Solihull College & University Centre is proud to announce the release of ‘Exploring Practitioner Research in Further Education’, a book co-edited by Dr Kerry Scattergood, Lecturer in Adult Literacy and founding member and chair of the Research College Group.
The book, which Dr Scattergood edited alongside Principal Lecturer at the University of Hertfordshire, Samantha Jones, unpacks how individuals in the Further Education (FE) sector conduct research and the transformative impact it has on the educational landscape.
The book offers a practitioner-centred approach to research and provides invaluable insights for teachers, professional development leads, senior leaders, and practising lecturers across the FE spectrum.
“This book represents a significant step forward in how research is approached and celebrated within the FE sector,” shares Dr Kerry Scattergood. “It not only showcases the incredible work being done but also empowers others in the sector to undertake research that can make a real difference.”
Using a newly developed writing framework, ‘Exploring Practitioner Research in Further Education’ demystifies the research process by showcasing the journeys of peers within the sector. The book highlights research drawn from a wide array of contexts, including general and specialist FE colleges, adult and community learning, offender education, work-based training, and college-based higher education across the UK.
With the inclusion of diverse voices from across the FE sector, the book creates a space for authentic perspectives while also providing a robust framework for those embarking on their own research journeys.
Principal of Solihull College & University Centre, Dr Rebecca Gater, English Lecturer and Teaching & Learning Coach, Rachel Arnold, and Dr Scattergood herself have contributed chapters to this seminal work.
Dr Rebecca Gater comments: “This book is a testament to the transformative power of practitioner research in Further Education. It’s fantastic that three colleagues from Solihull College & University Centre have contributed to this important work, demonstrating the value we place on practitioner research and our commitment to embedding a culture of research within our organisation. My chapter on senior leadership explores the personal narratives of today’s senior leaders, challenging outdated perceptions and opening the door for the next generation. By sharing these stories, we aim to inspire future leaders and ensure the sector continues to thrive with fresh ideas and diverse perspectives.”
Their combined insights, along with Dr Scattergood’s leadership as FE Research Lead and Family Learning Coordinator, further elevate the College’s reputation as a hub of academic innovation and research excellence.
Get your copy of the book here: Exploring Practitioner Research in Further Education
