Education Practice / Theory

Research in Education has been an established part of the University of Stirling since it received its charter in 1967. We are now a world-leading centre of excellence in educational research with a distinctive focus at the nexus of theory and practice.

Our mission is to undertake high-quality research which provides evidence for decision-makers at every level of education, from the classroom to government, and from the local to the global. We think critically, ethically and experimentally about education; also offering innovative contributions to research methodology.

Our work contributes to a critical, imaginative and creative thinking and practice of educational research as well as resolving key issues such as promoting equity in education. Our staff have major roles in national and international collaborative research networks. 

Our research areas

Our work seeks to resolve major societal problems such as achieving excellence and equity in pupil outcomes. To achieve this, we use an interdisciplinary approach to studying social and educational practice across different research areas.

Curriculum Making

Developing policy and practice through understanding curriculum

Professional Learning, Leadership and Governance

The changing nature of professional learning and leadership

Children’s Rights and Participation

Exploring how children and young people can make decisions about their education

Educational Linguistics

Investigating how communication interacts with social context

Learning for Complex Futures

 Judgment and decision-making in complex environments

PhD opportunities in Education Practice / Theory

We offer a vibrant, supportive environment for postgraduate researchers in education.  As well as the traditional PhD route, we also offer a PhD in TESOL Research and a Doctor of Education (EdD). Academic staff at the Faculty have also indicated areas in which they offer PhD supervision within their personal webpages.

Take a closer look at the subject areas in which we offer PhD supervision and find out how to apply.

Read more about how to apply and see entry requirements What's the difference between a PhD and an MPhil?

Research Spotlights

Student concentrating on exam
Research Spotlight

Education and the Curriculum for Excellence

How education experts at Stirling are helping to ensure young people get the best possible education.