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Methodological problems for evidence-informed policy

08 December 2022, 3:00 pm–4:00 pm

Eye glasses in front computer. Image: Kevin Ku via Pexels

Join this seminar to hear Tom Perry discussing his view that evidence-informed education is currently some way from being a successful evidence ecosystem, why this is, and what we might do about it.

This event is free.

Event Information

Open to

All

Availability

Yes

Cost

Free

Organiser

CEPEO

Location

Online or in person (room G02)
55-59 Gordon Square
London
WC1H 0NU
United Kingdom

Event recording

MediaCentral Widget Placeholderhttps://mediacentral.ucl.ac.uk/Player/93icc3F2

Evidence-informed policy requires an ecosystem for knowledge generation, exchange and use. There is growing understanding of how we can link up the research-policy-practice nexus.

In this seminar, Tom will argue that what has not been well understood are the implications for methodology of the use of evidence in policy and vice versa. The policy contexts and purposes in which evidence are used are decisive for whether the potential benefits of an evidence-informed approach are realised and have implications for how researchers working towards evidence-informed policy should frame the nature of their endeavour. 

Equally he will defend that there are fundamental methodological problems in social science which have serious ramifications for any attempt to use evidence in policy. These problems relate to understandings of causation, measurement, generalisability, and the (often field-specific) nature of social knowledge and phenomena. 

Dr Perry will draw on recent and current projects, including a forthcoming book, to discuss his views.


This event will be particularly useful for researchers and policy makers.

This is a hybrid event and can be joined either in-person or online.


CEPEO seminar series

The Centre for Education Policy and Equalising Opportunities (CEPEO) hosts an online research seminar series where guest speakers present cutting edge research. Join policymakers, researchers and practitioners to explore the pressing questions of our time in education policy and equalising opportunities.

Related links

About the Speaker

Dr Tom Perry

Associate Professor at University of Warwick

His research and teaching focus on research- and evidence-informed education policy and practice. Substantive topics of particular interest featuring in his research include applied cognitive science, structural reform, inequalities, accountability, school improvement and professional development.

Tom leads the University of Warwick’s education doctorate (EdD) programme, the research methods course for postgraduate taught students in education studies, co-leads a module on equity and effectiveness in education, and teaches on the advanced research methods course for doctoral students.