This seminar examines the relationship between research and practice in educational research and explores how the relationship itself can be an independent research field. Educational researchers have long been concerned about the limited use of research in the classroom yet the gap between research and practice never seems to cease. In an effort to narrow the gap—albeit without much empirical support—researchers have considered increased ecological validity and different ways of disseminating research (e.g., study summaries). To this end, I will problematize the exclusive focus on practitioners when discussing the gap. I will argue that a fundamental cause of the divide is epistemological rather than logistical, that is, beliefs about each other’s occupations. In this seminar, I will first review obstacles to the research-practice relationship. I will then discuss potential ways of narrowing the research-practice gap, such as: (a) collaborative mindset; (b) the nature of research; (c) venues for a dialogue; and (d) institutional support. I will conclude the seminar by proposing that it is necessary to examine researchers’ (cf. practitioners’) perceptions and efforts in creating and facilitating a bi-directional and mutually-beneficial dialogue with practitioners.
Invites Magíster en enseñanza del Inglés como Lengua Extranjera
