Institute of Education London

Expertise

The Institute is one of the largest centres of social science research in the UK, with more than five times as many world-leading scholars in education than any other UK university (RAE 2008). Our staff have expertise in a broad range of areas, and we are home to a number of specialist centres and resources. Our key areas of expertise are outlined below:

Disciplines of Education

Engaging with perspectives and methods across the range of social science disciplines encompassing history, philosophy, psychology, sociology and international and comparative studies.

The Organisation and Improvement of Learning

Investigating factors that lead to tangible improvements in learning taking into account broader social, cultural and historical context. Particular areas are: learning outcomes and learners; modes of learning; teaching and learning activities and their contexts; school leadership and management; post compulsory and higher education leadership and management.

Curriculum, Culture and Knowledge

Appraising the interrelations of knowledge, learning and culture in educational environments of all kinds. Specific areas covered are: curriculum, pedagogy and didactics; representation of language, music, arts, media; information technologies in education; production, management and mobilisation of knowledge.

Children, Families and Early Learning

Examining early learning and education for children in families and formal institutions. Areas of activity are: pre-school and early years education; parental and family support and care services; sociology of childhood.

Longitudinal and Social Research

Studying the long term impact of education and skills in employment, health, social and other outcomes through statistical and quantitative research. Longitudinal studies and quantitative methodology and sexual/reproductive health and health education are the two main areas of activity in this group.