscription costs.
Vision for Future Access
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Imagine a scenario where teachers can freely access updated research summaries tailored to their specific contexts.
Creating Research-Based Knowledge
Need for Significant Studies
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Merely producing small-scale studies that don’t contribute to existing knowledge is not effective for advancing teaching as a research-based profession.
Tools for Researchers
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Cost-free tools are available to help researchers produce internationally significant work.
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The Education Futures Collaboration supports an online platform for educators to collaborate on specific topics.
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The People Finder tool connects educators with similar interests, enhancing collaboration.