Unlocking the potential of research-informed practice: Insights into benefits, challenges, and significance among teachers in Catalonia, Poland, and England

Abstract

This survey-based study delves into the intricate interplay of research utilisation in the pedagogical approaches of a sample of 534 teachers across Catalonia (Spain), Poland, and England. Applying Baudrillard's Theory of Consumption lenses, we present novel insights into the multifaceted aspects of research use, including its benefits, costs, and significance within the teaching profession. Our findings underscore the interdependencies among the perceived benefits, costs, and significance of research utilisation, bolstered by factor analysis. Specifically, our results indicate that teachers regard research as a means to enhance their understanding of educational theories, providing valuable insights to inform their teaching practices. Moreover, research empowers teachers to challenge entrenched conceptions and adopt innovative pedagogical strategies. In addition, the significance of research use is associated with its alignment with school priorities and integration into the decision-making processes. Furthermore, teachers identified various obstacles to research use, including issues of research literacy, support mechanisms, and the accessibility of research resources. The study sheds additional insight into the dynamics of research utilisation among teachers operating within diverse national contexts. It underscores the intricate relationships between individual and organisational factors that shape and influence teaching practices.