Research in Schools: 'How to' Guides

These ‘How to’ Guides are a quick and easy way to digest different aspects of research in education. From definitions through to potential pitfalls, and written by NFER researchers, they will help you to understand research methods and ensure your enquiry is based on professional guidance.

Ideal for senior leaders, teachers and other school staff who are interested in engaging with research and carrying out their own enquiry, with a view to improving practice.

Originally published in 2013, they remain an excellent set of guides for anyone engaging with and running action research projects in schools.

'How to' Plan your research
Meet your objectives.


'How to' Run action research
Do it yourself.


'How to' Run qualitative and quantitative research
From definitions through to analysis.


'How to' Use focus groups
Get the most from them.


'How to' Write up your research
Some tips to get you started.


'How to' Develop a questionnaire survey
Ask the right questions.


'How to' Run randomised controlled trials (RCTs)
An introduction.


'How to' guides collection
The first five guides in one.