ABSTRACT
This chapter sets out to inform and encourage design and technology teachers to carry out small-scale research studies to benefit them both personally and professionally by providing them with relevant knowledge and information to support such activities. It begins by explaining the rationale for why research should form part of every teacher’s professional development. It also provides an introduction to existing design and technology research and other research in wider but appropriate fields and details action research and the cycle of inquiry involved. It also describes information on how to plan such small-scale research studies in design and technology classrooms.
A section on why teachers should then go on to publish their research is presented including a description of some key journals and conferences in the field of design and technology that can support the development of their research. The penultimate section of the chapter provides details of two existing examples from design and technology teachers who have carried out and successfully published their own research, with the intention of encouraging the reader to believe that carrying out and publishing research is not outside their capability. The summary then highlights the key messages provided in the chapter.
