Models and design principles for teacher research

Abstract

Teacher research is a way to bridge the gap between theory and teaching practice. Various types of teacher research can be distinguished, including most commonly: action research, selfstudy, lesson study, design-based research, and scholarship of teaching and learning. All types of teacher research are focused on improving school practice, stimulating professional development and generating knowledge about teaching and learning, although seldom combined in one study. Two design principles to increase the quality of teacher research refer to (1) alignment of research and teaching practice and (2) collaboration between teacher-researchers. These design principles might not only improve the quality of the research work, but also enlarge the signifi cance of outcomes of the teaching practice that is studied. While the immediate context of this review is secondary school, the fi ndings are relevant for all levels of education.