What is Evidence Based Practice, and (how) does it work in education?

We often think of research as a highly technical activity, perhaps based on statistical evidence of the impact of specific interventions – such as techniques, medicines, or other things. We will examine the promotion of ‘Evidence Based Education’ (EBE) policy makers, and some teachers and school leaders in recent years, using the practice of medicine as an example of a profession that has dramatically improved because of better use of research.

After considering the advantages and disadvantages, for education and teaching, of looking at research in this way, we will argue for a broader approach. The argument will outline different ways of using research, and the way that different interests might influence it.  We will close by proposing that thinking of the study of “education” as an ongoing conversation between parents, teachers, pupils, policy makers and wider society, as well as researchers, might increasingly be necessary to help us understand and improve education in the context of living in a democracy.