The latest version of the LTS Research Round-Up has been published and there are some interesting sections from the point of view of CfE, such as…

• When exploring the reasons for high performance in science in Finland and Korea as demonstrated by the PISA 2003 international assessment of scientific literacy, they said that the reasons for Finland’s success included a culture of trust towards teachers. Kim M, Lavonen J and Ogawa M (2009)
• In a study of a shift from ‘Professional Development’ to ‘Professional Learning’ in Tasmania the researchers concluded that “it was the teachers themselves, working within the department and the science education community, who were making the shift from professional development to professional learning“. Melville W and Yaxley B (2009)
• An Ofsted report on using creative approaches to raise standards concludes “pupils who were supported by good teaching, which encouraged questioning, debate, experimentation and critical reflection, enjoyed the challenge and indicated a sense of personal achievement. They became more confident and their increased confidence encouraged them to be imaginative, to develop and confidently present their own ideas.” Ofsted (2010)
• In a review of curriclum implementation in New Zealand school leaders agreed “that the implementation of the new curriculum should be carried out as an urgent, but gradual, process that avoided doing too much at one time. In addition, it was important for staff to develop a shared understanding of the curriculum and how to implement it“. Cowie B, Hipkins R et al (2009)
• In a literature review of ICT CPD for teachers the report concludes that “in order for ICT CPD to be effective…skills training was not enough, teachers need to appreciate how technology could enhance learning“. Daly C, Pachler N and Pelletier C (2009)

These and more in the LTS Research Round-Up.