new research areas in education

Research Topics & Ideas: Education

170+ Research Ideas To Fast-Track Your Dissertation, Thesis Or Research Project

I f you’re just starting out exploring education-related topics for your dissertation, thesis or research project, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll help kickstart your research topic ideation process by providing a hearty list of research topics and ideas , including examples from actual dissertations and theses..

PS – This is just the start…

We know it’s exciting to run through a list of research topics, but please keep in mind that this list is just a starting point . To develop a suitable education-related research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , and a viable plan of action to fill that gap.

If this sounds foreign to you, check out our free research topic webinar that explores how to find and refine a high-quality research topic, from scratch. Alternatively, if you’d like hands-on help, consider our 1-on-1 coaching service .

Overview: Education Research Topics

• How to find a research topic (video)
• List of 50+ education-related research topics/ideas
• List of 120+ level-specific research topics 
• Examples of actual dissertation topics in education
• Tips to fast-track your topic ideation (video)
• Where to get extra help

Education-Related Research Topics & Ideas

Below you’ll find a list of education-related research topics and idea kickstarters. These are fairly broad and flexible to various contexts, so keep in mind that you will need to refine them a little. Nevertheless, they should inspire some ideas for your project.

• The impact of school funding on student achievement
• The effects of social and emotional learning on student well-being
• The effects of parental involvement on student behaviour
• The impact of teacher training on student learning
• The impact of classroom design on student learning
• The impact of poverty on education
• The use of student data to inform instruction
• The role of parental involvement in education
• The effects of mindfulness practices in the classroom
• The use of technology in the classroom
• The role of critical thinking in education
• The use of formative and summative assessments in the classroom
• The use of differentiated instruction in the classroom
• The use of gamification in education
• The effects of teacher burnout on student learning
• The impact of school leadership on student achievement
• The effects of teacher diversity on student outcomes
• The role of teacher collaboration in improving student outcomes
• The implementation of blended and online learning
• The effects of teacher accountability on student achievement
• The effects of standardized testing on student learning
• The effects of classroom management on student behaviour
• The effects of school culture on student achievement
• The use of student-centred learning in the classroom
• The impact of teacher-student relationships on student outcomes
• The achievement gap in minority and low-income students
• The use of culturally responsive teaching in the classroom
• The impact of teacher professional development on student learning
• The use of project-based learning in the classroom
• The effects of teacher expectations on student achievement
• The use of adaptive learning technology in the classroom
• The impact of teacher turnover on student learning
• The effects of teacher recruitment and retention on student learning
• The impact of early childhood education on later academic success
• The impact of parental involvement on student engagement
• The use of positive reinforcement in education
• The impact of school climate on student engagement
• The role of STEM education in preparing students for the workforce
• The effects of school choice on student achievement
• The use of technology in the form of online tutoring

Level-Specific Research Topics

Looking for research topics for a specific level of education? We’ve got you covered. Below you can find research topic ideas for primary, secondary and tertiary-level education contexts. Click the relevant level to view the respective list.

Research Topics: Pick An Education Level

Primary education.

• Investigating the effects of peer tutoring on academic achievement in primary school
• Exploring the benefits of mindfulness practices in primary school classrooms
• Examining the effects of different teaching strategies on primary school students’ problem-solving skills
• The use of storytelling as a teaching strategy in primary school literacy instruction
• The role of cultural diversity in promoting tolerance and understanding in primary schools
• The impact of character education programs on moral development in primary school students
• Investigating the use of technology in enhancing primary school mathematics education
• The impact of inclusive curriculum on promoting equity and diversity in primary schools
• The impact of outdoor education programs on environmental awareness in primary school students
• The influence of school climate on student motivation and engagement in primary schools
• Investigating the effects of early literacy interventions on reading comprehension in primary school students
• The impact of parental involvement in school decision-making processes on student achievement in primary schools
• Exploring the benefits of inclusive education for students with special needs in primary schools
• Investigating the effects of teacher-student feedback on academic motivation in primary schools
• The role of technology in developing digital literacy skills in primary school students
• Effective strategies for fostering a growth mindset in primary school students
• Investigating the role of parental support in reducing academic stress in primary school children
• The role of arts education in fostering creativity and self-expression in primary school students
• Examining the effects of early childhood education programs on primary school readiness
• Examining the effects of homework on primary school students’ academic performance
• The role of formative assessment in improving learning outcomes in primary school classrooms
• The impact of teacher-student relationships on academic outcomes in primary school
• Investigating the effects of classroom environment on student behavior and learning outcomes in primary schools
• Investigating the role of creativity and imagination in primary school curriculum
• The impact of nutrition and healthy eating programs on academic performance in primary schools
• The impact of social-emotional learning programs on primary school students’ well-being and academic performance
• The role of parental involvement in academic achievement of primary school children
• Examining the effects of classroom management strategies on student behavior in primary school
• The role of school leadership in creating a positive school climate Exploring the benefits of bilingual education in primary schools
• The effectiveness of project-based learning in developing critical thinking skills in primary school students
• The role of inquiry-based learning in fostering curiosity and critical thinking in primary school students
• The effects of class size on student engagement and achievement in primary schools
• Investigating the effects of recess and physical activity breaks on attention and learning in primary school
• Exploring the benefits of outdoor play in developing gross motor skills in primary school children
• The effects of educational field trips on knowledge retention in primary school students
• Examining the effects of inclusive classroom practices on students’ attitudes towards diversity in primary schools
• The impact of parental involvement in homework on primary school students’ academic achievement
• Investigating the effectiveness of different assessment methods in primary school classrooms
• The influence of physical activity and exercise on cognitive development in primary school children
• Exploring the benefits of cooperative learning in promoting social skills in primary school students

Secondary Education

• Investigating the effects of school discipline policies on student behavior and academic success in secondary education
• The role of social media in enhancing communication and collaboration among secondary school students
• The impact of school leadership on teacher effectiveness and student outcomes in secondary schools
• Investigating the effects of technology integration on teaching and learning in secondary education
• Exploring the benefits of interdisciplinary instruction in promoting critical thinking skills in secondary schools
• The impact of arts education on creativity and self-expression in secondary school students
• The effectiveness of flipped classrooms in promoting student learning in secondary education
• The role of career guidance programs in preparing secondary school students for future employment
• Investigating the effects of student-centered learning approaches on student autonomy and academic success in secondary schools
• The impact of socio-economic factors on educational attainment in secondary education
• Investigating the impact of project-based learning on student engagement and academic achievement in secondary schools
• Investigating the effects of multicultural education on cultural understanding and tolerance in secondary schools
• The influence of standardized testing on teaching practices and student learning in secondary education
• Investigating the effects of classroom management strategies on student behavior and academic engagement in secondary education
• The influence of teacher professional development on instructional practices and student outcomes in secondary schools
• The role of extracurricular activities in promoting holistic development and well-roundedness in secondary school students
• Investigating the effects of blended learning models on student engagement and achievement in secondary education
• The role of physical education in promoting physical health and well-being among secondary school students
• Investigating the effects of gender on academic achievement and career aspirations in secondary education
• Exploring the benefits of multicultural literature in promoting cultural awareness and empathy among secondary school students
• The impact of school counseling services on student mental health and well-being in secondary schools
• Exploring the benefits of vocational education and training in preparing secondary school students for the workforce
• The role of digital literacy in preparing secondary school students for the digital age
• The influence of parental involvement on academic success and well-being of secondary school students
• The impact of social-emotional learning programs on secondary school students’ well-being and academic success
• The role of character education in fostering ethical and responsible behavior in secondary school students
• Examining the effects of digital citizenship education on responsible and ethical technology use among secondary school students
• The impact of parental involvement in school decision-making processes on student outcomes in secondary schools
• The role of educational technology in promoting personalized learning experiences in secondary schools
• The impact of inclusive education on the social and academic outcomes of students with disabilities in secondary schools
• The influence of parental support on academic motivation and achievement in secondary education
• The role of school climate in promoting positive behavior and well-being among secondary school students
• Examining the effects of peer mentoring programs on academic achievement and social-emotional development in secondary schools
• Examining the effects of teacher-student relationships on student motivation and achievement in secondary schools
• Exploring the benefits of service-learning programs in promoting civic engagement among secondary school students
• The impact of educational policies on educational equity and access in secondary education
• Examining the effects of homework on academic achievement and student well-being in secondary education
• Investigating the effects of different assessment methods on student performance in secondary schools
• Examining the effects of single-sex education on academic performance and gender stereotypes in secondary schools
• The role of mentoring programs in supporting the transition from secondary to post-secondary education

Tertiary Education

• The role of student support services in promoting academic success and well-being in higher education
• The impact of internationalization initiatives on students’ intercultural competence and global perspectives in tertiary education
• Investigating the effects of active learning classrooms and learning spaces on student engagement and learning outcomes in tertiary education
• Exploring the benefits of service-learning experiences in fostering civic engagement and social responsibility in higher education
• The influence of learning communities and collaborative learning environments on student academic and social integration in higher education
• Exploring the benefits of undergraduate research experiences in fostering critical thinking and scientific inquiry skills
• Investigating the effects of academic advising and mentoring on student retention and degree completion in higher education
• The role of student engagement and involvement in co-curricular activities on holistic student development in higher education
• The impact of multicultural education on fostering cultural competence and diversity appreciation in higher education
• The role of internships and work-integrated learning experiences in enhancing students’ employability and career outcomes
• Examining the effects of assessment and feedback practices on student learning and academic achievement in tertiary education
• The influence of faculty professional development on instructional practices and student outcomes in tertiary education
• The influence of faculty-student relationships on student success and well-being in tertiary education
• The impact of college transition programs on students’ academic and social adjustment to higher education
• The impact of online learning platforms on student learning outcomes in higher education
• The impact of financial aid and scholarships on access and persistence in higher education
• The influence of student leadership and involvement in extracurricular activities on personal development and campus engagement
• Exploring the benefits of competency-based education in developing job-specific skills in tertiary students
• Examining the effects of flipped classroom models on student learning and retention in higher education
• Exploring the benefits of online collaboration and virtual team projects in developing teamwork skills in tertiary students
• Investigating the effects of diversity and inclusion initiatives on campus climate and student experiences in tertiary education
• The influence of study abroad programs on intercultural competence and global perspectives of college students
• Investigating the effects of peer mentoring and tutoring programs on student retention and academic performance in tertiary education
• Investigating the effectiveness of active learning strategies in promoting student engagement and achievement in tertiary education
• Investigating the effects of blended learning models and hybrid courses on student learning and satisfaction in higher education
• The role of digital literacy and information literacy skills in supporting student success in the digital age
• Investigating the effects of experiential learning opportunities on career readiness and employability of college students
• The impact of e-portfolios on student reflection, self-assessment, and showcasing of learning in higher education
• The role of technology in enhancing collaborative learning experiences in tertiary classrooms
• The impact of research opportunities on undergraduate student engagement and pursuit of advanced degrees
• Examining the effects of competency-based assessment on measuring student learning and achievement in tertiary education
• Examining the effects of interdisciplinary programs and courses on critical thinking and problem-solving skills in college students
• The role of inclusive education and accessibility in promoting equitable learning experiences for diverse student populations
• The role of career counseling and guidance in supporting students’ career decision-making in tertiary education
• The influence of faculty diversity and representation on student success and inclusive learning environments in higher education

Education-Related Dissertations & Theses

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a research topic in education, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual dissertations and theses in the education space to see how this all comes together in practice.

Below, we’ve included a selection of education-related research projects to help refine your thinking. These are actual dissertations and theses, written as part of Master’s and PhD-level programs, so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

• From Rural to Urban: Education Conditions of Migrant Children in China (Wang, 2019)
• Energy Renovation While Learning English: A Guidebook for Elementary ESL Teachers (Yang, 2019)
• A Reanalyses of Intercorrelational Matrices of Visual and Verbal Learners’ Abilities, Cognitive Styles, and Learning Preferences (Fox, 2020)
• A study of the elementary math program utilized by a mid-Missouri school district (Barabas, 2020)
• Instructor formative assessment practices in virtual learning environments : a posthumanist sociomaterial perspective (Burcks, 2019)
• Higher education students services: a qualitative study of two mid-size universities’ direct exchange programs (Kinde, 2020)
• Exploring editorial leadership : a qualitative study of scholastic journalism advisers teaching leadership in Missouri secondary schools (Lewis, 2020)
• Selling the virtual university: a multimodal discourse analysis of marketing for online learning (Ludwig, 2020)
• Advocacy and accountability in school counselling: assessing the use of data as related to professional self-efficacy (Matthews, 2020)
• The use of an application screening assessment as a predictor of teaching retention at a midwestern, K-12, public school district (Scarbrough, 2020)
• Core values driving sustained elite performance cultures (Beiner, 2020)
• Educative features of upper elementary Eureka math curriculum (Dwiggins, 2020)
• How female principals nurture adult learning opportunities in successful high schools with challenging student demographics (Woodward, 2020)
• The disproportionality of Black Males in Special Education: A Case Study Analysis of Educator Perceptions in a Southeastern Urban High School (McCrae, 2021)

As you can see, these research topics are a lot more focused than the generic topic ideas we presented earlier. So, in order for you to develop a high-quality research topic, you’ll need to get specific and laser-focused on a specific context with specific variables of interest.  In the video below, we explore some other important things you’ll need to consider when crafting your research topic.

Get 1-On-1 Help

If you’re still unsure about how to find a quality research topic within education, check out our Research Topic Kickstarter service, which is the perfect starting point for developing a unique, well-justified research topic.

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Global education trends and research to follow in 2022

Subscribe to the center for universal education bulletin, emily gustafsson-wright , emily gustafsson-wright senior fellow - global economy and development , center for universal education helen shwe hadani , helen shwe hadani former brookings expert kathy hirsh-pasek , kathy hirsh-pasek senior fellow - global economy and development , center for universal education maysa jalbout , maysa jalbout nonresident fellow - global economy and development , center for universal education elizabeth m. king , elizabeth m. king nonresident senior fellow - global economy and development , center for universal education jennifer l. o’donoghue , jennifer l. o’donoghue deputy director - center for universal education , senior fellow - global economy and development brad olsen , brad olsen senior fellow - global economy and development , center for universal education jordan shapiro , jordan shapiro nonresident fellow - global economy and development , center for universal education emiliana vegas , and emiliana vegas former co-director - center for universal education , former senior fellow - global economy and development rebecca winthrop rebecca winthrop director - center for universal education , senior fellow - global economy and development.

January 24, 2022

• 12 min read

As the third calendar year of the pandemic begins, 2022 promises to be an important one—especially for education. Around the world, education systems have had to contend with sporadic closures, inequitable access to education technology and other distance learning tools, and deep challenges in maintaining both students’ and teachers’ physical and emotional health. At the same time, not all of the sudden changes precipitated by the pandemic have been bad—with some promising new innovations, allies, and increased attention on the field of global education emerging over the past three years. The key question is whether 2022 and the years ahead will lead to education transformation or will students, teachers, and families suffer long-lasting setbacks?

In the Center for Universal Education, our scholars take stock of the trends, policies, practices, and research that they’ll be closely keeping an eye on this year and likely in the many to come.

More than ever, in 2022 it will be critical to focus on strengthening the fabric of our global education system in order to achieve positive outcomes—particularly through an increased focus on data-informed decisionmaking. We have seen a renewed focus on different forms of data that are critical to enhanced education outcomes, such as real-time performance data, which allow teachers and other decisionmakers to course-adjust to the needs of learners to better support their educational journeys. Additionally, high-quality program cost data are needed for decisionmakers to plan, budget, and choose the most cost-effective interventions.

One way we are seeing these areas strengthened is through innovative financing for education, such as impact bonds , which require data to operate at full potential. This year, pooled funding through outcomes funds—a scaled version of impact bonds—should make a particularly big splash. The Education Outcomes Fund organization is slated to launch programs in Ghana and Sierra Leone, and we also expect to see the launch of country-specific outcomes funds for education such as OFFER (Outcome Fund For Education Results) in Colombia, the Back-to-School Outcomes Fund in India, and another fund in Chile. At the Center for Universal Education, we will be following these innovations closely and look forward to the insights that they will bring to the education sector.

As we look ahead to 2022, one continued challenge for many families is navigating the uncharted territory of supporting children’s learning with a growing number of school closures . But while the pandemic forced an abrupt slowdown in modern life, it also provided an opportunity to reexamine how we can prioritize learning and healthy development both in and out of school. Moreover, the cascading effects of the pandemic are disproportionally affecting families living in communities challenged by decades of discrimination and disinvestment—and are very likely to widen already existing educational inequities in worrisome ways.

One innovative approach to providing enriching learning opportunities beyond school walls that address the inequities in our current systems is Playful Learning Landscapes (PLL) —installations and programming that promote children and families’ learning through play in the public realm. A current focus for PLL at Brookings is measuring the impact of these spaces to show that PLL works and to garner greater investment in them. To that end, Brookings and its partners developed a framework and an initial set of indicators from both the learning science and placemaking perspectives to help assess the positive effects of PLL on learning outcomes , as well as its potential to enhance social interaction and public life in revitalized spaces. The framework will continue to evolve as we learn from communities that are testing the expansion and adaptation of PLL—this important work is just beginning.

The pandemic highlighted several trends in education that promise to be the focus of future policy and practice in 2022 and beyond: the importance of skills that supplement the learning of content, systemic inequities in education systems, and the role of digital technology in the education of the future. It has become increasingly clear that the memorization of content alone will not prepare children for the jobs and society of the future. As noted in a Brookings report “ A new path for education reform, ” in an automated world, manufacturing jobs and even preliminary medical diagnoses or legal contracts can be performed by computers and robots. Students who can work collaboratively—with strong communication skills, critical thinking, and creative innovation—will be highly valued. Mission statements from around the globe are starting to promote a “whole child” approach to education that will encourage the learning of a breadth of skills better aligning the education sector with needs from the business sector.

The past year also demonstrated weaknesses and inequalities inherent in remote learning that I’ll be closely tracking in the years to come. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggested that virtual learning presents risks to social-emotional learning . Further, research suggests that academic progress during the pandemic slowed such that students demonstrated only 35 to 50 percent of the gains they normally achieve in mathematics and 60 to 68 percent in reading. The losses are not experienced uniformly , with children from underresourced environments falling behind their more resourced peers.

The failure of remote learning also raises questions about the place of digital learning in the classroom. Learning will become more and more hybrid over time, and keeping an eye on advances in technology—especially regarding augmented reality and the metaverse—will be particularly important, as both have real consequences for the classrooms.

In 2022, I’ll be focusing on one group of children in particular–refugees–who are among those children who have historically had the least access to preprimary education. The pandemic has affected them disproportionally , as it pushed them and their families into poverty and deprived them from most forms of education during the school closures.

While much more investment in early childhood education research and evaluation is needed to improve evidence and channel scarce resources effectively, there are a few important efforts to watch. A report commissioned by Theirworld last year provided an overview of the sector and focused on a critical gap and opportunity to address the inequity of access to early childhood education in refugee settings by better supporting teachers and community workers. This year, Theirworld and partners will pursue two of the report’s recommendations–making the science of early childhood brain development widely accessible in refugee communities and building the evidence base on what works in supporting early childhood education teachers and the young refugee children they teach.

The report was informed by existing initiatives including Ahlan Simsim, which in 2017 received the largest known grant to early education in a humanitarian context. While the evaluation of Ahlan Simsim will not be complete until two more years, the Global Ties for Children research center, Sesame Workshop, and the International Rescue Committee will share critical insights into their learning to date in a forthcoming episode of the podcast the Impact Room .

This coming year I’ll be focused on how education systems can prepare for future disruptions, whatever the cause, with more deliberateness. The past two years of the COVID pandemic have seen education systems throughout the globe struggle to find ways to continue schooling. Additionally, there have been other public health crises, natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and severe storms, and wars and terrorism in different parts of the world that have gravely tested school systems’ ability to minimize the cost of catastrophes on students and teachers. Finding safer temporary learning places outside the school and using technologies such as radio, TV broadcasts, and online learning tools have helped, but quick fixes with little preparation are not effective approaches for sustaining and advancing learning gains.

In the age of broadcast and digital technologies, there are many more ways to meet the challenges of future emergency situations, but life- and education-saving solutions must be part of the way school systems operate—built into their structures, their staffing, their budgets, and their curricula. By preparing for the emergencies that are likely to happen, we can persevere to reach learning goals for all children.

By the close of 2021, a number of studies began to document the impact of COVID-19 on girls’ educational trajectories across the Global South. These studies point to promising trends –lower than expected dropout rates and reenrollment rates similar to (if not greater than) those of boys–while still highlighting the particular challenges faced by adolescent girls and girls living in poverty , conflict, and crisis .

In 2022, it will be critical to continue to generate more nuanced evidence—carefully considering questions such as “for which girls,” “where,” “when,” and “why.” And then we must put this knowledge to use to protect and promote girls’ and young women’s rights not just to education, but to participate and thrive in the world around them. Ensuring that marginalized girls and young women become transformative agents in improving their lives and livelihoods—as well as those of their families and communities—requires us to develop new strategies for learning and acting together.

At the Center for Universal Education, this means strengthening our work with local leaders in girls’ education: promoting gender-transformative research through the Echidna Global Scholars Program ; expanding the collective impact of our 33 Echidna alumni; and co-constructing a learning and action community to explore together how to improve beliefs, practices, programs, and policies so that marginalized adolescent girls’ can develop and exercise agency in pursuing their own pathways.

Going into year three of COVID-19, in 2022 I’m interested to see whether countries will transform their education systems or largely leave them the way they are. Will leaders of education systems tinker around the edges of change but mostly attempt a return to a prepandemic “normal,” or will they take advantage of this global rupture in the status quo to replace antiquated educational institutions and approaches with significant structural improvement?

In relation to this, one topic I’ll be watching in particular is how countries treat their teachers. How will policymakers, the media, parent councils, and others frame teachers’ work in 2022? In which locations will teachers be diminished versus where will they be defended as invaluable assets? How will countries learn from implications of out-of-school children (including social isolation and child care needs)? Will teachers remain appreciated in their communities but treated poorly in the material and political conditions of their work? Or will countries hold them dear—demanding accountability while supporting and rewarding them for quality work?

I’m interested in learning more about how pandemic lockdowns have impacted students. So far, we’ve only gotten very general data dealing with questions that are, in my opinion, too simple to be worthwhile. It’s all been about good and bad, positive and negative, learning loss and achievement. But I’ll be watching for more nuanced studies, which ask about specific ways increased time away from school has impacted social-emotional development. How do those results differ between gender, race, socioeconomic status, and geographic location? I suspect we’re going to learn some things about the relationship between home environment and school environment that will challenge a lot of our taken-for-granted assumptions.

In 2022, I’ll be tracking emerging evidence on the impact of the COVID-19 school closures on children and youth. Several researchers, including my co-authors and me , have provided estimates of the school closures’ impact on student learning losses, unemployment, future earnings, and productivity globally. But only recently are researchers analyzing actual evidence of learning losses , and an early systematic review finds that “Although robust and empirical research on COVID-19-related student learning loss is limited, learning loss itself may not be.”

Likewise, there is little rigorous reviews of remote learning tools’ and platforms’ impact on student learning during the school closures. After the pandemic, it is almost certain that remote and hybrid learning will continue—at a minimum occasionally and often periodically—in primary, secondary, and post-secondary education. It is urgent that we build the evidence base to help education decisionmakers and practitioners provide effective, tailored learning experiences for all students.

Finally, a key issue for education is how to redesign curricula so that this generation (and future generations) of students gain a key set of skills and competencies required for technologically-advancing labor markets and societies. While foundational literacy and numeracy skills continue to be essential for learning, a strong foundational knowledge of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics is ever more important in the 21st century, and I look forward to contributing research this year to help make the case for curricula redesign efforts.

I will be interested to see how parent-teacher relationships progress after the pandemic has (hopefully) faded into the background. COVID-19 has had an inescapable impact on the way we deliver education globally, but none more so than on how education leaders and teachers interact with students and their families.

For the past three years, I have been studying family-school collaboration. Together with my colleagues and partners, we have surveyed nearly 25,000 parents and 6,000 teachers in 10 countries around the world and found that the vast majority of teachers, parents, and caregivers want to work together more closely. Quality family-school collaboration has the potential to significantly improve educational outcomes, spur important discussions on the overall purpose of school, and smooth the path for schools and families to navigate change together. From community schools in New Mexico  to text message updates from teachers in India , new innovations are popping up every day—in every corner of the world. I’m excited to see what the future holds for family-school collaboration!

Education Technology Global Education

Global Economy and Development

Center for Universal Education

Brad Olsen, Molly Curtiss Wyss, Maya Elliott

September 12, 2024

Magdalena Rodríguez Romero

September 10, 2024

September 6, 2024

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Best Education Research Topics | Inspiration & Ideas

Introduction

What is education research, how do you choose a research topic in education, research topics for education research.

Education research plays a vital role in shaping the future of teaching and learning by exploring new methods, policies, and practices that can improve educational outcomes. Whether you are an educator, a student, or a researcher, selecting the right research topic in education is crucial for contributing meaningful insights to the field. This article provides inspiration and ideas for choosing compelling education research topics, covering a range of areas such as early childhood education, educational leadership, academic performance, and more. By exploring various educational research topics, you can address current challenges in education and help shape the policies and practices that impact learners at all levels.

Education research is the systematic study of teaching and learning processes, educational policies, and the factors that influence educational outcomes. It encompasses a wide range of topics, from the effectiveness of different teaching methods to the impact of social, economic, and cultural factors on student achievement. The goal of education research is to generate evidence-based insights that can inform educational practice, guide policy decisions, and ultimately improve the quality of education for all learners.

Researchers in the field of education use various methodologies to explore their topics, including qualitative methods like interviews and case studies , and quantitative methods such as surveys and experiments. These methods allow researchers to collect and analyze data that can provide a deeper understanding of how education systems work and how they can be improved. For example, a study might examine the impact of early childhood education on long-term academic success, or investigate the effectiveness of professional development programs for teachers.

Education research is critical not only for advancing theoretical knowledge but also for addressing practical challenges in the classroom. By understanding what works, for whom, and under what conditions, educators and policymakers can make more informed decisions that benefit students. Furthermore, education research often highlights the disparities and inequities in educational opportunities and outcomes, prompting efforts to create more inclusive and equitable learning environments. Whether the focus is on curriculum development, teacher training, student assessment, or policy reform, education research provides the foundation for continuous improvement in education.

Choosing a research topic in education involves careful consideration of your interests, the relevance of the topic, and its feasibility. Here are three key factors to guide you in selecting an effective research topic in the field of education.

Identify your interests and passions

The first step in choosing a research topic is to reflect on your own interests and passions. What aspects of education do you find most compelling? Whether it's early childhood development, educational technology, or inclusive education, starting with a topic that genuinely interests you will help keep you motivated throughout the research process. Your personal experiences in the field—whether as a teacher, student, or parent—can also provide valuable insights and inspiration for your research. By focusing on a topic that resonates with you, you're more likely to engage deeply with the material, leading to more meaningful and insightful research.

Consider the relevance and impact of the topic

Once you've identified areas of interest, it's important to consider the relevance and potential impact of the topic. Ask yourself whether the topic addresses current challenges or gaps in the field of education. For instance, with the increasing integration of technology in classrooms, a research topic that examines the effects of digital tools on student learning could be highly relevant. Similarly, topics that explore issues like educational equity, teacher retention, or the effectiveness of remote learning have significant implications for policy and practice. Selecting a topic with clear relevance ensures that your research will contribute to ongoing discussions in the field and have a tangible impact on educational outcomes.

Assess feasibility and resources

Feasibility is another critical factor to consider when choosing a research topic. Before committing to a topic, evaluate the resources available to you, including access to data, research materials, and time. Consider whether the topic can be explored within the scope of your project, whether it's a dissertation, thesis, or a smaller research paper . For example, a topic that requires extensive fieldwork or access to specific populations might be challenging if you have limited time or resources. It's also important to think about the availability of literature and previous studies on the topic, as these will form the basis of your literature review and provide context for your research. Choosing a topic that is feasible ensures that you can conduct thorough and rigorous research without becoming overwhelmed by practical constraints.

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Education is a broad and multifaceted field that offers a wealth of research opportunities across various areas of study. This section provides an in-depth exploration of potential research topics in education within seven key areas: early childhood education, educational leadership, academic performance, college students, educational psychology, multicultural education, and student motivation. Each of these areas presents unique challenges and questions, making them rich grounds for research that can contribute to the improvement of educational practices and policies.

Early childhood education

Early childhood education is a critical phase in a child's development, setting the foundation for future learning and growth. Research in this area can address various aspects of early education, from curriculum design to the impact of early intervention programs.

One promising research topic in early childhood education is the role of play-based learning in cognitive and social development. Play in physical education and in casual classroom settings is often viewed as a natural and essential part of childhood, and many educators advocate for its inclusion in early education programs. However, there is ongoing debate about the most effective ways to integrate play with formal learning objectives. Research could explore how different types of play, such as free play, guided play, and structured play, influence children's cognitive abilities, social skills, and emotional well-being. Additionally, studies could examine the long-term benefits of play-based learning, comparing outcomes for children who participate in play-focused programs with those in more traditional, academically focused settings.

Another important area of research is the impact of early childhood education on later academic achievement. There is substantial evidence that high-quality early education programs can lead to better academic outcomes in later years, particularly for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Researchers could investigate the specific elements of early childhood programs that contribute to these positive outcomes, such as teacher qualifications, class size, parental involvement, and the use of evidence-based curricula. This research could also examine how early education programs can be tailored to meet the needs of diverse populations, including children with disabilities and those from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Finally, the transition from early childhood education to primary school is a critical period that can have lasting effects on a child's academic trajectory. Research could explore strategies for smoothing this transition, such as the alignment of curricula between preschool and primary school, the role of family engagement, and the effectiveness of transition programs designed to prepare children for the shift to more structured, formal education. Studies could also investigate the emotional and social challenges children face during this transition and how schools and families can support children through these changes.

Educational leadership

Educational leadership is a key factor in the success of schools and educational institutions. Effective leadership can inspire teachers, improve student outcomes, and drive innovation in education. Research in this area can explore various aspects of leadership, from the characteristics of successful leaders to the strategies they use to achieve their goals.

One important topic in educational leadership is the impact of leadership styles on school performance. Different leadership styles, such as transformational, transactional, and instructional leadership, have been shown to influence various aspects of school culture and effectiveness. Researchers could examine how these leadership styles affect teacher motivation, student achievement, and school climate. For example, a study could compare schools led by transformational leaders, who focus on inspiring and motivating staff, with those led by instructional leaders, who emphasize curriculum and teaching practices. This research could provide insights into which leadership approaches are most effective in different educational contexts.

Another critical area of research is the role of school principals in promoting equity and inclusion. Principals play a crucial role in shaping the culture of their schools and ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have access to a high-quality education. Research could explore how principals can foster an inclusive school environment, support diverse learners, and address disparities in academic achievement. This could include studies on the strategies principals use to implement inclusive practices, the challenges they face in promoting equity, and the impact of their efforts on student outcomes.

Educational leadership also involves decision-making and the ability to manage change effectively. As schools face increasing pressure to adapt to new technologies, policies, and societal expectations, the ability of leaders to guide their institutions through these changes is more important than ever. Research could investigate how school leaders make decisions in complex, dynamic environments, and how they manage the process of change. This could include studies on the decision-making processes of successful leaders, the factors that influence their decisions, and the outcomes of their decisions for students, teachers, and the broader school community.

Academic performance

Student academic performance is a central concern in education research, as it is often used as a measure of both student success and the effectiveness of educational systems. Understanding the factors that influence academic performance can help educators develop strategies to support all students in reaching their full potential.

One key area of research is the impact of socio-economic status (SES) on academic performance. Numerous studies have shown that students from lower SES backgrounds tend to perform worse academically compared to their more affluent peers. Researchers could explore the specific mechanisms through which SES affects academic outcomes, such as access to resources, parental involvement, and exposure to stressors. Additionally, research could investigate interventions that aim to mitigate the effects of SES on academic performance, such as tutoring programs, after-school activities, and school-based support services.

Another important topic is the role of teacher quality in student achievement. Research has consistently shown that teachers are one of the most significant factors influencing student performance. Studies could examine what specific teacher characteristics, such as qualifications, experience, and instructional practices, have the greatest impact on student outcomes. Furthermore, researchers could investigate how professional development programs for teachers can enhance their effectiveness in the classroom, leading to better academic results for students.

The use of technology in education is another area that has significant implications for academic performance. With the increasing integration of digital tools and platforms into the classroom, research could explore how technology affects student learning. This could include studies on the effectiveness of online learning compared to traditional face-to-face instruction, the impact of educational apps and games on student engagement and achievement, and the challenges and opportunities of using technology to support diverse learners. Additionally, research could examine how teachers can effectively integrate technology into their teaching practices to enhance student learning.

College students

The college years are a critical period of personal and academic development, making them a rich area for education research. Research on college students can explore a wide range of topics, from factors that influence college choice to strategies for supporting student success and well-being.

One important research topic is the impact of financial aid on college access and retention. The rising cost of higher education has made financial aid an essential resource for many students. Researchers could investigate how different types of financial aid, such as grants, scholarships, and loans, affect students' decisions to enroll in and persist through college. This research could also examine the barriers that prevent students from accessing financial aid and how institutions can better support students in navigating the financial aid process.

Another key area of research is the factors that contribute to college student retention and success. While many students start college, not all complete their degrees. Research could explore the reasons why some students struggle to stay enrolled, such as academic challenges, student mental health issues, and financial pressures. Additionally, studies could investigate the effectiveness of programs and services designed to support student retention, such as academic advising, tutoring centers, and mental health resources. Understanding these factors can help colleges develop strategies to support students throughout their college journey.

The mental health of college students is another critical issue that has gained increasing attention in recent years. College students face a range of stressors, including academic pressures, social challenges, and the transition to independence. Research could explore the prevalence of mental health issues among college students, the factors that contribute to these issues, and the effectiveness of campus mental health services. Additionally, studies could examine how colleges can create supportive environments that promote student well-being and reduce the stigma associated with seeking help for mental health concerns.

Educational psychology

Educational psychology is the study of how people learn and develop in educational settings. This field of research can provide valuable insights into the cognitive, emotional, and social processes that underlie learning, as well as the factors that influence educational outcomes.

One important area of research in educational psychology is the role of motivation in learning. Motivation is a key factor that drives student engagement and academic achievement. Researchers could explore the different types of motivation, such as intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, and how they impact learning outcomes. For example, studies could examine how intrinsic motivation, or the desire to learn for its own sake, affects students' persistence and performance in challenging subjects. Additionally, research could investigate how teachers can foster motivation in the classroom, such as through the use of praise, rewards, and goal-setting strategies.

Another critical topic in educational psychology is the impact of cognitive development on learning. Cognitive development refers to the changes in thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving abilities that occur as children grow. Research could explore how different stages of cognitive development affect students' ability to learn and process information. For example, studies could examine how younger students' limited working memory capacity impacts their ability to solve complex math problems, or how older students' advanced reasoning skills allow them to engage in abstract thinking. Understanding these developmental differences can help educators design instruction that is appropriate for students' cognitive abilities.

The role of social and emotional learning (SEL) in education is another important area of research in educational psychology. SEL refers to the process through which students develop the skills to manage their emotions, build healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions. Research could explore how SEL programs impact students' academic performance, behavior, and overall well-being. Additionally, studies could investigate the best practices for implementing SEL in schools, such as integrating SEL into the curriculum, providing professional development for teachers, and creating a supportive school climate that promotes social and emotional growth.

Multicultural education

Multicultural education is an approach to teaching and learning that seeks to promote equity, respect for diversity, and inclusion in the classroom. Research in this area can explore how educators can create learning environments that reflect and honor the diverse cultural backgrounds of their students.

One important research topic in multicultural education is the development and implementation of culturally responsive teaching practices. Culturally responsive teaching involves recognizing and valuing students' cultural identities and incorporating their cultural experiences into the curriculum and instructional practices. Researchers could explore how teachers can develop culturally responsive teaching practices and the impact of these practices on student engagement and achievement. For example, studies could examine how incorporating students' cultural traditions, languages, and perspectives into the classroom can enhance their sense of belonging and motivation to learn.

Another key area of research is the role of multicultural education in reducing achievement gaps. Achievement gaps between students of different racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds are a persistent issue in education. Research could explore how multicultural education can address these gaps by promoting equity and inclusion in the classroom. For example, studies could examine how culturally responsive teaching practices can help close achievement gaps by providing all students with access to high-quality, culturally relevant instruction. Additionally, research could investigate the impact of multicultural education programs on students' attitudes toward diversity and their ability to interact effectively with people from different cultural backgrounds.

The integration of multicultural education into teacher preparation programs is another important research topic. Preparing teachers to work in diverse classrooms is essential for promoting equity and inclusion in education. Research could explore how teacher preparation programs can equip future educators with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to implement multicultural education in their classrooms. For example, studies could examine the effectiveness of coursework, field experiences, and professional development opportunities that focus on multicultural education. Additionally, research could investigate how teacher preparation programs can address the biases and stereotypes that educators may bring to the classroom and how they can foster a commitment to social justice and equity in education.

Student motivation

Student motivation is a critical factor in academic success and is influenced by a range of internal and external factors. Understanding what drives students to engage in learning can help educators design more effective instructional strategies and support student achievement.

One important research topic in student motivation is the impact of goal setting on academic performance. Goal setting is a powerful motivational tool that can help students focus their efforts and persist in the face of challenges. Research could explore how different types of goals, such as short-term versus long-term goals or mastery-oriented versus performance-oriented goals, affect students' motivation and academic outcomes. For example, studies could examine how setting specific, challenging, and achievable goals can enhance students' motivation to succeed in difficult subjects. Additionally, research could investigate teachers' roles in preparing students in setting and achieving their goals, such as through the use of goal-setting frameworks, feedback, and reflection activities.

Another key area of research is the role of self-efficacy in student motivation. Self-efficacy refers to a student's belief in their ability to succeed in specific tasks or situations. Research has shown that students with high self-efficacy are more likely to take on challenging tasks, persist in the face of difficulties, and achieve higher academic outcomes. Researchers could explore how self-efficacy develops and how it can be enhanced through instructional practices, such as providing opportunities for success, offering constructive feedback, and modeling effective problem-solving strategies. Additionally, studies could examine how self-efficacy interacts with other motivational factors, such as interest, effort, and resilience, to influence student performance.

The impact of classroom environment on student motivation is another important research topic. The classroom environment, including the physical space, social dynamics, and instructional practices, plays a significant role in shaping students' motivation to learn. Research could explore how different aspects of the classroom environment, such as the presence of supportive relationships, the availability of resources, and the use of engaging instructional strategies, influence students' motivation and engagement. For example, studies could examine how a positive classroom climate, characterized by mutual respect, collaboration, and high expectations, fosters students' motivation to participate and succeed in learning activities. Additionally, research could investigate how teachers can create a motivating classroom environment by using strategies such as differentiation, student-centered learning, and the incorporation of students' interests and preferences into the curriculum.

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Journal of New Approaches in Educational Research

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• Santiago Mengual- Andrés

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Journal of New Approaches in Educational Research  (NAER) emerged in 2012 from the research group  GIDU-EDUTIC/IN  and the educational divisions of the  IVITRA Project , both at the University of Alicante. Prof. Rosabel Roig-Vila (University of Alicante) and Prof. Santiago Mengual-Andrés (University of Valencia) have been leading NAER since its creation. Between 2012 and 2023 NAER was published by the University of Alicante. Starting from January 2024, Springer Nature will be publishing NAER. Since its creation, the objective of NAER has always been and will always be the same: to promote research, innovation and the transfer of scientific knowledge through the publication of the most innovative educational research of the moment.

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12 Emerging Education Trends (2024 & 2025)

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The education world is changing faster than ever.

Thanks in large part to improving technology and new research-led learning approaches, the education space was seeing a rapid shift towards high-tech approaches.

Here is a list of the top 12 trends in education happening right now:

1. AI Creates New Learning Opportunities 

AI has the potential to completely transform the education space.

That's because AI chatbots ( like ChatGPT ) can serve as personalized tutors, offering 24/7 support.

For example, a student struggling with a coding problem can upload the code to an LLM. The AI can generate personalized feedback. And then tailor future lessons to that student's strengths and weaknesses.

To be clear: AI isn't likely to replace teachers or tutors. 

Instead, AI will serve as a co-pilot that helps educators get more done in less time.

Besides personalized instruction, other ways AI can aid in education include:

• Analyzing student data:  AI can quickly analyze large amounts of student data to figure out where entire classrooms or specific students need more guidance.
• Lesson creation: Generative AI tools can help teachers quickly generate lesson plans, visuals and even lecture slides. 
• Note taking and action plans:  Students may not need to worry about taking notes. AI can turn lesson transcriptions into summaries that highlight key points.
• Automatic grading:  When properly trained with examples and detailed criteria, AI tools can evaluate homework, essays and tests.
• Improved accessibility: AI can provide targeted assistance to students that struggle with learning disabilities. 

2. Neuroeducation Makes Inroads

The emerging field of  educational neuroscience is shedding light on what works best when it comes to learning new concepts and skills.

And the field is quickly discovering that many mainstream education practices aren’t supported by research.

For example, these common teaching methods have all been called into question lately:

• In-person lectures
• One-size-fits-all lessons
• Memorization-based testing
• Unguided homework

While new approaches have been introduced to deal with timeless challenges like maintaining students’ attention . And encouraging critical thinking.

Neuroeducation is a subfield where teaching approaches are backed by the principles of neuroscience.

And as you can see below, interest has shown strong long-term growth.

One of the pillars of this field is personalizing the learning process for each student.

Either by teaching in small groups. Or by using artificial intelligence to cater lessons to each student's learning needs.

3. Microlearning Gains Traction

It’s no secret that humans have an inherent limit to how much information they can retain from a single learning session.

Especially when the subject matter is not covered again later.

But traditional education tends to overload students with long lectures…and expect them to remember everything they just learned.

(Or to study it on their own, which is a skill many students don't have .)

Enter: the emerging microlearning trend.

Microlearning is a form of spaced repetition learning, in which lessons are broken up into bite-sized chunks and repeated over time.

This is said to help new concepts and skills sink in for the long term.

According to microlearning proponents, short, spaced bursts of learning can significantly boost retention .

That’s probably why searches for "microlearning" have increased over the past five years.

4. Online Learning Gains Ground

According to Research and Markets, the online education landscape is set to become a $319 billion industry by 2025.

The three major benefits of online learning compared to offline are: cost, convenience, and scale.

And scale - the ability of one incredible educator to reach an unlimited number of students - has massive potential for raising the quality of education as well.

But as often happens in the education space, cost may end up being the deciding factor.

It’s significantly cheaper to take an online course than it is to enroll in a traditional four-year college.

Also, satisfaction rates for people that take online courses are high.

In fact, BestColleges.com’s Online Education Trends Report states that 94% of students who take online courses are satisfied with the experience.

This is why the "classroom" of the 21st century may be 100% online (via virtual reality or augmented reality).

Or a form of blended learning that's primarily done online.

One clear example of the online learning trend is the online course platform Udemy .

Udemy is an online platform geared toward professionals who want to improve their skills.

It hosts thousands of courses across hundreds of different topics. 

And as a business, it has a market cap of $1.3 billion .

Its growth has been meteoric.

More and more traditional accredited universities are offering online curricula as well.

MIT was a trailblazer here, offering pre-recorded world-class courses online for free with the MITx program.

But lots of other colleges have now entered the online education space, including offering fully online bachelor’s degrees .

Still, more universities started offering live online courses as an emergency measure during the coronavirus crisis.

It’s only natural that a good portion of them will continue to offer the same in the future as well.

And because some of the most popular tools being used to conduct live online courses weren’t specifically designed for education - for example, Zoom - you can bet that there will be many more purpose-built tools available to educators soon.

In fact, there are dozens of edtech startups aiming to fill this gap in the market.

5. Instructors with Star Power

Yes, Udemy is a top player in the online education space.

But there’s another platform that’s taking a different approach to elearning: MasterClass .

MasterClass has taken a unique spin on online training. Instead of hiring professional teachers (like college professors), their courses are taught by practitioners in the field (often celebrities).

For example, you can learn about filmmaking from Martin Scorsese.

Or business from former Disney CEO Bob Iger.

This unconventional approach has paid off big time for MasterClass. They've raised over $400 million to date . With MasterClass seeing unprecedented success, expect to see more education platforms tap into big-name instructors for their courses in the coming years.

6. Independent Entrepreneurs Launch More Online Courses

Udemy made it so anyone with a camera could launch their own online course.

Just one problem: Udemy keeps a hefty cut of the revenue.

So many course creators and “infopreneurs” are now choosing to sell courses from their own websites, cutting out the middleman.

Until recently, this could be a real challenge.

Between creating a course members’ area on your website to setting up payment processing and video hosting, a lot of administration time and technical skills were required to offer a course by yourself.

But a number of new players in the "learning management system" (LMS) space have made launching a course a lot easier.

For example, Thinkific .

Thinkific is an all-in-one tool for online course creation, promotion and hosting.

Like other learning management systems, Thinkific has made it super easy for entrepreneurs, bloggers, and YouTubers to host and manage courses on their own sites.

And to keep the vast majority of revenue for themselves.

It's been exploding in popularity:

Teachable is another education technology company in this space.

Similar to Thinkific, Teachable offers software and cloud hosting for course creation and management, as well as payment processing.

In fact, Teachable boasts that course creators on its platform have earned over $500 million .

If that's the case, maybe the teachers of the future won't be so underpaid.

7. Niche Education Platforms Take Off

General platforms like Udemy and MasterClass are great if you want to learn how to write a screenplay or cook a great meal.

But they’re lacking when it comes to advanced courses that professionals in technical fields need to advance their careers.

This is why niche platforms for specific groups are starting to pop up.

These platforms provide the kind of deep, advanced training that isn’t broadly available elsewhere.

For example, Cybrary provides courses for people in IT.

They even design their courses around tests that IT professionals need to pass in order to get important certifications.

Another example of a technically-minded niche education is  Hack The Box .

This online school offers training solutions for cybersecurity professionals (and students who want to enter the field).

It also uses gamification techniques to run in-depth competitions - complete with a scoring system and global leaderboard.

8. New Startups Offer More Homeschooling Options

About 3.4% of school-aged children in the US are homeschooled each year.

Lately, a variety of education startups have entered the homeschooling space.

One example is Outschool . 

Started by former employees of Google, Square, and Airbnb, this edtech startup matches students with teachers online for a live small-group, virtual learning experience.

Another example is Prenda .

Prenda's approach is different.

Rather than being online, Prenda's focus is "microschools": small groups of students who meet in person, outside of a traditional learning environment.

9. Higher Education Adopts Extended Reality

Extended reality (XR), which includes technology such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR), is transforming the education landscape by providing innovative ways to learn.

Overall, the XR market is predicted to grow at a CAGR of nearly 35% through 2028, according to data from Mordor Intelligence. A generous portion of that growth will come from the education sector.

A survey from EDUCAUSE reported that nearly  40% of higher education institutions have adopted XR for at least a few projects and 12% are using XR across multiple departments.

An overwhelming majority of respondents (90%) said their adoption of XR will somewhat or significantly increase in the next five years.

A number of colleges and universities are already using XR to facilitate learning.

At Colorado State University, medical school students use VR to dissect human cadavers.

Nearly 90% of the students who have used this technology say VR has helped them to understand spatial relationships, which is a crucial skill for potential physicians.

The University of Michigan announced its “ XR Initiative ,” and offered several XR courses last year . 

In their latest announcement, the university said they have plans to partner with Coursera in launching 10 new XR courses in 2023 .

The courses cover AR/VR design, entrepreneurship, and specialized content for growing industries all aimed at bringing online learning to the next level, according to the university.

10. A Renewed Emphasis on Soft Skills

More than 90% of HR professionals agree that soft skills are very important to the future of recruiting, according to a report from LinkedIn.

In fact, the importance of soft skills ranked higher than work flexibility, anti-harassment, and pay transparency.

Monster’s Future of Work Global Survey identified the most important soft skills as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. However, businesses report that the top two soft-skill gaps they’re seeing are in teamwork and communication.

This disconnect is leading many educational institutions and employers to place a renewed emphasis on soft-skills training.

In fact, a study of more than 150k students in Chicago public high schools found that building social-emotional qualities , such as how to resolve conflict and how to stay motivated to work hard, achieved better results for students than schools that focused solely on test scores.

In another example, some schools have suggested modifying traditional grading so that soft skills like communication, determination, and participation would be taken into account instead of just skill mastery.

When it comes to employees, companies are looking for innovative ways to close the soft skills gap.

Virtual reality (VR) is one way they’re doing it.

H&R Block recently started using VR training to teach their new employees the soft skills they need in order to handle angry customers.

More than two-thirds of the employees enjoyed this learning as compared to traditional methods and the company saw a 50% reduction in dissatisfied customers.

Murison is an industry-leading platform that’s enabling companies to create these VR training opportunities.

Their platform blends AI and live human interaction to create authentic training simulations specifically aimed at improving employees’ soft skills related to sales, customer service, DEI topics, and leadership.

11. Educators Considering Alternative Assessments

While some educational professionals have always doubted schools’ reliance on testing , the pandemic made many more question the validity and usefulness of summative assessments.

The State of Teaching and Learning survey from Instructure showed that fewer than 30% of parents and teachers felt that high-stakes testing was an important measurement of students’ learning.

The survey showed that 50% of administrators and 58% of teachers feel this way of testing is outdated and needs overhauling.

One reason for this is called Campbell’s Law . It’s the general idea that once schools tie test scores to a teacher’s pay, the teacher begins teaching to the test rather than making sure children get a well-rounded education.

Another reason for the distrust of traditional high-stakes assessments is that many believe they are classist and racist.

Several analyses have found that students from higher-income households perform better on standardized tests like the SAT and ACT.

Some accuse the test questions themselves of being skewed toward upper-class and White students.

These assessments are also proving to be an unreliable predictor of future success.

A study published in Educational Researcher showed that students’ GPA was a 5x stronger predictor of college graduation than their ACT scores.

Spurred on by complications associated with the pandemic, a few institutions removed their SAT/ACT requirements for admissions.

At Harvard, standardized tests are optional through 2026. The University of Wisconsin, Stanford University, and Miami University in Ohio—just to name a few—have adopted similar policies.

If institutions are no longer going to rely on standardized testing, what will they do instead?

The Mastery Transcript is one option.

Like the name suggests, it’s a transcript that records a student’s mastery of subjects and topics. There aren’t any traditional letter grades and it’s not a one-time view of what the student knows and is able to do.

Students earn “mastery credits” and the transcript serves as an evolving sample of their work. Evidence and abilities from inside and outside the classroom is included.

This transcript is currently accepted by 250 colleges in the United States.

As for testing elementary students , public schools in New Mexico tried a variety of strategies in 2022.

The New Mexico Measures of Student Success and Achievement debuted this year with shorter tests and questions that were deemed culturally appropriate for children in New Mexico.

There were also short-cycle tests. These were assessments at the beginning, middle, and end of the year.

12. Teacher Shortage Worsens

Rand Corporation’s most recent State of the US Teacher Survey found that  23% of teachers said they were likely to leave their current job at the end of the school year.

Research from EdWeek shows that 54% of teachers say they’re somewhat or very likely to leave their jobs within the next two years.

In a normal year, about 8% of teachers leave the profession.

Teacher shortages are already being felt across the country.

The US Department of Education reports that nearly every state suffers from a shortage of special education teachers. In addition, 44 states have math teacher shortages and 42 states have science teacher shortages.

Aside from the pandemic, a lack of pay is one of the top reasons why teachers leave their jobs.

Teachers are now paid significantly less when compared to other college-educated workers who had similar education and experience.

The average hourly wage for a substitute teacher currently hovers between $13 and $18 .

Several states are working to raise teacher salaries in order to entice new teachers to join the field and keep seasoned professionals from retiring early.

New Mexico, a state that is short 1,000 teaching staff members, enacted legislation in early 2022 that will increase teacher salaries by at least $10k.

Many other states are looking to ease their standards for teachers in order to attract professionals from different industries.

For example, the Florida legislature recently passed a bill that allows military members, even those without bachelor’s degrees, to teach in a classroom for up to five years.

Missouri, which ranks 50th in the nation in teacher pay, recently announced that the state’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will license teachers who score below a passing grade as long as they’ve maintained a 3.0 GPA in college and completed student teaching.

Some education professionals warn against strategies like these.

Randi Weingarten, the president of the American Federation of Teachers, said, “It’s very dangerous. It’s a good and dangerous example of the disrespect for knowledge in this country”.

That wraps up our list of the top education trends to watch in over the next year.

It's exciting to see where the education space is headed.

While some approaches may remain constant, new technology (specifically AI) is expanding educational abilities without increasing costs.

At the same time, new science-based approaches to teaching are improving the learning experience for students of all ages.

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Research Areas

Building on a legacy of research leadership beginning with the milestone Coleman Report in 1966, Johns Hopkins School of Education faculty and research center staff continue to drive the field forward.

Beyond trusted expertise and scholarly contributions, our faculty are known for working toward evidence-based solutions that can produce large-scale improvements in schools, communities, and organizations across the nation and around the world.

Our scholarship and research aim to tackle the most pressing issues in education. From curriculum studies to educational policy, our faculty work together and lead in a diverse range of research areas that directly impact today’s education environments.

With a tireless dedication to advancing knowledge and a deep-seated passion for building an equitable and inclusive future, we work to improve outcomes for all students.

Pioneering Transformative Approaches in Education

Administration, organization, and leadership.

We focus on optimizing educational leadership and management practices, investigating elements of school and district governance.

Curriculum Studies

Our interdisciplinary approach encompasses curriculum design, implementation, and evaluation.

Learning and Instruction

We study the many factors that contribute to optimal learning outcomes, aiming to make classrooms more engaging, inclusive, and effective.

Measurement and Research Methodologies

Guided by rigorous quantitative and qualitative methodologies, we aim to advance the field of education research.

Social Context of Education

We investigate how social and cultural factors — including ethnicity, race, class, gender, sexuality, and religion — impact learning

Research, Evaluation, and Assessment in Schools

We use data-driven insights to assess and improve the effectiveness of policies and programs.

Educational Policy and Politics

Our work influences and assesses the effectiveness of policies and practices that improve equity, accessibility, and inclusion in education.

Counseling and Human Development

We examine human development and how to support the well-being of all individuals in diverse settings.

8 Important Topics in Education Research Right Now

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Tip: Be sure to check out our “ Guide to the NNERPP EdWeek Blog ” page for a topical overview of all of the Urban Education Reform blog posts.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS

San Francisco

Can Summer School Help English Learner Students Succeed? : The Stanford-SFUSD Partnership ( @StanfordSFUSD ) looks at the potential of summer programs to close English Language Learner achievement gaps. Because English Learners are often required to take multiple language development classes, they miss out on other academic content crucial for college and career success, such as advanced math, science, and social science classes. A San Francisco Unified School District summer school model aims to address this problem — with success, as the research presented here shows.

Summer Learning for Immigrant Youth: A Model from San Francisco : The San Francisco Unified School District ( @SFUnified ) shares how its summer school model helps English Learners in San Francisco earn credits toward graduation, describing the program components that help make the model successful.

Exercising Choice: English-Language Learners and School Choice : The Houston Education Research Consortium examines English Language Learners’ participation in and barriers to school choice, finding that current English Language Learners were much less likely than their peers to participate in school choice, while former English Language Learners were just as likely as non-English Language Learners to do so.

• Toward Equity in Access to School Choice : The Houston Independent School District ( @HoustonISD ) describes how it implemented new policies and practices in response to research findings showing significant gaps in the number of former, current, and never English Learners enrolling in schools outside their designated school zone and thus taking advantage of Houston’s choice system.

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

New Orleans

Charter Schools, Pre-K, and the Question of Coordination, Part I and Charter Schools, Pre-K, and the Question of Coordination, Part II : The Education Research Alliance for New Orleans ( @ERA_NOLA ) outlines research on changes to New Orleans’ early childhood education landscape as the school district shifted to a majority-charter system. Specifically, the lack of central coordination was associated with a drop in the number of schools offering pre-K and the number of school-based pre-K seats, pointing to a broader issue of decentralized school governance.

Should Increasing the Availability of Public Pre-K be a Priority in New Orleans? : The Superintendent of Schools in Orleans Parish, Louisiana, shares his thoughts on the research findings.

From Age 3 to Grade 3: How Atlanta Promotes School Readiness and Achievement : The Urban Child Study Center , a cross-sector partnership based in Atlanta, introduces its work on developing the data infrastructure and research agenda required to support Atlanta’s preschool to third grade system.

Using Data and Research to Strengthen Early-Learning Efforts in Atlanta : Atlanta Public Schools ( @apsupdate ) outlines its vision for and work towards improving early education, including collaborative work to develop a longitudinal database and create citywide strategies.

TEACHER EQUITY GAPS

Massachusetts

Partnering to Assess Teacher Equity Gaps in Massachusetts : The Center for Analysis of Longitudinal Data on Education Research ( @caldercenter ) summarizes research findings prepared for the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education ( @MASchoolsK12 ) on unequal access to effective teachers in Massachusetts. The research finds that low income students are systematically exposed to less experienced and less effective teachers than their peers, echoing similar findings from other states.

Why Teacher Equity Gaps Matter for Massachusetts, and How Research Helps : A state department leader describes how this research on teacher equity gaps helps drive state-level policy conversations.

TEACHER SHORTAGE

Tackling Teacher Recruitment and Retention Challenges in Idaho : About 1 in 5 Idaho teachers did not return to their school the following year in each year of a recent REL Northwest ( @relnw ) study, and the teacher workforce is becoming less experienced. This post shares how a meeting brought together representatives from school districts, state education agencies, and institutions of higher education in Idaho to discuss these research findings and address teacher recruitment and retention.

Finding Common Ground Through Data to Improve Idaho’s Teacher Pipeline : The Homedale School District superintendent writes about the importance of the convening and how this evidence has helped the district.

Exploring the Potential of Teacher Residencies : REL Midwest ( @RELMidwest ) shares about a partnership with the Michigan Department of Education ( @mieducation ) designed to tackle statewide teacher shortage problems through exploring the potential of a teacher residency approach. Teacher residencies are usually partnerships between a school district and a local university, whereby teacher candidates apply learned concepts in a classroom under the supervision of an experienced mentor teacher as part of their training.

Challenges and Opportunities in Building a Teacher-Residency Program : Saginaw Valley State University College of Education ( @SVSU ) describes the creation and implementation of an accelerated teacher residency program to respond to teacher shortage problems.

TEACHER PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Multnomah County (OR)

Here’s What Works Best in Teacher Professional Development : The Multnomah County Partnership for Education Research explores teacher professional development best practices and reviews one district’s offerings at the district’s request.

Becoming a Teacher-Researcher : A personal account of how work with the Multnomah County Partnership for Education Research influenced a doctoral student’s journey.

SCHOOL CLIMATE AND CULTURE

How Do Principals Influence Student Achievement? : Principals are often seen as the primary drivers of improvements in student achievement, but given their complex role expectations and responsibilities and the myriad leadership strategies at their disposal, what strategies matter most for student improvement? The UChicago Consortium on School Research ( @UChiConsortium ) outlines research on how principals are most effective at achieving higher learning gains, describing how fostering strong learning climates and encouraging teacher leadership emerged as key drivers.

Building a Strong School Climate to Support Student Achievement : A school principal shares firsthand some strategies that have helped the school create a strong learning environment.

Why School Climate Matters : The Cleveland Alliance for Education Research writes about ongoing research examining the association between students’ perception of school climate and their educational outcomes, outlining preliminary findings suggesting that improved perceptions of safety, teacher expectations and support, and peer relationships are associated with improved student achievement.

Research Helps Make the Case for School Climate Initiatives : The Cleveland Metropolitan School District ( @CLEMetroSchools ) weighs in on the impact of research on district efforts around improving and measuring school climate.

SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING

New York City

How New York City Is Working to Improve Students’ Social-Emotional Learning : Researchers from the Research Alliance for NYC Schools ( @RANYCS ) are working together with practitioners from the Student Success Network to improve social-emotional learning measurements, helping build more valid and reliable SEL measures for a SEL student survey and supporting member organizations in utilizing the information that the survey elicits as part of a continuous improvement process.

A New Approach to Social-Emotional Learning Research: Putting Practitioners and Youths in the Driver’s Seat : The Student Success Network ( @SuccessNYC ), a community of 50 education and youth development organizations in New York City collaborating to improve student outcomes, describes how leveraging practitioner, researcher, and youth expertise drives improvement in social-emotional learning measurement and programming across the network.

COLLEGE ACCESS

Learning About Post-High School Pathways of Baltimore Youths : The Baltimore Education Research Consortium ( @BaltimoreBERC ) examines college enrollment and employment outcomes of Baltimore high school graduates to help inform policies and supports needed to improve graduates’ career and college access.

Using Data and Research to Promote Youth Success : Baltimore City Public Schools ( @BaltCitySchools ) outlines how data and research findings on their graduates’ post high-school pathways helps the district address challenges and how the district shares such research findings with students, families, and principals.

The opinions expressed in Urban Education Reform: Bridging Research and Practice are strictly those of the author(s) and do not reflect the opinions or endorsement of Editorial Projects in Education, or any of its publications.

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Four of the biggest problems facing education—and four trends that could make a difference

Eduardo velez bustillo, harry a. patrinos.

In 2022, we published, Lessons for the education sector from the COVID-19 pandemic , which was a follow up to,  Four Education Trends that Countries Everywhere Should Know About , which summarized views of education experts around the world on how to handle the most pressing issues facing the education sector then. We focused on neuroscience, the role of the private sector, education technology, inequality, and pedagogy.

Unfortunately, we think the four biggest problems facing education today in developing countries are the same ones we have identified in the last decades .

1. The learning crisis was made worse by COVID-19 school closures

Low quality instruction is a major constraint and prior to COVID-19, the learning poverty rate in low- and middle-income countries was 57% (6 out of 10 children could not read and understand basic texts by age 10). More dramatic is the case of Sub-Saharan Africa with a rate even higher at 86%. Several analyses show that the impact of the pandemic on student learning was significant, leaving students in low- and middle-income countries way behind in mathematics, reading and other subjects.  Some argue that learning poverty may be close to 70% after the pandemic , with a substantial long-term negative effect in future earnings. This generation could lose around $21 trillion in future salaries, with the vulnerable students affected the most.

2. Countries are not paying enough attention to early childhood care and education (ECCE)

At the pre-school level about two-thirds of countries do not have a proper legal framework to provide free and compulsory pre-primary education. According to UNESCO, only a minority of countries, mostly high-income, were making timely progress towards SDG4 benchmarks on early childhood indicators prior to the onset of COVID-19. And remember that ECCE is not only preparation for primary school. It can be the foundation for emotional wellbeing and learning throughout life; one of the best investments a country can make.

3. There is an inadequate supply of high-quality teachers

Low quality teaching is a huge problem and getting worse in many low- and middle-income countries.  In Sub-Saharan Africa, for example, the percentage of trained teachers fell from 84% in 2000 to 69% in 2019 . In addition, in many countries teachers are formally trained and as such qualified, but do not have the minimum pedagogical training. Globally, teachers for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects are the biggest shortfalls.

4. Decision-makers are not implementing evidence-based or pro-equity policies that guarantee solid foundations

It is difficult to understand the continued focus on non-evidence-based policies when there is so much that we know now about what works. Two factors contribute to this problem. One is the short tenure that top officials have when leading education systems. Examples of countries where ministers last less than one year on average are plentiful. The second and more worrisome deals with the fact that there is little attention given to empirical evidence when designing education policies.

To help improve on these four fronts, we see four supporting trends:

1. Neuroscience should be integrated into education policies

Policies considering neuroscience can help ensure that students get proper attention early to support brain development in the first 2-3 years of life. It can also help ensure that children learn to read at the proper age so that they will be able to acquire foundational skills to learn during the primary education cycle and from there on. Inputs like micronutrients, early child stimulation for gross and fine motor skills, speech and language and playing with other children before the age of three are cost-effective ways to get proper development. Early grade reading, using the pedagogical suggestion by the Early Grade Reading Assessment model, has improved learning outcomes in many low- and middle-income countries. We now have the tools to incorporate these advances into the teaching and learning system with AI , ChatGPT , MOOCs and online tutoring.

2. Reversing learning losses at home and at school

There is a real need to address the remaining and lingering losses due to school closures because of COVID-19.  Most students living in households with incomes under the poverty line in the developing world, roughly the bottom 80% in low-income countries and the bottom 50% in middle-income countries, do not have the minimum conditions to learn at home . These students do not have access to the internet, and, often, their parents or guardians do not have the necessary schooling level or the time to help them in their learning process. Connectivity for poor households is a priority. But learning continuity also requires the presence of an adult as a facilitator—a parent, guardian, instructor, or community worker assisting the student during the learning process while schools are closed or e-learning is used.

To recover from the negative impact of the pandemic, the school system will need to develop at the student level: (i) active and reflective learning; (ii) analytical and applied skills; (iii) strong self-esteem; (iv) attitudes supportive of cooperation and solidarity; and (v) a good knowledge of the curriculum areas. At the teacher (instructor, facilitator, parent) level, the system should aim to develop a new disposition toward the role of teacher as a guide and facilitator. And finally, the system also needs to increase parental involvement in the education of their children and be active part in the solution of the children’s problems. The Escuela Nueva Learning Circles or the Pratham Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL) are models that can be used.

3. Use of evidence to improve teaching and learning

We now know more about what works at scale to address the learning crisis. To help countries improve teaching and learning and make teaching an attractive profession, based on available empirical world-wide evidence , we need to improve its status, compensation policies and career progression structures; ensure pre-service education includes a strong practicum component so teachers are well equipped to transition and perform effectively in the classroom; and provide high-quality in-service professional development to ensure they keep teaching in an effective way. We also have the tools to address learning issues cost-effectively. The returns to schooling are high and increasing post-pandemic. But we also have the cost-benefit tools to make good decisions, and these suggest that structured pedagogy, teaching according to learning levels (with and without technology use) are proven effective and cost-effective .

4. The role of the private sector

When properly regulated the private sector can be an effective education provider, and it can help address the specific needs of countries. Most of the pedagogical models that have received international recognition come from the private sector. For example, the recipients of the Yidan Prize on education development are from the non-state sector experiences (Escuela Nueva, BRAC, edX, Pratham, CAMFED and New Education Initiative). In the context of the Artificial Intelligence movement, most of the tools that will revolutionize teaching and learning come from the private sector (i.e., big data, machine learning, electronic pedagogies like OER-Open Educational Resources, MOOCs, etc.). Around the world education technology start-ups are developing AI tools that may have a good potential to help improve quality of education .

After decades asking the same questions on how to improve the education systems of countries, we, finally, are finding answers that are very promising.  Governments need to be aware of this fact.

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Senior Adviser, Education

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Advancing middle grade research on critical pedagogy: research synthesis.

1. Introduction

2. materials and methods, 2.1. scope of the literature review.

• How do teachers across content areas use and promote critical and culturally responsive teaching practices?
• What strategies and classroom practices do teachers implement that examine and challenge power relations and center culturally and linguistically diverse students?
• What is the impact of classroom implementation of critical pedagogies on young adolescent learning?
• How do educators and researchers expand the concept of critical pedagogies to include antiracist and anticolonial teaching practices for action?

2.2. Study Selection

• Critical pedagogies AND middle school or junior high or 6th, 7th, and 8th grades, AND teaching strategies or teaching methods or teaching approaches or classroom techniques;
• Antiracist teaching AND middle school or junior high or 6th, 7th, and 8th grades;
• Antiracism or anti-racism or antiracist or antiracist AND middle school or junior high or 6th, 7th, and 8th grades AND education or school or learning or teaching or classroom or education system (later added AND education to further narrow results);
• Culturally responsive teaching or culturally relevant pedagogy or culturally responsive instruction or culturally inclusive AND middle school or junior high or 6th, 7th, and 8th grades or young adolescents;
• Anticolonial or anti-colonial or decolonial AND middle school or junior high or 6th, 7th, and 8th grades or young adolescents AND education or school or learning or teaching or classroom or education system;
• Critical literacy or social justice AND teaching strategies or teaching methods or teaching approaches or classroom techniques AND middle school or junior high or 6th or 7th or 8th.

3.1. Diverse Instructional Practices

3.2. culturally responsive pedagogies, 3.3. decolonial and antiracist strategies, 4. discussion, 5. conclusions, author contributions, institutional review board statement, informed consent statement, data availability statement, conflicts of interest.

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Share and Cite

Walker, A.; Yoon, B.; Pankowski, J. Advancing Middle Grade Research on Critical Pedagogy: Research Synthesis. Educ. Sci. 2024 , 14 , 997. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14090997

Walker A, Yoon B, Pankowski J. Advancing Middle Grade Research on Critical Pedagogy: Research Synthesis. Education Sciences . 2024; 14(9):997. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14090997

Walker, Amy, Bogum Yoon, and Jennifer Pankowski. 2024. "Advancing Middle Grade Research on Critical Pedagogy: Research Synthesis" Education Sciences 14, no. 9: 997. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14090997

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Home > Blog > Tips for Online Students > How Do You Build a Career in Education Research? 

Higher Education News , Tips for Online Students

How Do You Build a Career in Education Research? 

Updated: June 19, 2024

Published: June 15, 2019

Educational research or education research is research that revolves around education-related topics. It involves gathering and analyzing data to help solve challenges posed by the field of education. The ever-changing concept of education creates the need for continuous research. That’s why qualified education researchers are in high demand.  

Building a career in education research allows you to go deeper into educational issues and solve problems that the education system struggles with regularly.  

In this post, we’ll discuss the nuances of pursuing a career in educational research.  

The Scope of Educational Research

The scope of education research is vast. It involves the systematic investigation of various aspects related to teaching, learning, and educational systems . Education research can explore multiple dimensions of education, including:  

• Curriculum development  
• Instructional methods  
• Educational technologies  
• Assessment techniques  
• The impact of social and cultural factors on learning  

Some of the topics are evergreen while others change according to the current economic situation, new technologies, and immediate needs of the industry.  

Several examples of research topics for college students are:  

• The impact of technology integration on student engagement and academic performance  
• Examining the effectiveness of different teaching methods in promoting inclusive education.  
• Investigating the relationship between parental involvement and student achievement.  
• Exploring the effects of early childhood education on long-term academic success.  
• Analyzing the influence of teacher-student relationships on student motivation and learning outcomes.  
• Examining the role of social-emotional learning in promoting positive classroom environments.  
• Exploring the impact of standardized testing on teaching practices and student learning  

Overall, education researchers contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field and provide evidence-based insights for effective decision-making.  

Educational Qualifications for a Successful Career in Educational Research

If you have a bachelor’s degree in educational research, you have many career paths available. However, to deepen your knowledge, qualify for a higher salary, and seek out advanced positions, you would have to obtain one or several of the following qualifications:  

Master’s Degree

Many education researchers pursue a master’s degree. This advanced degree involves a detailed exploration of research methodologies, data analysis techniques, and theoretical frameworks.  

At UoPeople, we have a strong Master of Education in Advanced Teaching program. It allows students to hone their teaching skills and apply advanced knowledge to their educational techniques.  

You will gain in-demand skills that don’t just affect the success of your students but also help you create a powerful growth environment in the classroom. To apply for our M.Ed. program, you need to be 18 years of age or older, hold a bachelor’s degree from a U.S.-accredited educational institution or an international equivalent, and demonstrate proficiency in the English language .  

Getting an M.Ed. is an important step in building a successful career in education research. It can help you qualify for advanced positions in the field, achieve professional goals, and continue your education.  

Doctoral Degree

A Ph.D. or Ed.D. in education research can be valuable if you aspire to go deeper into the research part of your career. A doctoral program usually involves conducting original research to answer educational research questions, publishing scholarly work, and gaining advanced expertise.  

Research Experience

Engaging in research projects as part of academic coursework, internships, or research assistantships can provide valuable hands-on experience for people who pursue a career in education research.  

This experience helps develop skills in research design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation. It also looks excellent on your admissions application to master’s and PhD programs.    

Benefits of Pursuing a Career in Education Research

A career in education research can open many doors for students who want to solve educational challenges.  

Impact on Education

As an education researcher, you can make a significant impact on the field of education. Your research findings can shape educational policies and practices while improving learning outcomes for students and contributing to the future of higher education .  

Professional Development

Engaging in education research provides continuous opportunities for professional growth and development. You can enhance your research skills, critical thinking abilities, and data analysis techniques. They can become valuable assets in a professional setting, giving you a chance to pursue high-paying positions.  

Intellectual Stimulation

Education research offers intellectual stimulation and the opportunity to explore complex educational issues. You can study topics you are passionate about and conduct in-depth analyses of important educational data.  

Ready to Go?

A career in education research allows you to make a significant contribution to the field of education while enjoying multiple professional growth opportunities.  

As an education researcher, you will constantly challenge yourself. With time, your expertise can become essential to improving the education system in the country.  

In this article

At UoPeople, our blog writers are thinkers, researchers, and experts dedicated to curating articles relevant to our mission: making higher education accessible to everyone. Read More

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NSF awards $42.4M in new grants to support the future of semiconductors

Today, the U.S. National Science Foundation, in partnership with Ericsson, Intel Corporation, Micron Technology and Samsung, announced $42.4 million in grants for its Future of Semiconductors (NSF FuSe2) competition. The investment will fuel groundbreaking research and education across various semiconductor technologies, advancing U.S. leadership in semiconductor research and innovation and addressing key challenges in this critical field, including emerging computing tasks and applications, energy efficiency, performance, manufacturing and supply chains.

The NSF FuSe2 awards will fund semiconductor research to drive technology forward and strengthen the U.S. semiconductor industry and will support the broader goals of the "CHIPS and Science Act of 2022" to ensure long-term leadership in the microelectronics sector and growth in our regional economies across the country. As the demand for advanced computing capabilities grows, particularly in artificial intelligence and machine learning, the need for more efficient, scalable and reliable semiconductor technologies becomes increasingly vital. The awarded projects will explore novel approaches to overcome existing limitations in semiconductor design and fabrication, ensuring that the U.S. remains at the forefront of global technological advancements.

This marks the next stride in the FuSe program. One year ago, almost to the date, NSF launched the initial FuSe program that provided $45.6 million to fund 24 research and education projects supported by funding from the Biden administration's "CHIPS and Science Act of 2022."

"Innovation in semiconductor research is crucial to the future of our global competitiveness in modern electronics, computing and supply chains," said NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan. "These investments are not only supporting the future of semiconductors as a driver of our economy but also our national security. As such, we must ensure that we harness the full potential of emerging technologies and develop a skilled workforce ready to unleash new opportunities and tackle global grand challenges."

The broader impacts of these awards include:

• Advanced computing technology. The projects aim to revolutionize computing by developing cutting-edge technologies such as ultra-thin oxide semiconductors, novel chip designs and advanced algorithms. By enhancing the performance of AI workloads and developing energy-efficient solutions for edge devices, these innovations promise to democratize access to advanced computing and improve efficiency across various applications, from wearable health devices to large-scale data centers.
• Improved energy efficiency and environmental impacts . The projects will advance energy efficiency within computing systems, including hardware for deep neural networks, vertical power delivery systems and high-density 3D-integrated circuits. These initiatives could dramatically reduce power consumption and cooling requirements, addressing the growing energy demands of modern data centers and contributing to environmental sustainability.
• Advanced function and high-performance electronics. The projects aim to accelerate the adoption of advanced electronic, photonic and hybrid devices and components for sensing, memory and energy to enable cutting-edge functionality in semiconductor technology. They support the holistic co-design of systems across devices, circuits and algorithms by integrating new components and materials compatible with future technologies. Projects will focus on system-level strategies enabling the most robust, compact, energy-efficient and cost-effective solutions that address how analog and digital information can be processed, stored, communicated and acted upon.
• Next-generation materials and devices : Projects will focus on developing new materials and devices that overcome existing limitations in data storage, processing and quantum information processing, leading to breakthroughs in solving complex computational problems.

FuSe2 supports 23 cutting-edge research projects across 15 different states and 20 institutions, including nine first-time FuSe awardees, seven minority-serving institutions, and two NSF Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research jurisdictions :

Topic 1: Collaborative Research in Domain-Specific Computing

• Bridging Atomic Layers and Foundation Models: An Indium-Oxide-Based Versatile Neural Computing Platform. Purdue University.
• Co-Design of 3D Vertical Back-End-Of-Line Ferroelectric Memcapacitors and In-Memory Computing Circuits for Extreme Energy Efficiency in Computing. University of Minnesota, Twin Cities.
• Domain-specific probabilistic computing with stochastic antiferromagnetic tunnel junctions. Northwestern University.  
• Edge Reinforcement Learning with Algorithm, Architecture and Circuit Co-Design. Texas A&M University.
• Efficient Edge Inference and Heterogeneous Integration in Systems for Health and Chemical Sensing. The University of Texas at Austin.
• Energy-Efficient, Near-Memory CMOS+X Architecture for Hardware Acceleration of DNNs with Application to NextG Wireless Systems. Arizona State University.
• One-Shot PetaOps/W Analog Margin-Propagation Compute Paradigm Advancing RF-MIMO Radar Processing and Classification. Washington University.

Topic 2: Advanced Function and High Performance by Heterogenous Integration

• Heterogeneously Integrated Arrays for Massively Scalable sub-THz Communications and Sensing. The Pennsylvania State University.
• Heterogeneous 3D Integration of Energy-Efficient Electronics (H3E3) with Low-Dimensional Device Layers. Stanford University.
• Heterogeneous In-Package Photonics with Reconfigurable Optical Switching for AI Clusters (HEROIC-AI). University of Michigan.
• Heterogenous Integration of Wide-Bandgap Microelectronics and Power Electronics for Efficient Power Delivery to AI Processors in Data Centers. Virginia Tech.
• High-Resolution Imaging of Defects in Semiconductors: Detection, Reliability, and Mitigation. Purdue University.
• Magnonic Combinatorial Memory and Logic Devices on a Silicon Platform. University of California, Riverside.
• Co-Designing a Semiconductor-Based Quantum Architecture Platform for Scalable Quantum Information Processing. Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Topic 3: New Materials for Energy-Efficient, Enhanced-Performance and Sustainable Semiconductor-Based Systems

• AI-Enhanced Material-Device Codesign of Boron Arsenide as the Next-Generation Semiconductor. University of California, Santa Barbara.
• Co-Design of sub-2nm Wide-Bandgap Semiconductor Memristors for Neuromorphic Computing. University of Kansas.
• Co-Designing Indium-Based Sol-Gel Precursors for Extreme Ultraviolet Resist and Back-End-Of-The-Line Oxide Nanoelectronics. The University of Texas at Dallas.
• Energy-Efficient Nanoelectronics Based on CMOS-Compatible Magnetoelectric Transistors. The University at Buffalo.
• High-Performance & Energy-Efficient In-Memory Computing Devices with Co-Designed 2D Ferroelectric Materials and Stacks. University of Maryland, College Park.
• Louisiana Synchrotron-Sourced UV for Advanced Resist Materials and Mechanisms. Louisiana State University.
• SPRINT: Scalable, High Performance and Reliable Interconnect Technologies Based on Interface Co-Design. Texas A&M University.
• Strain and Temperature Ex-Situ Processing of Ferroelectric Oxides (STEP FOx) for BEOL Performance. Purdue University.
• Ultrafast Energy Efficient Antiferromagnetic Tunnel Junctions. The University of Arizona.

In addition, the projects will include comprehensive educational programs, from workshops and online courses to new degree offerings. They will also emphasize participation by all Americans, including those who have been underrepresented in STEM fields, and provide broader exposure to semiconductor technology, thereby fostering a diverse and skilled workforce.

• Learn more about projects funded by the FuSe program

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Areas with more faith schools have more segregation, new Sutton Trust research shows

16 September, 2024

New research by Sutton Trust, Social Selection on the Map , has found that areas with more faith schools, particularly those areas with Catholic schools, have higher levels of socio-economic segregation than those areas with fewer schools with a religious character. 

This research reflects the Sutton Trust’s report from January 2024, Selective Comprehensives 2024 , which found that faith schools were ‘consistently more socially selective’ than schools without a religious character. Whereas the January 2024 report looked at ‘high performing’ schools, this latest study by Sutton Trust looks deeper into geographical patterns of socio-economic segregation in the comprehensive system to show ‘the wider impacts of selection’.

The new report by the Sutton Trust is just the latest in a number of studies highlighting that disadvantaged pupils are more likely to be discriminated against in faith-based admissions criteria, with the Education Policy Institute and the Office of Schools Adjudicator publishing similar findings. 

Humanists UK has long campaigned for an end to religiously selective admissions policies on the basis that they segregate children by faith, socio-economic status, ethnicity, and prior attainment. In 2013 it helped launch the Fair Admissions Campaign which revealed for the first time the extent that schools religiously and socio-economically select and set out how religiously selective schools are invariably breaking the School Admissions Code.

Humanists UK’s Education Campaigns Manager Lewis Young said:

‘This report by Sutton Trust provides yet more evidence that faith-based admissions policies are bad for children, families, and society. Faith schools often perform better, not because of the quality of their faith-based education, but because they are socially selective, and they are socially selective because their faith-admissions criteria disadvantage children from poorer backgrounds.  ‘Every child deserves the best possible education but sadly many are being failed by the admissions criteria of state-funded faith schools. It’s time for the School Admissions Code to be amended to require every state school to be open to all regardless of religion or belief.’

Fact sheet: Six facts about faith schools

Who else do faith schools discriminate against?

Petition: End discriminatory selection in schools

For further comment or information, media should contact Humanists UK Director of Public Affairs and Policy Richy Thompson at [email protected] or phone 0203 675 0959.

Read more about our work on state-funded faith schools . 

Read the Sutton Trust’s report, Social Selection on the Map . 

Read our story on the Sutton Trust’s previous report, Selective Comprehensives 2024 . 

Humanists UK is the national charity working on behalf of non-religious people. Powered by over 120,000 members and supporters, we advance free thinking and promote humanism to create a tolerant society where rational thinking and kindness prevail. We provide ceremonies, pastoral care, education, and support services benefitting over a million people every year and our campaigns advance humanist thinking on ethical issues, human rights, and equal treatment for all.

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Research in the Department of Biological Sciences includes the following areas:

• Cell and Developmental Biology
• Microbiology
• Molecular, Cellular and Tissue Physiology
• Molecular Biology and Genetics
• Science Education

Undergraduate Research

An integral part of our biology undergraduate program is the opportunity to participate in a research experience. This experience may be a research project in a faculty laboratory or independent study with biological sciences education faculty. In laboratory research you will interact with graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, and faculty to learn basic technical and communication skills necessary to help you be successful in a variety of settings after graduating from the University. But more importantly you will learn how science is done and the processes by which scientific questions are formulated and then converted into experiments.

What are the benefits of doing undergraduate research?

By becoming a member of a research group, you will gain a depth of knowledge in an area of Biology that cannot be offered through classes at the University. You may also participate in conferences outside the University or establish personal contacts, which will be of benefit in future years. Many students engaging in research are encouraged to report their findings at local or national scientific meetings and publish their results in international scientific journals. Independent study with our Biological Science faculty generates a perspective often missing in classroom education.

What is a senior thesis?

Students who elect to write a  senior thesis  in Biology work for two semesters under the guidance of a faculty director on a project of their choice, with the goal of contributing something original and valuable to the scientific community. A senior thesis student presents and defends their work in front of a committee of three faculty in the spring of their senior year.

While a senior thesis is required to earn an Ho​nors Degree with Distinction, students outside of the Honors College can also complete a senior thesis. Students interested in writing a thesis typically become involved in research by the spring of their junior year.​

How do I get involved?

Although students interested in a research experience are encouraged to identify mentors in their sophomore year, students can do so in the junior or, more rarely, in the senior or freshman year. Each faculty member has his/her own criteria for accepting students into their lab. Most require a minimum grade point average, some a minimum time commitment and others specific courses. To begin the process, consult our lists of faculty mentors for a statement of faculty research interests and requirements.

Please DO NOT contact professors without first having submitted an undergraduate research interest form.

Undergraduate Faculty Mentor List

undergraduate research interest form

Once you have identified potential faculty sponsors, please submit an undergraduate research interest form. This form helps us find a place for you in a laboratory but does not obligate you to do research. Because the demand for research projects exceeds the number of openings in some laboratories, we recommend you identify three faculty members whose research interests you. Once the application has been reviewed, the Director of Undergraduate Research in the Department of Biological Sciences will submit your application to individual faculty and notify you of available positions. You will then be asked to make an appointment with one of the mentors. This will give you the chance to determine if the research project and the laboratory situation is right for you. You must let the faculty member and the Director of Undergraduate Research know your choice within two weeks of the interview. 

Creating new chemistry tools

College of arts and sciences announces new faculty & chairs, forging stem’s next generation.

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The Department of Biological Sciences occupies Wolf Hall which is located on the main campus and has well-equipped laboratories for research and teaching. Various  core facilities  including DNA sequencing, microscopy and advanced molecular imaging, whole-animal imaging, and cellular proteomics are available in the department and affiliated institutions including:

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• The Nemours Research Foundation at A.I. duPont Hospital for Children

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