To get a better meaning of what research evidence is, you need to look at the definition of both words. Research refers to a systematic study that is guided by a topic. On the other hand, evidence is the data collected while conducting the research. Therefore, research evidence is the process of developing a topic and the data acquired after completing a study.
Research Evidence for Teachers
The importance of research evidence for teachers is that teachers need to be aware of what works and what does not work in a classroom. For example, if you want to know if a new strategy works or not, you need to conduct research and base your judgment on the outcome of the same.
Therefore, research evidence is essential for teachers because it helps them understand what they are doing right and what they are doing wrong. Furthermore, it allows them to understand which strategies work with different students and which do not.
In addition, as a teacher, you also have to keep yourself updated with all the new developments in education. For example, if you are teaching mathematics, you need to know about all the latest developments in mathematics education to use them in your classroom. Similarly, if there is something new regarding language education or any other subject area, then such information will also be helpful for you.
To get such information, you need to read research journals and books. Teachers are often recommended to read at least two research articles every week to remain up-to-date with what is happening in education.
Related: How can teachers be guided for a comprehensive digital system of maintaining the class records?
Research Evidence for Policymakers
In addition to teachers, policymakers also need evidence-based research to make informed decisions regarding policymaking. For example, suppose a policymaker wants to increase the number of schools that offer the Chinese language as a subject of study. In that case, you need evidence-based material that will help you decide whether or not this is a good plan and how it can be done successfully.
Research evidence is vital for policymakers because it helps them make informed decisions about different issues related to education. For example, if you want to know if there are any gender differences regarding math performance or not, you need to conduct some research studies to answer the same.
An educational action plan template is a document that provides a template for educational action programs. Guidance on educational templates can be found on Adobe Education Exchange. The structure of an educational action plan template is similar to that of an action plan template. However, the education-specific elements are added to this template. An educational action plan should contain:
- A statement of the problem
- A statement of the desired change (goal)
- The action to be taken to achieve the goal
- The persons responsible for the actions to be taken
- The time frame in which the action will be taken
- A review of the action
Conclusively, the importance of research evidence among teachers and researchers can be linked to providing a way to resolve any education-related issues.
