Why is Education Important to Individuals and Societies in 2024?
by Imed Bouchrika, Phd
Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist
Why is school important? More than anything, education is a legal right under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. (UNICEF, n.d.) Besides, the quality of the workforce improves as the populace educates itself, allowing a country to compete in the global market and grow economically. (US Department of Commerce, n.d.) Unfortunately, poverty is a barrier to educational achievement , and there’s now a vicious cycle—education, which could help grow the economy, is hindered by poverty.
Education is a luxury for many. In 2018, out-of-school children and youth totaled 258 million. Sadly, even with more fortunate children having access to education, over 617 million lack basic literacy and numeracy skills. (UNESCO, 2019) The closure of schools worldwide due to the COVID-19 pandemic has only made matters worse, causing learning losses and rising inequality even in the wealthiest nations. (Shmis et al., 2020) There remains a need to strengthen education for individuals and societies alike.
This page delves further into the education importance at the individual and community levels. It will also discuss the rationale behind the different educational levels and throw in several quick facts on education.
Why Education Is Important Table of Contents
What is education, types of education, why is education important, global education challenges, quick facts about education worldwide.
World Vision (2021) defines education as the process by which people acquire or impart basic knowledge. It is also where people develop vital life skills, understand social norms, develop sound judgment and reasoning, and learn to discern right from wrong. Why is education important to society? Education is important to society because its ultimate goal is to help people navigate life and to contribute to society. (Abulencia, 2021)
Every country has an education system. However, they differ widely. For instance, the resources and money used to support education systems determine how the system is designed. As one might anticipate, a country's prosperity is closely linked to its education budget. Countries lacking basic facilities like running water are unable to support comprehensive education systems or even formal schooling. (Lumen, n.d.)
Meanwhile, despite there being many types of education, traditional schooling is primarily used to assess student progress. (Abulencia, 2021)
Formal, informal, and non-formal education are the three main types of education.
Formal Education
Formal education pertains to the learning of facts and concepts using a formal curriculum and in a classroom environment within an academic institution. Centuries of scholars have studied themes using codified approaches derived from ancient Greek thinkers. Historically, only the wealthy had access to scholarly books and the luxury of spare time to learn. The Industrial Revolution and its societal transformations made education more accessible. Many new middle-class families found new schooling options. (Lumen, n.d.)
Today, most people are expected to receive a minimum education, which usually starts from elementary school. Students undergo a learning process under the tutelage of qualified instructors, and the curricula and tests are geared to ensure they acquire essential facts and concepts.
Informal Education
Often, instruction is neither planned nor does it follow a set schedule or curriculum. It is spontaneous and natural. Such is informal education. It takes place outside of an academic institution. This occurs when people gain skills or knowledge from home, libraries, or educational websites via a device. Informal education can also include learning from community elders.
Participation in society is one way to gain informal education. The teachers are usually parents, relatives, and neighbors, and individuals learn basic life skills, from how to dress for various occasions, shop for and prepare food, and keep their bodies clean.
Meanwhile, cultural transmission, while it may happen in a formal setting, would most likely be a part of informal education. It is how people absorb their culture's values, beliefs, and social standards.
Non-Formal Education
Non-formal education is a hybrid of formal and informal education. It has a set schedule and is systematic, but does not necessarily take place in a school setting. Its schedule and curriculum are flexible, and it usually requires no age limit.
Non-formal education includes community-based classes, vocational training, and short programs led by industry practitioners, who are not necessarily professional educators.
How important is education? Education is vital for many reasons. Through education, people learn to read, write, talk, and listen. In general, education relates to a person's life goals and future well-being. People with higher education are deemed more employable and earn more. (Abulencia, 2021) Besides, education alleviates poverty and hunger, allowing individuals to prosper. That’s why parents try to keep their kids in school and governments seek to make education more accessible to both children and adults. (UNESCO, 2011)
Besides, education helps girls and women achieve gender equality. To boot, the rate of teenage pregnancy is reduced by 6% , owing to girls’ extra years of schooling according to the World Bank. UNESCO also found that a child born to a mother who can read has a 50% likelihood of living past the age of five . Thus, education reduces child mortality rate.
A study discussed a reverse scenario to answer the question: Why is education important for success? In “The Functional Relationship of Education with Economic, Philosophy and Political Philosophy” published in the International Journal of Social and Management Studies , Deak and Tanama (2021) stressed that “Failure to build education will give birth to various crucial problems: unemployment, crime, drug abuse, and for the government, economic progress, in many ways, relies on support from science and technology. ” As such, education is vital both to society and individuals, and more reasons are provided below.
18 Reasons Why Education Is Important to Individuals
Specifically, why is education important for children? If all pupils in low-income countries could read before graduation, entire cultures could transform. UNESCO estimates 171 million people to be helped. However, education isn't simply about avoiding poverty. It's about quality of life, career options, and many other advantages.
Education is vital during the early childhood development phases, the period for youngsters to develop social and mental abilities that are vital to their future growth and success. Early childhood education allows for self-discovery and the discovery of individual interests.
The value of education goes well beyond what kids can learn in a classroom since they also learn how to create artwork and music, and education helps them evaluate what they see and to learn from their mistakes.
Children can start setting goals early on by learning to do so. Education gives them the ability to set goals and attain them.
Reading, writing, and math skills are basic skills gained from education. These skills enable self-reliance and empowerment. Reading opens the door to a vast world of knowledge and information. Meanwhile, people can start a business when they can budget and calculate expenses at least.
Literacy, along with the ability to create opinions, increases self-reliance and confidence.
Education saves individuals from being taken advantage of by others.
Schooling teaches people how to make sound judgments, thus preparing the youth for adulthood, where daily decisions, big and little, become part of their lives.
Income is typically tied to a person's educational attainment. An excellent education usually leads to a better-paid career and provides the necessary skills.
It provides steadiness in life, which no one can take away from you. If we are educated, it is something that belongs to us alone, allowing us to rely on ourselves.
Education teaches people how to think critically, logically, and make independent judgments. The challenges of adulthood include paying off student loans, finding work, buying a house, and providing for one's family. Those who have spent years learning should be able to make sound decisions in these situations.
Depending on an individual’s goal, general education, at the very least, helps in realizing dreams.
Education extends lives. A study shows that each year of education adds 1.7 years to people’s lives by the age of 35. (Lleras-Muney, 2005)
Education is important to people’s personal growth.
Education can help people better understand themselves. They can learn about themselves through books, courses, or even professional advice.
Education informs people about the world, what's going on, and who's around.
Educational opportunities can help people become more self-aware of their talents and weaknesses.
In an argument, if people are not well-informed and have no straight facts, they are not likely to prevail. If they are concerned about something, being educated can help them rationally analyze a problem and understand all aspects.
Knowing the appropriate path for them can help people stay focused and on track.
10 Reasons Why Education Is Important to Societies
Why is education important in our society? Education, like a sociology major , is vital to a society's progress. Educated people can substantially contribute to their families and society, therefore creating a stable and interesting community.
People with one more year of schooling earn 10% more in many developing countries. These earnings, in turn, help to drive national economic growth. No country has ever experienced sustained and rapid growth without attaining an adult literacy rate of at least 40%. (Center for Global Development, n.d.) Sadly, to date, countries, the United States included, are facing educational disparity. (Lumen, n.d.) Here are more benefits and insight into the importance of education in society.
Education dissolves cultural barriers and empowers people all across the world.
Countries with high literacy rates progress more in the development of humans and the economy. Countries with higher literacy rates tend to be wealthier. (Cameron & Cameron, 2005)
Educated people are more welcome in today's culture. Education is thought to make you a productive member of society and can make you feel like you are contributing.
Educated youngsters can do more for their communities. Many of the youth aspire to be teachers, doctors, or government officials.
While international peace may seem far-fetched, education might bring people closer than they think. With equal access to education, there would be fewer socio-economic divides.
Education is important on both the personal and global level, as it keeps the world secure and peaceful.
In an ideal society, there is no discrimination based on race, gender, religion, socioeconomic class, or literacy. Education can help one form strong beliefs and appreciate the viewpoints of others.
To contribute to modern society, people must learn about culture, history, and other significant topics. People who are educated can quickly distinguish between right and wrong, therefore reducing crime.
Digital education lets people and companies connect globally. Borders are gone. Communication with people from different countries and cultures broadens horizons and helps us understand and appreciate one another.
Education brings respect, a greater social and professional status, financial security, family stability, and much more. Owning a home provides stability and security to children, which helps them succeed.
Why Are the Different Levels of Education Important?
Every year or level of education builds up knowledge and skills that people have. While the higher level of education could give people better career outlooks and allow them to contribute more to society, such a level could not be reached without going through the basics. Every level of education is vital.
Kindergarten
A kindergarten—also called a preschool or nursery school is where kids learn by playing and singing. This level is where kids are introduced to a new culture where they can meet new friends and socialize. Children are taught how to live a morally decent life. Ultimately, they are prepared for primary school.
Primary School
This level is where kids learn reading, writing, and mathematics. Pupils are evaluated through homework, classwork, and exams to check if they grasped a topic or the entire course and may move on to the next level. This period, while preparatory for secondary school, is vital to all levels of higher education since this is where fundamentals of studying and learning start to develop.
Secondary School
At this level, students learn basic skills needed for various jobs. It is sometimes split into two parts, middle and high school. Secondary school exposes students to a wider range of disciplines to enlighten them on issues that touch their daily lives. Success in this level is determined by whether students understand concepts and ideas, preparing them for the more complex knowledge provided in tertiary education. Students at this level are also prepared for employment.
Tertiary School
At this level, students are mature enough to tell good from bad without being instructed. Building from their general education , they are exposed to various career paths to let them gather knowledge and skills on how to handle employment. The outcome of this stage will determine an individual's readiness to enter the workforce.
Post-Graduate School
Some students pursue further education after completion of a college degree. Those who wish to enhance their professional knowledge and skills may opt for a master's degree. Meanwhile, those who are looking into a career that emphasizes research, analytical, and writing skills to fill industrial knowledge gaps may pursue a doctorate degree. Of course, those who reach these levels of education tend to have better career prospects.
UNESCO and the World Bank are challenging education systems to address key issues of education and break the learning crisis for a brighter future for humanity.
In the report, “Reimagining Our Futures Together: a New Social Contract for Education,” UNESCO (2021) points out climate change, democratic backsliding, growing social inequality, and growing social fragmentation as the four key issues on which all countries must center their education systems.
Fernando Reimers, director of Harvard University’s Global Education Innovation Initiative and a member of UNESCO’s commission on the Futures of Education, as quoted in CNBC, said that the future of humanity is jeopardized unless educational institutions deliberately align what they do with these four key challenges.
Meanwhile, the World Bank (2019) stressed that being in school is not the same as learning. The ability to calculate change from a transaction, read a doctor's instructions, or comprehend a bus schedule are basic skills that hundreds of millions of children lack.
Why is education so important? Human capital is built through education. A World Bank Group (2018) research suggests 56% of children born today worldwide could lose over half their potential lifetime earnings since their governments are not investing effectively to ensure their health, education, and resilience for the future workplace.
According to the World Bank (2019), the learning crisis persists because many education institutions in poor countries lack data on who is learning and who is not. As such, they cannot do anything about it. Since future employment requirements are unknown, the challenge is for schools and teachers to equip children with more than the fundamentals of reading and writing. Students must be able to analyze data, form opinions, be creative, communicate effectively, collaborate, and be resilient.
Dealing with these key issues and making sure the learning crisis is addressed is imperative to the future of societies. The World Bank (2019) stressed that change starts with great teachers, and when schools and education systems are well-managed, learning takes place. Besides, educators should take advantage of the new possibilities that technology brings to learning.
Here are some interesting facts about education worldwide
88% of girls and 91% of boys obtained primary education, and more females earned a higher tertiary education than males. (World Economic Forum, 2019)
In 2020, the primary school completion rate worldwide was 90.14%. (UNESCO, 2021e)
In the same year, the lower secondary completion rate was around 77%. (UNESCO, 2021d)
Meanwhile, the literacy rate of adults aged 15 and above was 86.7%. (UNESCO, 2021c)
The literacy rate of adult females aged 15 and above was 83.3% while that of males was 90%. (UNESCO, 2021a; UNESCO, 2021b)
The Times Higher Education recognized Oxford as the best institution in the world for the academic year 2021/2022. The California Institute of Technology, Harvard, Stanford, and MIT rounded out the top five universities that year. (THE, 2021)
The Time for Education Reformation Is Now
Investing in education pays off in the long run, which is why it takes time. It will take a generation to reap the rewards of excellent teachers, effective technology use, and better education system administration. However, history demonstrates that countries with rapid growth and prosperity all took education seriously and spent it wisely. (The World Bank, 2019)
Ultimately, the dropout rate is decreasing but issues with income persist . The youth needs to continue learning to adapt to changing circumstances and prosper in an increasingly competitive global economy and constantly changing world of employment. As such, the time to reform education is now if society is to reap the benefits of education to an individual and our society soon.
Key Insights
Legal Right and Economic Growth : Education is a fundamental human right recognized by the United Nations, and it significantly contributes to economic growth by enhancing the quality of the workforce.
Barriers to Education : Poverty remains a significant barrier to accessing education, perpetuating a cycle where education, which could alleviate poverty, is itself hindered by it.
Global Education Statistics : In 2018, 258 million children and youth were out of school, and over 617 million lacked basic literacy and numeracy skills.
Impact of COVID-19 : The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated educational inequalities and caused significant learning losses worldwide.
Types of Education : Education can be formal (structured and within academic institutions), informal (spontaneous and outside formal settings), and non-formal (structured but flexible, not confined to schools).
Importance of Education : Education is crucial for individual development, improving literacy, and numeracy, reducing poverty, enhancing self-reliance, and boosting personal and professional growth.
Levels of Education : Each educational level, from kindergarten to post-graduate studies, builds foundational skills and knowledge essential for personal development and societal contribution.
Global Education Challenges : Key global challenges include addressing climate change, democratic backsliding, social inequality, and social fragmentation through education.
Quick Facts : Primary school completion rate worldwide was 90.14% in 2020, and the adult literacy rate was 86.7%. Oxford University was ranked the best institution in the world for the academic year 2021/2022.
Why is education important for individuals? Education is crucial for individual development as it enhances literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, and decision-making skills. It also improves employability, income potential, and personal growth.
How does education contribute to economic growth? Education improves the quality of the workforce, making a country more competitive in the global market. Higher literacy and educational attainment levels are associated with economic prosperity and development.
What are the main types of education? The main types of education are formal education (structured learning in academic institutions), informal education (spontaneous learning outside formal settings), and non-formal education (structured but flexible learning outside traditional schools).
What are the global challenges in education? Global challenges in education include addressing poverty, ensuring equitable access, improving literacy and numeracy skills, adapting to technological advancements, and responding to crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
How does education impact society? Education fosters social cohesion, reduces crime, promotes equality, and enhances civic participation. It helps individuals contribute positively to their communities and society at large.
What is the importance of early childhood education? Early childhood education is vital for developing social, cognitive, and emotional skills. It lays the foundation for lifelong learning and personal development.
Why is it essential to address educational disparities? Addressing educational disparities is crucial for ensuring that all individuals have equal opportunities to succeed. Reducing disparities helps break the cycle of poverty and promotes social and economic equity.
How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected education? The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant learning losses, widened educational inequalities, and disrupted traditional learning environments. It has highlighted the need for resilient and adaptable education systems.
What are the benefits of higher education? Higher education leads to better career prospects, higher income, personal growth, and the development of specialized skills and knowledge. It also contributes to societal advancements through research and innovation.
What role does technology play in modern education? Technology enhances learning by providing access to vast resources, enabling remote education, and facilitating personalized learning experiences. It helps bridge educational gaps and prepares students for a digital world.
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Baron, J., Tavares, C. M., & Zuñiga, J. C. (2018, December). Adaptive Technology to Help Improve Math Learning in the Dominican Republic. World Bank Blogs. https://blogs.worldbank.org/education/adaptive-technology-help-improve-math-learning-dominican-republic
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Donnelly, R. (2021, April 2). The Impact of COVID-19 on Education - Recommendations and Opportunities for Ukraine. World Bank Group. https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/opinion/2021/04/02/the-impact-of-covid-19-on-education-recommendations-and-opportunities-for-ukraine
Global Education Coalition explores the digital learning turn in Africa. (2021, May 26). UNESCO. https://en.unesco.org/news/global-education-coalition-explores-digital-learning-turn-africa
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Editorial: Educational Research and Why It’s Important
Published: 23 October 2017
Volume 52 , pages 207–210, ( 2017 )
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The New Zealand Journal of Educational Research (NZJES) is aptly named, because the distinction between ‘education’ research and ‘educational’ research is critical. As Lingard ( 2013 ) has argued, “When we use the descriptor ‘educational’ attached to research, we are arguing that such research has educational or educative purposes, that is, such research is progressive in the sense of seeking and desiring to improve both education policy and professional practice in education” (p. 115). For contributors and readers of this journal, the importance of demonstrating the potential to impact on policy and practice is important. Researchers working in education typically are also interested in addressing equity issues as political and social agendas, and seeking to explore positive change for others through educational research .
Educational research can challenge and change educational policy and practice, as evidenced in the articles within this issue. Equity and justice of educational experience are important to these researchers. This is consistent with previous NZJES issues, where authors have sought to enable the voice of participants to be heard, to foreground culture, and question the status quo. In other words, for these authors, being educational through research is a critical part of having impact.
Of the eight articles in this issue, five present evidence about educational experiences, issues and outcomes for Māori, Pacific Island and Indigenous students. The approaches taken to address these questions are diverse, ranging from examining the very way that ethnicity is defined and used in statistical analysis to exploring ‘the spiritual footsteps of teaching and learning’.
In the first article, Boereboom critiques the way that ethnicity is defined and then used for the purposes of analysing and reporting national educational outcomes and assessment data. Although New Zealand has moved to a view of ethnicity as a fluid social construct which allows for self-identification and the claiming of multiple ethnic identities, the rapid increase in ethnic diversity and the need for narrow and precise definitions of variables for the purposes of statistical analysis are creating a range of issues that to date have been largely ignored. Boereboom explores these issues by comparing an analysis of NCEA Level 1 results using (1) the status quo of rank ordering to assign a single ethnic identity, and (2) a weighted ethnicity proportional representation approach. Boereboom’s analysis and arguments show that there is the potential for current practices to mask and under report trends and thereby to strengthen a deficit approach to educational planning. He compellingly argues that there are strong ethical grounds and concerns related to validity to support a call to ‘re-examine the practice of ethnic priority ranking and explore alternative more culturally valid and inclusive approaches’.
Although positive outcomes have been achieved in Māori medium education over the past 40 years there are still very real concerns about the revitalisation of te reo Māori. Research is needed to support the revitalisation process. Hill’s research focuses on level 2 Māori medium programmes, that is programmes with 51–80% Maori language instruction. He explores the perceptions of students and their parents about the contribution these programmes make to the education of students. In Maged, Rosales-Anderson and Manuel’s article, they explore teaching and learning relationships that students attending a Wānanga (a Māori indigenous tertiary education organisation) identified as having had a positive impact on their learning and engagement in the past or currently. In particular Maged et al. are interested in exploring the spiritual element of the connection between the kaiako (teachers) and the tauira (students). They identify a range of ways in which tauira had felt a deep sense of connection through the wairua (spirit) within the classroom to the people, place and space around them and which had impacted positively on their learning and their well-being, both within and beyond the classroom.
Olsen and Andreassen explore how indigenous issues are articulated and instantiated in the Early Childhood Education Curricula (the official written documents) of Norway and Aotearoa/New Zealand. They argue that the purpose of comparing how indigenous issues are conceptualised within the respective curricula is ‘to bring something new to the analysis of one case by putting it next to another’. Their analysis focuses on the main tendencies of the indigenous issues in each country. While they conclude, ‘the curricula are expressions of indigenous knowledge and status being privileged’ they caution that if the curricular claims and statements are not enacted, then it would not be a surprise to find the indigenous silenced.
Towner, Taumoepeau, Lal and Pranish focus on the situation of Pasifika learners in the tertiary context. They conducted a case study, which evaluated the outcomes of current practices and support for Pasifika students at a New Zealand private tertiary education (PTE) provider in order to assess what practices and support systems are beneficial for Pasifika learners. Their findings emphasise the importance of a variety of support systems, many of which increased a sense of community connectedness for students, and a culturally sensitive environment for students’ academic success.
Van Rij explores how the New Zealand’s School Journal has reflected both shifting perceptions of childhood as well as acting as a mirror on the educational ideologies of the times, from the time it started (1907) through to 1918. Later, she introduces another period (1919–1938) where she identifies how the journal ‘led to the liberal spirited, revised syllabus of instruction in 1935. This in turn paved the way for the curriculum reforms from 1939 into the 1950s’. In this article van Rij traverses the complex terrain of the journal by presenting the historical and cultural analysis of the type of prose, subject content and inherent political messages within the journal.
In McPhail and Laurie’s article, they argue that social science research methods teaching needs to include the idea of realism. Given that interpretivism is commonly used in educational social science research, the authors were both faced with a dilemma when conducting their respective PhDs, looking for a methodological approach that could enable them ‘to explain the social meaning of events and provide a means of exploring causes and processes obscured within the phenomenon being investigated’. Using the case study of the second author who completed her PhD using realism, this article explores what this methodological approach has to offer, and how a realist rather than an interpretivist orientation can offer a different analysis of data.
Oldham’s article foregrounds the increase of non-state policy actors in public education systems. He explores the phenomenon of ‘enterprise education’ by using governance theory and methods to argue that this is replacing curriculum governance.
Finally Gerrard’s commentary, explores the impact of the Productivity Commission’s Report on New Models of Tertiary Education (2017) and how this may impact on the changing nature of the purpose and value of tertiary education.
This issue of the New Zealand Journal of Educational Studies is also our last one as Editors. Our tenure has included transitioning the journal from a print-based journal to its first online issue with Springer (Volume 50), and marking its 50th anniversary celebrations. The journal continues to be foundational to the New Zealand Association for Research in Education (NZARE) learned society, and the principal vehicle for researchers and educators to share and disseminate their published research.
Since 2014, we have edited 8 issues, which have included 65 published articles and 5 commentaries written by 112 authors (76% female; 24% male). We extend our thanks to the 138 reviewers who gave their time, expertise and collegial support to blind peer review the work. In addition, we have published 39 book reviews and we thank our Book Editor, Dr. Stephanie Doyle, Victoria University of Wellington, who liaised so successfully with the book reviewers that we were never without a well-articulated review of the latest work coming out. During this period there have been two special issues: Student Voice 49(2), and Equity and Diversity 51(2). Both these special issues included national and international contributions, with one collection arguing the importance of including student voice in learning, policy and practice, and acting on these views; and the other on ensuring equity through education enables, celebrates and includes all learners.
Across this period the contributing authors have collectively demonstrated a broad interest in educational research, policy and practice, which fully justifies the journal’s claim to be concerned with ‘educational studies’. The many contributors to this journal have documented change and progress, issues and tensions, and promises and visions. Given this depth and breadth of educational research, and the diversity of researcher-authors, it is not surprising that their own values and ideologies are embedded in the work. As Lingard ( 2013 ) reminds us, evidence-based policy is not all about research evidence. It includes in the mix values, ideology and professional knowledge of the researchers who conduct the research, and the practitioners and policy makers who read and interpret that research.
The areas of scholarship covered over this period (Volumes 49–52) are diverse, inclusive and representative of multi-voiced, cultural and social imperatives. These include Kura Kaupapa Māori research, cross-cultural practice, the achievement gap, tertiary education supervision and partnership practices, all education sectors, the history of education in New Zealand, student voice, education policy, equity in education, curriculum design, teacher initial education and professional development and the nature of education in the twenty-first century.
This research labour has originated from within 29 institutions, including 21 universities, 1 wānanga, 2 polytechnics, independent researchers (2), and other tertiary, research or independent providers such as the New Zealand Council for Educational Research (NZCER), Kelston Deaf Education Centre, and SPELD. The research published within NZJES has demonstrated it is confidently located within the Aotearoa/New Zealand context. Locally, we have had contributors from University of Auckland, Auckland University of Technology (AUT), University of Waikato, Waikato Institute of Technology (Win Tec), Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi, Massey University, Victoria University of Wellington, Whitireia Polytechnic, University of Canterbury, and University of Otago. There has also been an international presence connected closely to the New Zealand research community, including contributions from researchers based in higher education organisations from the UK, Ireland, Sweden, Norway, USA, UAE, and Australia. The institutions represented include University of Dublin, University of Manchester, University of Uppsala, University of Tromsø, University of Melbourne, University of New South Wales, Monash University, Australian Catholic University, University of New England, University of Denver, Bryn Mawr College, North Carolina State University, University of Florida, Southern Cross University and Zayed University.
As co-editors, we are proud to have been part of this continuing educational research journey. We wish the incoming editors the rich experience we have been privileged to have. We thank the Editorial Board for the stimulating collegial discussions at our meetings and the NZARE Council for their ongoing support. A warm thank you to all contributors, reviewers, NZARE members, and staff at Springer for enabling this journal to take the next step in its trajectory of contributing to the betterment of education in Aotearoa/New Zealand.
Lingard, B. (2013). The impact of research on education policy in an era of evidence-based policy. Critical Studies in Education, 54 (2), 113–131.
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Bourke, R., Loveridge, J. Editorial: Educational Research and Why It’s Important. NZ J Educ Stud 52 , 207–210 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40841-017-0093-0
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Importance of Research in Education
8 Pages Posted: 19 Nov 2020
Mayurakshi Basu
National Council of Educational Research and Training
Date Written: October 2, 2020
Research is a scientific and systematic investigation or inquiry especially through search for new facts in any branch of knowledge. On the other hand education is regarded as the aggregate of all the processes by which a person develops abilities, attitudes and other forms of behavior of practical values in the society in which she or he lives. The core purpose of this paper is to understand the importance of research in education. Research is widely regarded as providing benefits to individuals and to local, regional, national, and international community’s involved in the education system. The thrust areas of this paper are characteristics, purposes of research in education, steps involved in research, importance of research in education and lastly challenges of research in present context.
Keywords: Research Importance Challenges Education
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How educational research could play a greater role in K-12 school improvement
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For the past 20 years, I have taught research methods in education to students here in the U.S. and in other countries. While the purpose of the course is to show students how to do effective research, the ultimate goal of the research is to get better academic results for the nation’s K-12 students and schools.
Vast resources are already being spent on this goal. Between 2019 and 2022, the Institute of Educational Sciences , the research and evaluation arm of the U.S. Education Department, distributed US$473 million in 255 grants to improve educational outcomes.
In 2021, colleges and universities spent approximately $1.6 billion on educational research .
The research is not hard to find. The Educational Research Information Center, a federally run repository, houses 1.6 million educational research sources in over 1,000 scholarly journals.
And there are plenty of opportunities for educational researchers to network and collaborate. Each year, for instance, more than 15,000 educators and researchers gather to present or discuss educational research findings at the annual meeting of the American Educational Research Association .
Yet, for all the time, money and effort that have been spent on producing research in the field of education, the nation seems to have little to show for it in terms of improvements in academic achievement.
Growing gaps
Even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, test scores were beginning to decline. Results from the 2019 National Assessment of Educational Progress, , or NAEP – the most representative assessment of what elementary and middle school students know across specific subjects – show a widening gap between the highest and lowest achievement levels on the NAEP for fourth grade mathematics and eighth grade reading between 2017-19. During the same period, NAEP outcomes show stagnated growth in reading achievement among fourth graders. By eighth grade, there is a greater gap in reading achievement between the highest- and lowest-achieving students.
Some education experts have even suggested that the chances for progress get dimmer for students as they get older. For instance, in a 2019-2020 report to Congress , Mark Schneider, the Institute of Educational Sciences director, wrote: “for science and math, the longer students stay in school, the more likely they are to fail to meet even NAEP’s basic performance level.”
Scores on the International Assessment of Adult Competencies , a measure of literacy, numeracy and problem-solving skills, suggest a similar pattern of achievement. Achievement levels on the assessment show a slight decline in literacy and numeracy between 2012-14 and 2017. Fewer Americans are scoring at the highest levels of proficiency in literacy and numeracy.
As an educational researcher who focuses on academic outcomes for low-income students and students of color , I believe these troubling results raise serious questions about whether educational research is being put to use.
Are school leaders and policymakers actually reading any of the vast amount of educational research that exists? Or does it go largely unnoticed in voluminous virtual vaults? What, if anything, can be done to make sure that educational research findings and recommendations are actually being tried?
Here are four things I believe can be done in order to make sure that educational research is actually being applied.
1. Build better relationships with school leaders
Educational researchers can reach out to school leaders before doing their research in order to design research based on the needs of schools and schoolchildren. If school leaders can see how educational research can specifically benefit their school community, they may be more likely to implement findings and recommendations from the research.
2. Make policy and practice part of the research process
By implementing new policies and practices based on research findings, researchers can work with school leaders to do further research to see if the new policies and practices actually work.
For example, The Investing in Innovation (i3) Fund was established by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to fund the implementation and evaluation of education interventions with a record of improving student achievement. Through the fund, $679 million was distributed through 67 grants – and 12 of those 67 funded projects improved student outcomes. The key to success? Having a “tight implementation” plan, which was shown to produce at least one positive student outcome.
3. Rethink how research impact is measured
As part of the national rankings for colleges of education – that is, the schools that prepare schoolteachers for their careers – engagement with public schools could be made a factor in the rankings. The rankings could also include measurable educational impact.
4. Rethink and redefine how research is distributed
Evidence-based instruction can improve student outcomes . However, public school teachers often can’t afford to access the evidence or the time to make sense of it. Research findings written in everyday language could be distributed at conferences frequented by public school teachers and in the periodicals that they read.
If research findings are to make a difference, I believe there has to be a stronger focus on using research to bring about real-world change in public schools.
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Home / News / Why Is Education Important? The Power Of An Educated Society
Why Is Education Important? The Power Of An Educated Society
Looking for an answer to the question of why is education important? We address this query with a focus on how education can transform society through the way we interact with our environment.
Whether you are a student, a parent, or someone who values educational attainment, you may be wondering how education can provide quality life to a society beyond the obvious answer of acquiring knowledge and economic growth. Continue reading as we discuss the importance of education not just for individuals but for society as a whole.
Harness the power of education to build a more sustainable modern society with a degree from Unity Environmental University .
How Education Is Power: The Importance Of Education In Society
Why is education so important? Nelson Mandela famously said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” An educated society is better equipped to tackle the challenges that face modern America, including:
Climate change
Social justice
Economic inequality
Education is not just about learning to read and do math operations. Of course, gaining knowledge and practical skills is part of it, but education is also about values and critical thinking. It’s about finding our place in society in a meaningful way.
Environmental Stewardship
A study from 2022 found that people who belong to an environmental stewardship organization, such as the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, are likely to have a higher education level than those who do not. This suggests that quality education can foster a sense of responsibility towards the environment.
With the effects of climate change becoming increasingly alarming, this particular importance of education is vital to the health, safety, and longevity of our society. Higher learning institutions can further encourage environmental stewardship by adopting a framework of sustainability science .
The Economic Benefits Of Education
Higher education can lead to better job opportunities and higher income. On average, a person with a bachelor’s degree will make $765,000 more in their lifetime than someone with no degree. Even with the rising costs of tuition, investment in higher education pays off in the long run. In 2020, the return on investment (ROI) for a college degree was estimated to be 13.5% to 35.9% .
Green jobs like environmental science technicians and solar panel installers have high demand projections for the next decade. Therefore, degrees that will prepare you for one of these careers will likely yield a high ROI. And, many of these jobs only require an associate’s degree or certificate , which means lower overall education costs.
Unity helps students maximize their ROI with real-world experience in the field as an integral part of every degree program.
10 Reasons Why School Is Important
Education is not just an individual pursuit but also a societal one. In compiling these reasons, we focused on the question, “How does education benefit society?” Overall, higher education has the power to transform:
Individuals’ sense of self
Interpersonal relationships
Social communities
Professional communities
Cognitive Development
Neuroscience research has proven that the brain is a muscle that can retain its neuroplasticity throughout life. However, like other muscles, it must receive continual exercise to remain strong. Higher education allows people of any age to improve their higher-level cognitive abilities like problem-solving and decision-making. This can make many parts of life feel more manageable and help society run smoothly.
Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is key to workplace success. Studies show that people with emotional intelligence exhibit more:
Self-awareness
Willingness to try new things
Innovative thinking
Active listening
Collaboration skills
Problem-solving abilities
By attending higher education institutions that value these soft skills, students can improve their emotional intelligence as part of their career development in college.
Technological Literacy
Many careers in today’s job market use advanced technology. To prepare for these jobs, young people likely won’t have access to these technologies to practice on their own. That’s part of why so many STEM career paths require degrees. It’s essential to gain technical knowledge and skills through a certified program to safely use certain technologies. And, educated scientists are more likely to make new technological discoveries .
Cultural Awareness
Education exposes individuals to different cultures and perspectives. Being around people who are different has the powerful ability to foster acceptance. Acceptance benefits society as a whole. It increases innovation and empathy.
College also gives students an opportunity to practice feeling comfortable in situations where there are people of different races, genders, sexualities, and abilities. Students can gain an understanding of how to act respectfully among different types of people, which is an important skill for the workplace. This will only become more vital as our world continues to become more globalized.
Ethical and Moral Development
Another reason why school is important is that it promotes ethical and moral development. Many schools require students to take an ethics course in their general education curriculum. However, schools can also encourage character development throughout their programs by using effective pedagogical strategies including:
Class debates and discussions
Historical case studies
Group projects
Unity’s distance learning programs include an ethical decision-making class in our core curriculum.
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Communication Skills
Effective written and verbal communication skills are key for personal and professional success. Higher education programs usually include at least one communication course in their general education requirements. Often the focus in these classes is on writing skills, but students can also use college as an opportunity to hone their presentation and public speaking skills. Courses such as Multimedia Communication for Environmental Professionals provide many opportunities for this.
Civic Engagement
According to a Gallup survey , people with higher education degrees are:
More likely to participate in civic activities such as voting and volunteering
Less likely to commit crimes
More likely to get involved in their local communities
All these individual acts add up to make a big difference in society. An educated electorate is less likely to be swayed by unethical politicians and, instead, make choices that benefit themselves and their community. Because they are more involved, they are also more likely to hold elected officials accountable.
Financial Stability
The right degree can significantly expand your career opportunities and improve your long-term earning potential. Not all degrees provide the same level of financial stability, so it’s important to research expected salary offers after graduation and job demand outlook predictions for your desired field. Consider the return on investment for a degree from an affordable private school such as Unity Environmental University .
Environmental Awareness
We have already discussed why education is important for environmental stewardship. Education can also lead to better environmental practices in the business world. By building empathy through character education and ethics courses, institutions can train future business leaders to emphasize human rights and sustainability over profits. All types and sizes of businesses can incorporate sustainable practices, but awareness of the issues and solutions is the first step.
Lifelong Learning
The reasons why education is important discussed so far focus on institutional education. However, education can happen anywhere. Attending a university that values all kinds of learning will set students up with the foundation to become lifelong learners. Research demonstrates that lifelong learners tend to be healthier and more fulfilled throughout their lives. When societies emphasize the importance of education, they can boost their overall prosperity.
The Role Of Unity Environmental University In Society
Environmentally conscious education is extremely valuable and should be accessible to all. Unity Environmental University offers tuition prices that are comparable to public universities, and financial aid is available to those who qualify. Courses last five weeks so that students can focus on only one class at a time. This ensures all learners are set up for academic success.
Unity believes in supporting students holistically to maximize the power of education. This includes mental health services, experiential learning opportunities , and job placement assistance . Students in our hybrid programs can take classes at several field stations throughout Maine and enjoy the beautiful nature surrounding the campus for outdoor recreation.
Sustainable Initiatives
Some highlights from Unity Environmental University’s many sustainable initiatives:
All programs include at least one sustainability learning outcome
All research courses are focused on sustainability research
Reduced building energy use by 25% across campus
100% of food waste is recycled into energy
Campus features a net-zero LEED Platinum-certified classroom/office building
While many schools value sustainability, Unity stands out because everything we do is about sustainability. We also recognize our responsibility to model how a sustainable business can operate in a manner that’s fiscally viable and socially responsible.
Make An Impact At Unity Environmental University
While the phrase ‘education is power’ may sound cliche, it is also resoundingly true. Higher education has the power to transform individuals and societies. Unity Environmental University understands its power to make a positive impact on the world. That’s why we were the first university to divest from fossil fuels.
This year, we celebrated our largest incoming class ever , showing that students want an education system that aligns with their values. In addition to our commitment to sustainability, we offer flexibility to students with start dates all year round for our online degree programs .
The World Bank Group is the largest financier of education in the developing world, working in 94 countries and committed to helping them reach SDG4: access to inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all by 2030.
Education is a human right, a powerful driver of development, and one of the strongest instruments for reducing poverty and improving health, gender equality, peace, and stability. It delivers large, consistent returns in terms of income, and is the most important factor to ensure equity and inclusion.
For individuals, education promotes employment, earnings, health, and poverty reduction. Globally, there is a 9% increase in hourly earnings for every extra year of schooling . For societies, it drives long-term economic growth, spurs innovation, strengthens institutions, and fosters social cohesion. Education is further a powerful catalyst to climate action through widespread behavior change and skilling for green transitions.
Developing countries have made tremendous progress in getting children into the classroom and more children worldwide are now in school. But learning is not guaranteed, as the 2018 World Development Report (WDR) stressed.
Making smart and effective investments in people’s education is critical for developing the human capital that will end extreme poverty. At the core of this strategy is the need to tackle the learning crisis, put an end to Learning Poverty , and help youth acquire the advanced cognitive, socioemotional, technical and digital skills they need to succeed in today’s world.
In low- and middle-income countries, the share of children living in Learning Poverty (that is, the proportion of 10-year-old children that are unable to read and understand a short age-appropriate text) increased from 57% before the pandemic to an estimated 70% in 2022.
However, learning is in crisis. More than 70 million more people were pushed into poverty during the COVID pandemic, a billion children lost a year of school , and three years later the learning losses suffered have not been recouped . If a child cannot read with comprehension by age 10, they are unlikely to become fluent readers. They will fail to thrive later in school and will be unable to power their careers and economies once they leave school.
The effects of the pandemic are expected to be long-lasting. Analysis has already revealed deep losses, with international reading scores declining from 2016 to 2021 by more than a year of schooling. These losses may translate to a 0.68 percentage point in global GDP growth. The staggering effects of school closures reach beyond learning. This generation of children could lose a combined total of US$21 trillion in lifetime earnings in present value or the equivalent of 17% of today’s global GDP – a sharp rise from the 2021 estimate of a US$17 trillion loss.
Action is urgently needed now – business as usual will not suffice to heal the scars of the pandemic and will not accelerate progress enough to meet the ambitions of SDG 4. We are urging governments to implement ambitious and aggressive Learning Acceleration Programs to get children back to school, recover lost learning, and advance progress by building better, more equitable and resilient education systems.
Last Updated: Mar 25, 2024
The World Bank’s global education strategy is centered on ensuring learning happens – for everyone, everywhere. Our vision is to ensure that everyone can achieve her or his full potential with access to a quality education and lifelong learning. To reach this, we are helping countries build foundational skills like literacy, numeracy, and socioemotional skills – the building blocks for all other learning. From early childhood to tertiary education and beyond – we help children and youth acquire the skills they need to thrive in school, the labor market and throughout their lives.
Investing in the world’s most precious resource – people – is paramount to ending poverty on a livable planet. Our experience across more than 100 countries bears out this robust connection between human capital, quality of life, and economic growth: when countries strategically invest in people and the systems designed to protect and build human capital at scale, they unlock the wealth of nations and the potential of everyone.
Building on this, the World Bank supports resilient, equitable, and inclusive education systems that ensure learning happens for everyone. We do this by generating and disseminating evidence, ensuring alignment with policymaking processes, and bridging the gap between research and practice.
The World Bank is the largest source of external financing for education in developing countries, with a portfolio of about $26 billion in 94 countries including IBRD, IDA and Recipient-Executed Trust Funds. IDA operations comprise 62% of the education portfolio.
The investment in FCV settings has increased dramatically and now accounts for 26% of our portfolio.
World Bank projects reach at least 425 million students -one-third of students in low- and middle-income countries.
The World Bank’s Approach to Education
Five interrelated pillars of a well-functioning education system underpin the World Bank’s education policy approach:
Learners are prepared and motivated to learn;
Teachers are prepared, skilled, and motivated to facilitate learning and skills acquisition;
Learning resources (including education technology) are available, relevant, and used to improve teaching and learning;
Schools are safe and inclusive; and
Education Systems are well-managed, with good implementation capacity and adequate financing.
The Bank is already helping governments design and implement cost-effective programs and tools to build these pillars.
Our Principles:
We pursue systemic reform supported by political commitment to learning for all children.
We focus on equity and inclusion through a progressive path toward achieving universal access to quality education, including children and young adults in fragile or conflict affected areas , those in marginalized and rural communities, girls and women , displaced populations, students with disabilities , and other vulnerable groups.
We focus on results and use evidence to keep improving policy by using metrics to guide improvements.
We want to ensure financial commitment commensurate with what is needed to provide basic services to all.
We invest wisely in technology so that education systems embrace and learn to harness technology to support their learning objectives.
Laying the groundwork for the future
Country challenges vary, but there is a menu of options to build forward better, more resilient, and equitable education systems.
Countries are facing an education crisis that requires a two-pronged approach: first, supporting actions to recover lost time through remedial and accelerated learning; and, second, building on these investments for a more equitable, resilient, and effective system.
Recovering from the learning crisis must be a political priority, backed with adequate financing and the resolve to implement needed reforms. Domestic financing for education over the last two years has not kept pace with the need to recover and accelerate learning. Across low- and lower-middle-income countries, the average share of education in government budgets fell during the pandemic , and in 2022 it remained below 2019 levels.
The best chance for a better future is to invest in education and make sure each dollar is put toward improving learning. In a time of fiscal pressure, protecting spending that yields long-run gains – like spending on education – will maximize impact. We still need more and better funding for education. Closing the learning gap will require increasing the level, efficiency, and equity of education spending—spending smarter is an imperative.
Education technology can be a powerful tool to implement these actions by supporting teachers, children, principals, and parents; expanding accessible digital learning platforms, including radio/ TV / Online learning resources; and using data to identify and help at-risk children, personalize learning, and improve service delivery.
Looking ahead
We must seize this opportunity to reimagine education in bold ways. Together, we can build forward better more equitable, effective, and resilient education systems for the world’s children and youth.
Accelerating Improvements
Supporting countries in establishing time-bound learning targets and a focused education investment plan, outlining actions and investments geared to achieve these goals.
Launched in 2020, the Accelerator Program works with a set of countries to channel investments in education and to learn from each other. The program coordinates efforts across partners to ensure that the countries in the program show improvements in foundational skills at scale over the next three to five years. These investment plans build on the collective work of multiple partners, and leverage the latest evidence on what works, and how best to plan for implementation. Countries such as Brazil (the state of Ceará) and Kenya have achieved dramatic reductions in learning poverty over the past decade at scale, providing useful lessons, even as they seek to build on their successes and address remaining and new challenges.
Universalizing Foundational Literacy
Readying children for the future by supporting acquisition of foundational skills – which are the gateway to other skills and subjects.
The Literacy Policy Package (LPP) consists of interventions focused specifically on promoting acquisition of reading proficiency in primary school. These include assuring political and technical commitment to making all children literate; ensuring effective literacy instruction by supporting teachers; providing quality, age-appropriate books; teaching children first in the language they speak and understand best; and fostering children’s oral language abilities and love of books and reading.
Advancing skills through TVET and Tertiary
Ensuring that individuals have access to quality education and training opportunities and supporting links to employment.
Tertiary education and skills systems are a driver of major development agendas, including human capital, climate change, youth and women’s empowerment, and jobs and economic transformation. A comprehensive skill set to succeed in the 21st century labor market consists of foundational and higher order skills, socio-emotional skills, specialized skills, and digital skills. Yet most countries continue to struggle in delivering on the promise of skills development.
The World Bank is supporting countries through efforts that address key challenges including improving access and completion, adaptability, quality, relevance, and efficiency of skills development programs. Our approach is via multiple channels including projects, global goods, as well as the Tertiary Education and Skills Program . Our recent reports including Building Better Formal TVET Systems and STEERing Tertiary Education provide a way forward for how to improve these critical systems.
Addressing Climate Change
Mainstreaming climate education and investing in green skills, research and innovation, and green infrastructure to spur climate action and foster better preparedness and resilience to climate shocks.
Our approach recognizes that education is critical for achieving effective, sustained climate action. At the same time, climate change is adversely impacting education outcomes. Investments in education can play a huge role in building climate resilience and advancing climate mitigation and adaptation. Climate change education gives young people greater awareness of climate risks and more access to tools and solutions for addressing these risks and managing related shocks. Technical and vocational education and training can also accelerate a green economic transformation by fostering green skills and innovation. Greening education infrastructure can help mitigate the impact of heat, pollution, and extreme weather on learning, while helping address climate change.
Examples of this work are projects in Nigeria (life skills training for adolescent girls), Vietnam (fostering relevant scientific research) , and Bangladesh (constructing and retrofitting schools to serve as cyclone shelters).
Strengthening Measurement Systems
Enabling countries to gather and evaluate information on learning and its drivers more efficiently and effectively.
The World Bank supports initiatives to help countries effectively build and strengthen their measurement systems to facilitate evidence-based decision-making. Examples of this work include:
(1) The Global Education Policy Dashboard (GEPD) : This tool offers a strong basis for identifying priorities for investment and policy reforms that are suited to each country context by focusing on the three dimensions of practices, policies, and politics.
Highlights gaps between what the evidence suggests is effective in promoting learning and what is happening in practice in each system; and
Allows governments to track progress as they act to close the gaps.
The GEPD has been implemented in 13 education systems already – Peru, Rwanda, Jordan, Ethiopia, Madagascar, Mozambique, Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sierra Leone, Niger, Gabon, Jordan and Chad – with more expected by the end of 2024.
(2) Learning Assessment Platform (LeAP) : LeAP is a one-stop shop for knowledge, capacity-building tools, support for policy dialogue, and technical staff expertise to support student achievement measurement and national assessments for better learning.
Supporting Successful Teachers
Helping systems develop the right selection, incentives, and support to the professional development of teachers.
Currently, the World Bank Education Global Practice has over 160 active projects supporting over 18 million teachers worldwide, about a third of the teacher population in low- and middle-income countries. In 12 countries alone, these projects cover 16 million teachers, including all primary school teachers in Ethiopia and Turkey, and over 80% in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Vietnam.
A World Bank-developed classroom observation tool, Teach, was designed to capture the quality of teaching in low- and middle-income countries. It is now 3.6 million students.
While Teach helps identify patterns in teacher performance, Coach leverages these insights to support teachers to improve their teaching practice through hands-on in-service teacher professional development (TPD).
Our recent report on Making Teacher Policy Work proposes a practical framework to uncover the black box of effective teacher policy and discusses the factors that enable their scalability and sustainability.
Supporting Education Finance Systems
Strengthening country financing systems to mobilize resources for education and make better use of their investments in education.
Our approach is to bring together multi-sectoral expertise to engage with ministries of education and finance and other stakeholders to develop and implement effective and efficient public financial management systems; build capacity to monitor and evaluate education spending, identify financing bottlenecks, and develop interventions to strengthen financing systems; build the evidence base on global spending patterns and the magnitude and causes of spending inefficiencies; and develop diagnostic tools as public goods to support country efforts.
Working in Fragile, Conflict, and Violent (FCV) Contexts
The massive and growing global challenge of having so many children living in conflict and violent situations requires a response at the same scale and scope. Our education engagement in the Fragility, Conflict and Violence (FCV) context, which stands at US$5.35 billion, has grown rapidly in recent years, reflecting the ever-increasing importance of the FCV agenda in education. Indeed, these projects now account for more than 25% of the World Bank education portfolio.
Education is crucial to minimizing the effects of fragility and displacement on the welfare of youth and children in the short-term and preventing the emergence of violent conflict in the long-term.
Support to Countries Throughout the Education Cycle
Our support to countries covers the entire learning cycle, to help shape resilient, equitable, and inclusive education systems that ensure learning happens for everyone.
The ongoing Supporting Egypt Education Reform project , 2018-2025, supports transformational reforms of the Egyptian education system, by improving teaching and learning conditions in public schools. The World Bank has invested $500 million in the project focused on increasing access to quality kindergarten, enhancing the capacity of teachers and education leaders, developing a reliable student assessment system, and introducing the use of modern technology for teaching and learning. Specifically, the share of Egyptian 10-year-old students, who could read and comprehend at the global minimum proficiency level, increased to 45 percent in 2021.
In Nigeria , the $75 million Edo Basic Education Sector and Skills Transformation (EdoBESST) project, running from 2020-2024, is focused on improving teaching and learning in basic education. Under the project, which covers 97 percent of schools in the state, there is a strong focus on incorporating digital technologies for teachers. They were equipped with handheld tablets with structured lesson plans for their classes. Their coaches use classroom observation tools to provide individualized feedback. Teacher absence has reduced drastically because of the initiative. Over 16,000 teachers were trained through the project, and the introduction of technology has also benefited students.
Through the $235 million School Sector Development Program in Nepal (2017-2022), the number of children staying in school until Grade 12 nearly tripled, and the number of out-of-school children fell by almost seven percent. During the pandemic, innovative approaches were needed to continue education. Mobile phone penetration is high in the country. More than four in five households in Nepal have mobile phones. The project supported an educational service that made it possible for children with phones to connect to local radio that broadcast learning programs.
From 2017-2023, the $50 million Strengthening of State Universities in Chile project has made strides to improve quality and equity at state universities. The project helped reduce dropout: the third-year dropout rate fell by almost 10 percent from 2018-2022, keeping more students in school.
The World Bank’s first Program-for-Results financing in education was through a $202 million project in Tanzania , that ran from 2013-2021. The project linked funding to results and aimed to improve education quality. It helped build capacity, and enhanced effectiveness and efficiency in the education sector. Through the project, learning outcomes significantly improved alongside an unprecedented expansion of access to education for children in Tanzania. From 2013-2019, an additional 1.8 million students enrolled in primary schools. In 2019, the average reading speed for Grade 2 students rose to 22.3 words per minute, up from 17.3 in 2017. The project laid the foundation for the ongoing $500 million BOOST project , which supports over 12 million children to enroll early, develop strong foundational skills, and complete a quality education.
The $40 million Cambodia Secondary Education Improvement project , which ran from 2017-2022, focused on strengthening school-based management, upgrading teacher qualifications, and building classrooms in Cambodia, to improve learning outcomes, and reduce student dropout at the secondary school level. The project has directly benefited almost 70,000 students in 100 target schools, and approximately 2,000 teachers and 600 school administrators received training.
The World Bank is co-financing the $152.80 million Yemen Restoring Education and Learning Emergency project , running from 2020-2024, which is implemented through UNICEF, WFP, and Save the Children. It is helping to maintain access to basic education for many students, improve learning conditions in schools, and is working to strengthen overall education sector capacity. In the time of crisis, the project is supporting teacher payments and teacher training, school meals, school infrastructure development, and the distribution of learning materials and school supplies. To date, almost 600,000 students have benefited from these interventions.
The $87 million Providing an Education of Quality in Haiti project supported approximately 380 schools in the Southern region of Haiti from 2016-2023. Despite a highly challenging context of political instability and recurrent natural disasters, the project successfully supported access to education for students. The project provided textbooks, fresh meals, and teacher training support to 70,000 students, 3,000 teachers, and 300 school directors. It gave tuition waivers to 35,000 students in 118 non-public schools. The project also repaired 19 national schools damaged by the 2021 earthquake, which gave 5,500 students safe access to their schools again.
In 2013, just 5% of the poorest households in Uzbekistan had children enrolled in preschools. Thanks to the Improving Pre-Primary and General Secondary Education Project , by July 2019, around 100,000 children will have benefitted from the half-day program in 2,420 rural kindergartens, comprising around 49% of all preschool educational institutions, or over 90% of rural kindergartens in the country.
In addition to working closely with governments in our client countries, the World Bank also works at the global, regional, and local levels with a range of technical partners, including foundations, non-profit organizations, bilaterals, and other multilateral organizations. Some examples of our most recent global partnerships include:
UNICEF, UNESCO, FCDO, USAID, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation: Coalition for Foundational Learning
The World Bank is working closely with UNICEF, UNESCO, FCDO, USAID, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation as the Coalition for Foundational Learning to advocate and provide technical support to ensure foundational learning. The World Bank works with these partners to promote and endorse the Commitment to Action on Foundational Learning , a global network of countries committed to halving the global share of children unable to read and understand a simple text by age 10 by 2030.
Australian Aid, Bernard van Leer Foundation, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Canada, Echida Giving, FCDO, German Cooperation, William & Flora Hewlett Foundation, Conrad Hilton Foundation, LEGO Foundation, Porticus, USAID: Early Learning Partnership
The Early Learning Partnership (ELP) is a multi-donor trust fund, housed at the World Bank. ELP leverages World Bank strengths—a global presence, access to policymakers and strong technical analysis—to improve early learning opportunities and outcomes for young children around the world.
We help World Bank teams and countries get the information they need to make the case to invest in Early Childhood Development (ECD), design effective policies and deliver impactful programs. At the country level, ELP grants provide teams with resources for early seed investments that can generate large financial commitments through World Bank finance and government resources. At the global level, ELP research and special initiatives work to fill knowledge gaps, build capacity and generate public goods.
UNESCO, UNICEF: Learning Data Compact
UNESCO, UNICEF, and the World Bank have joined forces to close the learning data gaps that still exist and that preclude many countries from monitoring the quality of their education systems and assessing if their students are learning. The three organizations have agreed to a Learning Data Compact , a commitment to ensure that all countries, especially low-income countries, have at least one quality measure of learning by 2025, supporting coordinated efforts to strengthen national assessment systems.
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS): Learning Poverty Indicator
Aimed at measuring and urging attention to foundational literacy as a prerequisite to achieve SDG4, this partnership was launched in 2019 to help countries strengthen their learning assessment systems, better monitor what students are learning in internationally comparable ways and improve the breadth and quality of global data on education.
FCDO, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation: EdTech Hub
Supported by the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), in partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the EdTech Hub is aimed at improving the quality of ed-tech investments. The Hub launched a rapid response Helpdesk service to provide just-in-time advisory support to 70 low- and middle-income countries planning education technology and remote learning initiatives.
MasterCard Foundation
Our Tertiary Education and Skills global program, launched with support from the Mastercard Foundation, aims to prepare youth and adults for the future of work and society by improving access to relevant, quality, equitable reskilling and post-secondary education opportunities. It is designed to reframe, reform, and rebuild tertiary education and skills systems for the digital and green transformation.
Bridging the AI divide: Breaking down barriers to ensure women’s leadership and participation in the Fifth Industrial Revolution
Common challenges and tailored solutions: How policymakers are strengthening early learning systems across the world
Compulsory education boosts learning outcomes and climate action
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Publication: Realizing Education's Promise: A World Bank Retrospective – August 2023
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Brochure: Learning Losses - October 2022
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What are the benefits of educational research for teachers.
Cultivating a research-based approach to developing your practice provides evidence to effect change in your teaching, your classroom, your school, and beyond. Rebecca Austin, author of Researching Primary Education and Senior Lecturer at the School of Teacher Education and Development at Canterbury Christchurch University, highlights what the benefits are of research to your practice…
In the context of the debate about what works and why, there is a wide range of benefits to researching your own practice, whether directly feeding into improvement through action research or, more broadly, gaining understanding and knowledge on themes of interest and relevance. This is why research is embedded into initial teacher education. As research becomes embedded in your practice you can gain a range of benefits. Research can:
clarify purposes, processes and priorities when introducing change – for example, to curriculum, pedagogy or assessment
develop your agency, influence, self-efficacy and voice within your own school and more widely within the profession.
Each of these can involve investigation using evidence from your own setting, along with wider research evidence.
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Action Research
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What is Educational Research? + [Types, Scope & Importance]
Education is an integral aspect of every society and in a bid to expand the frontiers of knowledge, educational research must become a priority. Educational research plays a vital role in the overall development of pedagogy, learning programs, and policy formulation.
Educational research is a spectrum that bothers on multiple fields of knowledge and this means that it draws from different disciplines. As a result of this, the findings of this research are multi-dimensional and can be restricted by the characteristics of the research participants and the research environment.
What is Educational Research?
Educational research is a type of systematic investigation that applies empirical methods to solving challenges in education. It adopts rigorous and well-defined scientific processes in order to gather and analyze data for problem-solving and knowledge advancement.
J. W. Best defines educational research as that activity that is directed towards the development of a science of behavior in educational situations. The ultimate aim of such a science is to provide knowledge that will permit the educator to achieve his goals through the most effective methods.
The primary purpose of educational research is to expand the existing body of knowledge by providing solutions to different problems in pedagogy while improving teaching and learning practices. Educational researchers also seek answers to questions bothering on learner motivation, development, and classroom management.
Characteristics of Education Research
While educational research can take numerous forms and approaches, several characteristics define its process and approach. Some of them are listed below:
It sets out to solve a specific problem.
Educational research adopts primary and secondary research methods in its data collection process . This means that in educational research, the investigator relies on first-hand sources of information and secondary data to arrive at a suitable conclusion.
Educational research relies on empirical evidence . This results from its largely scientific approach.
Educational research is objective and accurate because it measures verifiable information.
In educational research, the researcher adopts specific methodologies, detailed procedures, and analysis to arrive at the most objective responses
Educational research findings are useful in the development of principles and theories that provide better insights into pressing issues.
This research approach combines structured, semi-structured, and unstructured questions to gather verifiable data from respondents.
Many educational research findings are documented for peer review before their presentation.
Educational research is interdisciplinary in nature because it draws from different fields and studies complex factual relations.
Types of Educational Research
Educational research can be broadly categorized into 3 which are descriptive research , correlational research , and experimental research . Each of these has distinct and overlapping features.
Descriptive Educational Research
In this type of educational research, the researcher merely seeks to collect data with regards to the status quo or present situation of things. The core of descriptive research lies in defining the state and characteristics of the research subject being understudied.
Because of its emphasis on the “what” of the situation, descriptive research can be termed an observational research method . In descriptive educational research, the researcher makes use of quantitative research methods including surveys and questionnaires to gather the required data.
Typically, descriptive educational research is the first step in solving a specific problem. Here are a few examples of descriptive research:
A reading program to help you understand student literacy levels.
A study of students’ classroom performance.
Research to gather data on students’ interests and preferences.
From these examples, you would notice that the researcher does not need to create a simulation of the natural environment of the research subjects; rather, he or she observes them as they engage in their routines. Also, the researcher is not concerned with creating a causal relationship between the research variables.
Correlational Educational Research
This is a type of educational research that seeks insights into the statistical relationship between two research variables. In correlational research, the researcher studies two variables intending to establish a connection between them.
Correlational research can be positive, negative, or non-existent. Positive correlation occurs when an increase in variable A leads to an increase in variable B, while negative correlation occurs when an increase in variable A results in a decrease in variable B.
When a change in any of the variables does not trigger a succeeding change in the other, then the correlation is non-existent. Also, in correlational educational research, the research does not need to alter the natural environment of the variables; that is, there is no need for external conditioning.
Examples of educational correlational research include:
Research to discover the relationship between students’ behaviors and classroom performance.
A study into the relationship between students’ social skills and their learning behaviors.
Experimental Educational Research
Experimental educational research is a research approach that seeks to establish the causal relationship between two variables in the research environment. It adopts quantitative research methods in order to determine the cause and effect in terms of the research variables being studied.
Experimental educational research typically involves two groups – the control group and the experimental group. The researcher introduces some changes to the experimental group such as a change in environment or a catalyst, while the control group is left in its natural state.
The introduction of these catalysts allows the researcher to determine the causative factor(s) in the experiment. At the core of experimental educational research lies the formulation of a hypothesis and so, the overall research design relies on statistical analysis to approve or disprove this hypothesis.
Examples of Experimental Educational Research
A study to determine the best teaching and learning methods in a school.
A study to understand how extracurricular activities affect the learning process.
Based on functionality, educational research can be classified into fundamental research , applied research , and action research. The primary purpose of fundamental research is to provide insights into the research variables; that is, to gain more knowledge. Fundamental research does not solve any specific problems.
Just as the name suggests, applied research is a research approach that seeks to solve specific problems. Findings from applied research are useful in solving practical challenges in the educational sector such as improving teaching methods, modifying learning curricula, and simplifying pedagogy.
Action research is tailored to solve immediate problems that are specific to a context such as educational challenges in a local primary school. The goal of action research is to proffer solutions that work in this context and to solve general or universal challenges in the educational sector.
Importance of Educational Research
Educational research plays a crucial role in knowledge advancement across different fields of study.
It provides answers to practical educational challenges using scientific methods.
Findings from educational research; especially applied research, are instrumental in policy reformulation.
For the researcher and other parties involved in this research approach, educational research improves learning, knowledge, skills, and understanding.
Educational research improves teaching and learning methods by empowering you with data to help you teach and lead more strategically and effectively.
Educational research helps students apply their knowledge to practical situations.
Educational Research Methods
Surveys/Questionnaires
A survey is a research method that is used to collect data from a predetermined audience about a specific research context. It usually consists of a set of standardized questions that help you to gain insights into the experiences, thoughts, and behaviors of the audience.
Surveys can be administered physically using paper forms, face-to-face conversations, telephone conversations, or online forms. Online forms are easier to administer because they help you to collect accurate data and to also reach a larger sample size. Creating your online survey on data-gathering platforms like Formplus allows you to.also analyze survey respondent’s data easily.
In order to gather accurate data via your survey, you must first identify the research context and the research subjects that would make up your data sample size. Next, you need to choose an online survey tool like Formplus to help you create and administer your survey with little or no hassles.
An interview is a qualitative data collection method that helps you to gather information from respondents by asking questions in a conversation. It is typically a face-to-face conversation with the research subjects in order to gather insights that will prove useful to the specific research context.
Interviews can be structured, semi-structured , or unstructured . A structured interview is a type of interview that follows a premeditated sequence; that is, it makes use of a set of standardized questions to gather information from the research subjects.
An unstructured interview is a type of interview that is fluid; that is, it is non-directive. During a structured interview, the researcher does not make use of a set of predetermined questions rather, he or she spontaneously asks questions to gather relevant data from the respondents.
A semi-structured interview is the mid-point between structured and unstructured interviews. Here, the researcher makes use of a set of standardized questions yet, he or she still makes inquiries outside these premeditated questions as dedicated by the flow of the conversations in the research context.
Data from Interviews can be collected using audio recorders, digital cameras, surveys, and questionnaires.
Observation
Observation is a method of data collection that entails systematically selecting, watching, listening, reading, touching, and recording behaviors and characteristics of living beings, objects, or phenomena. In the classroom, teachers can adopt this method to understand students’ behaviors in different contexts.
Observation can be qualitative or quantitative in approach . In quantitative observation, the researcher aims at collecting statistical information from respondents and in qualitative information, the researcher aims at collecting qualitative data from respondents.
Qualitative observation can further be classified into participant or non-participant observation. In participant observation, the researcher becomes a part of the research environment and interacts with the research subjects to gather info about their behaviors. In non-participant observation, the researcher does not actively take part in the research environment; that is, he or she is a passive observer.
How to Create Surveys and Questionnaires with Formplus
On your dashboard, choose the “create new form” button to access the form builder. You can also choose from the available survey templates and modify them to suit your need.
Save your online survey to access the form customization section. Here, you can change the physical appearance of your form by adding preferred background images and inserting your organization’s logo.
Formplus has a form analytics dashboard that allows you to view insights from your data collection process such as the total number of form views and form submissions. You can also use the reports summary tool to generate custom graphs and charts from your survey data.
Steps in Educational Research
Like other types of research, educational research involves several steps. Following these steps allows the researcher to gather objective information and arrive at valid findings that are useful to the research context.
Define the research problem clearly.
Formulate your hypothesis. A hypothesis is the researcher’s reasonable guess based on the available evidence, which he or she seeks to prove in the course of the research.
Determine the methodology to be adopted. Educational research methods include interviews, surveys, and questionnaires.
Collect data from the research subjects using one or more educational research methods. You can collect research data using Formplus forms.
Analyze and interpret your data to arrive at valid findings. In the Formplus analytics dashboard, you can view important data collection insights and you can also create custom visual reports with the reports summary tool.
Create your research report. A research report details the entire process of the systematic investigation plus the research findings.
Conclusion
Educational research is crucial to the overall advancement of different fields of study and learning, as a whole. Data in educational research can be gathered via surveys and questionnaires, observation methods, or interviews – structured, unstructured, and semi-structured.
You can create a survey/questionnaire for educational research with Formplu s. As a top-tier data tool, Formplus makes it easy for you to create your educational research survey in the drag-and-drop form builder, and share this with survey respondents using one or more of the form sharing options.
Connect to Formplus, Get Started Now - It's Free!
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40+ Reasons Why Research Is Important in Education
Do you ever wonder why research is so essential in education? What impact does it really have on teaching and learning?
These are questions that plague many students and educators alike.
According to experts, here are the reasons why research is important in the field of education.
Joseph Marc Zagerman, Ed.D.
Assistant Professor of Project Management, Harrisburg University of Science and Technology
Wisdom is knowledge rightly applied. Conducting research is all about gaining wisdom. It can be an exciting part of a college student’s educational journey — be it a simple research paper, thesis, or dissertation.
Related: What Is the Difference Between Knowledge and Wisdom?
As we know, there is primary research and secondary research:
Primary research is first-hand research where the primary investigator (PI) or researcher uses a quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methodology approach in gaining original data. The process of conducting primary research is fascinating but beyond the scope of this article.
In contrast, secondary research examines secondhand information by describing or summarizing the work of others. This article focuses on the benefits of conducting secondary research by immersing oneself in the literature.
Research develops students into becoming more self-sufficient
There are many benefits for college students to engage in scholarly research. For example, the research process itself develops students into becoming more self-sufficient.
In other words, students enhance their ability to ferret out information regarding a specific topic with a more functional deep dive into the subject matter under investigation.
The educational journey of conducting research allows students to see the current conversations taking place regarding a specific topic. One can parse out the congruity and incongruity among scholars about a particular topic.
Developing one’s fundamental library skills is a tremendous upside in becoming self-sufficient. And yet another benefit of conducting scholarly research is reviewing other writing styles, which often enhances one’s reading and writing skills.
Conducting an annotated bibliography is often a critical first step in conducting scholarly research. Reviewing, evaluating, and synthesizing information from several sources further develops a student’s critical thinking skills.
Related: 9 Critical Thinking Examples
Furthermore, in becoming immersed in the literature, students can recognize associated gaps , problems , or opportunities for additional research.
From a doctoral perspective, Boote & Beile (2005) underscore the importance of conducting a literature review as the foundation for sound research and acquiring the skills and knowledge in analyzing and synthesizing information.
So, if conducting research is beneficial for college students, why do some college students have problems with the process or believe it doesn’t add value?
First off, conducting research is hard work . It takes time. Not to make a sweeping generalization, but some college students embrace a “fast-food” expectation of academic assignments.
For example, finish a quiz, complete a discussion board, or watch a YouTube video and check it off your academic to-do list right away. In contrast, conducting a literature review takes time. It’s hard work.
It requires discipline, focus, and effective time management strategies.
Yet, good, bad, or indifferent, it remains that the process of conducting research is often perceived as a non-value-added activity for many college students. Why is this so? Is there a better way?
From an educational standpoint, research assignments should not be a “one and done.” Instead, every course should provide opportunities for students to engage in research of some sort.
If a student must complete a thesis or dissertation as part of their degree requirement, the process should begin early enough in the program.
But perhaps the most important note for educators is to align the research process with real-world takeaways . That builds value . That is what wisdom is all about.
Dr. John Clark, PMP
Corporate Faculty (Project Management), Harrisburg University of Science and Technology
Research provides a path to progress and prosperity
The research integrates the known with the unknown. Research becomes the path to progress and prosperity. Extant knowledge, gathered through previous research, serves as the foundation to attaining new knowledge.
The essence of research is a continuum.
Only through research is the attainment of new knowledge possible. New knowledge, formed through new research, is contributed back to the knowledge community. In the absence of research, the continuum of knowledge is severed.
Reminiscent of the continuum of knowledge, the desire and understanding to conduct research must transcend into the next generation. This magnifies the relevance to convey the techniques and the desire to seek new knowledge to the younger generations.
Humbly, it is argued that education possibly serves to facilitate the importance of research. The synergy between research and education perpetuates the continuum of knowledge.
Through education, the younger generations are instilled with the inspiration to address the challenges of tomorrow.
Related: Why Is Education Important in Our Life?
It plants the seeds for scientific inquiry into the next generation
Research, whether qualitative or quantitative , is grounded in scientific methods . Instructing our students in the fundamentals of empirically-based research effectively plants the seeds for scientific inquiry into the next generation.
The application and pursuit of research catalyze critical thinking . Rather than guiding our students to apply pre-existing and rote answers to yesterday’s challenges, research inspires our students to examine phenomena through new and intriguing lenses.
The globalized and highly competitive world of today effectively demands the younger generations to think critically and creatively to respond to the new challenges of the future.
Consequently, through research and education, the younger generations are inspired and prepared to find new knowledge that advances our community. Ultimately, the synergy between research and education benefits society for generations to come.
Professor John Hattie and Kyle Hattie
Authors, “ 10 Steps to Develop Great Learners “
Research serves many purposes
Imagine your doctor or pilot disregarding research and relying on experience, anecdotes, and opinions. Imagine them being proud of not having read a research article since graduation. Imagine them depending on the tips and tricks of colleagues.
Research serves many great purposes, such as:
Keeping up to date with critical findings
Hearing the critiques of current methods of teaching and running schools
Standing on the shoulders of giants to see our world better
Given that so much educational research is now available, reading syntheses of the research, hearing others’ interpretation and implementation of the research, and seeing the research in action helps.
What matters most is the interpretation of the research — your interpretation, the author’s interpretation, and your colleagues’ interpretation. It is finding research that improves our ways of thinking, our interpretations, and our impact on students.
There is also much to be gained from reading about the methods of research, which provide ways for us to question our own impact, our own theories of teaching and learning, and help us critique our practice by standing on the shoulders of others.
Research also helps to know what is exciting, topical, and important.
It enables us to hear other perspectives
Statements without research evidence are but opinions. Research is not only about what is published in journals or books, but what we discover in our own classes and schools, provided we ask, “What evidence would I accept that I am wrong?”
This is the defining question separating research from opinion. As humans, we are great at self-confirmation — there are always students who succeed in our class, we are great at finding evidence we were right, and we can use this evidence to justify our teaching.
But what about those who did not succeed? We can’t be blind about them, and we should not ascribe their lack of improvement to them (poor homes, unmotivated, too far behind) but to us.
We often need to hear other perspectives of the evidence we collect from our classes and hear more convincing explanations and interpretations about what worked best and what did not; who succeeded and who did not; and were the gains sufficient.
When we do this with the aim of improving our impact on our students, then everyone is the winner.
It provides explanations and bigger picture interpretations
Research and evaluation on your class and school can be triangulated with research studies in the literature to provide alternative explanations, to help see the importance (or not) of the context of your school. And we can always write our experiences and add to the research.
For example, we have synthesized many studies of how best parents can influence their children to become great learners. Our fundamental interpretation of the large corpus of studies is that it matters more how parents think when engaged in parenting.
For instance, the expectations, listening and responsive skills, how they react to error and struggle, and whether their feedback was heard, understood, and actionable.
Research is more than summarizing ; it provides explanations and bigger picture interpretations, which we aimed at in our “10 steps for Parents” book.
Dr. Glenn Mitchell, MPH, CPE, FACEP
Vice Provost for Institutional Effectiveness , Harrisburg University of Science and Technology
Research gives us better knowledge workers
There is a tremendous value for our society from student participation in scientific research. At all levels – undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D. —students learn the scientific method that has driven progress since the Enlightenment over 300 years ago.
They learn to observe carefully and organize collected data efficiently.
They know how to test results for whether or not they should be believed or were just a chance finding.
They learn to estimate the strength of the data they collect and see in other scientists’ published work.
With its peer review and wide visibility, the publication process demands that the work be done properly , or it will be exposed as flawed or even falsified.
So students don’t just learn how to do experiments, interviews, or surveys. They learn that the process demands rigor and ethical conduct to obtain valid and reliable results.
Supporting and educating a new generation of science-minded citizens makes our population more likely to support proven facts and take unproven allegations with a grain of salt until they are rigorously evaluated and reviewed.
Thus, educating our students about research and involving them with hands-on opportunities to participate in research projects gives us better knowledge workers to advance technology and produce better citizens.
Chris A. Sweigart, Ph.D.
Board Certified Family Physician | Education Consultant, Limened
Research plays a critical role in education as a guide for effective practices, policies, and procedures in our schools.
Evidence-based practice, which involves educators intentionally engaging in instructional practices and programs with strong evidence for positive outcomes from methodologically sound research, is essential to ensure the greatest probability of achieving desired student outcomes in schools.
It helps educators have greater confidence to help students achieve outcomes
There are extensive options for instructional practices and programs in our schools, many of which are promoted and sold by educational companies. In brief, some of these works benefit students, and others don’t, producing no results or even negatively impacting students.
Educators need ways to filter through the noise to find practices that are most likely to actually produce positive results with students.
When a practice has been identified as evidence-based, that means an array of valid, carefully controlled research studies have been conducted that show significant, positive outcomes from engaging in the practice.
By choosing to engage in these practices, educators can have greater confidence in their ability to help students achieve meaningful outcomes.
There are organizations focused on evaluating the research base for programs and practices to determine whether they are evidence-based.
For example, some websites provide overviews of evidence-based practices in education while my website provides practical guides for teachers on interventions for academic and behavioral challenges with a research rating scale.
Educators can use these resources to sift through the research, which can sometimes be challenging to access and translate, especially for busy teachers.
It supports vulnerable student populations
Schools may be especially concerned about the success of vulnerable student populations, such as students with disabilities , who are at far greater risk than their peers of poor short and long-term outcomes.
In many cases, these students are already behind their peers one or more years academically and possibly facing other challenges.
With these vulnerable populations, it’s imperative that we engage in practices that benefit them and do so faster than typical practice—because these students need to catch up!
That said, every minute and dollar we spend on a practice not supported by research is a gamble on students’ well-being and futures that may only make things worse.
These populations of students need our best in education, which means choosing practices with sound evidence that are most likely to help.
If I were going to a doctor for a serious illness, I would want them to engage in practice guided by the cutting edge of medical science to ensure my most significant chance of becoming healthy again. And I want the same for our students who struggle in school.
Will Shaw PhD, MSc
Sport Scientist and Lecturer | Co-founder, Sport Science Insider
Research creates new knowledge and better ideas
At the foundation of learning is sharing knowledge, ideas, and concepts. However, few concepts are set in stone; instead, they are ever-evolving ideas that hopefully get closer to the truth .
Research is the process that underpins this search for new and better-defined ideas. For this reason, it is crucial to have very close links between research and teaching. The further the gap, the less informed teaching will become.
Research provides answers to complicated problems
Another key concept in education is sharing the reality that most problems are complicated — but these are often the most fun to try to solve. Such as, how does the brain control movement? Or how can we optimize skill development in elite athletes?
Here, research can be used to show how many studies can be pulled together to find answers to these challenging problems. But students should also understand that these answers aren’t perfect and should be challenged.
Again, this process creates a deeper learning experience and students who are better equipped for the world we live in.
Basic understanding of research aids students in making informed decisions
We’re already seeing the worlds of tech and data drive many facets of life in a positive direction — this will no doubt continue. However, a byproduct of this is that data and science are commonly misunderstood, misquoted, or, in the worst cases, deliberately misused to tell a false story.
If students have a basic understanding of research, they can make informed decisions based on reading the source and their own insight.
This doesn’t mean they have to mean they disregard all headlines instead, they can decide to what extent the findings are trustworthy and dig deeper to find meaning.
A recent example is this BBC News story that did an excellent job of reporting a study looking at changes in brain structure as a result of mild COVID. The main finding of a 2% average loss in brain structure after mild COVID sounds alarming and is one of the findings from the study.
However, if students have the ability to scan the full article linked in the BBC article, they could learn that:
The measure that decreased by 2% was a ‘proxy’ (estimate) for tissue damage
Adults show 0.2 – 0.3% loss every year naturally
Some covid patients didn’t show any loss at all, but the average loss between the COVID and control group was 2%
We have no idea currently if these effects last more than a few weeks or months (more research is in progress)
This is an excellent research paper, and it is well-reported, but having the ability to go one step further makes so much more sense of the findings. This ability to understand the basics of research makes the modern world far easier to navigate.
Helen Crabtree
Teacher and Owner, GCSE Masterclass
It enables people to discover different ideas
Research is crucial to education. It enables people to discover different ideas, viewpoints, theories, and facts. From there, they will weigh up the validity of each theory for themselves.
Finding these things out for oneself causes a student to think more deeply and come up with their personal perspectives, hypotheses, and even to question widely held facts. This is crucial for independent thought and personal development.
To distortion and manipulation — a frighteningly Orwellian future awaits us if research skills are lost.
You only need to look at current world events and how freedom of the media and genuine journalistic investigation (or research) is distorting the understanding of the real world in the minds of many people in one of the most powerful countries in the world.
Only those who are able to conduct research and evaluate the independence of facts can genuinely understand the world.
Genuine research opens young people’s eyes to facts and opinions
Furthermore, learning how to conduct genuine research instead of merely a Wikipedia or Google search is a skill in itself, allowing students to search through archives and find material that is not widely known about and doesn’t appear at the top of search engines.
Genuine research will open young people’s eyes to facts and opinions that may otherwise be hidden. This can be demonstrated when we look at social media and its algorithms.
Essentially, if you repeatedly read or “like” pieces with a specific worldview, the algorithm will send you more articles or videos that further back up that view.
This, in turn, creates an echo chamber whereby your own opinion is repeatedly played back to you with no opposing ideas or facts, reinforcing your view in a one-sided way.
Conducting genuine research is the antidote.
Lastly, by conducting research, people discover how to write articles, dissertations, and conduct their own experiments to justify their ideas. A world without genuine, quality research is a world that is open.
Pritha Gopalan, Ph.D.
Director of Research and Learning, Newark Trust for Education
It allows us to understand progress and areas of development
Research is vital in education because it helps us be intentional about how we frame and document our practice. At The Trust , we aim to synthesize standards-based and stakeholder-driven frames to ensure that quality also means equity.
Research gives us a lens to look across time and space and concretely understand our progress and areas for improvement. We are careful to include all voices through representative and network sampling to include multiple perspectives from different sites.
Good research helps us capture variation in practice, document innovation, and share bright spots and persistent challenges with peers for mutual learning and growth.
This is key to our work as educators and a city-based voice employing and seeking to amplify asset-based discourses in education.
Research represents stakeholders’ aspirations and needs
When done in culturally sustaining and equitable ways , research powerfully represents stakeholder experiences, interests, aspirations, and needs. Thus, it is critical to informed philanthropy, advocacy, and the continuous improvement of practice.
Our organization is constantly evolving in our own cultural competence . It embodies this pursuit in our research so that the voices of the educators, families, children, and partners that we work with are harmonized .
This is done to create the “big picture” of where we are and where we need to get together to ensure equitable and quality conditions for learning in Newark.
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Jessica Robinson
Educator | Human Resources and Marketing Manager, SpeakingNerd
Research makes the problem clearer
In the words of Stanley Arnold, “Every problem contains within itself the seeds of its own solution.” These words truly highlight the nature of problems and solutions.
If you understand a problem thoroughly, you eventually approach closer to the solution for you begin to see what makes the problem arise. When the root of the problem is clear, the solution becomes obvious.
For example, if you suffer from headaches frequently, your doctor will get specific tests done to understand the exact problem (which is research). Once the root cause of the headache becomes clear, your doctor will give you suitable medicines to help you heal.
This implies that to reach a solution, it is crucial for us to understand the problem first. Research helps us with that. By making the problem clearer, it helps us pave closer to the solution.
As the main aim of education is to produce talented individuals who can generate innovative solutions to the world’s problems, research is of utmost importance.
Research boosts critical thinking skills
Critical thinking is defined as observing, understanding, analyzing, and interpreting information and arguments to form suitable conclusions.
In today’s world, critical thinking skills are the most valued skills. Companies look for a candidate’s critical thinking skills before hiring him. This is because critical thinking skills promote innovation, and innovation is the need of the hour in almost every sector.
Further, research is one of the most effective ways of developing critical thinking skills. When you conduct research, you eventually learn the art of observing, evaluating, analyzing, interpreting information, and deriving conclusions. So, this is another major reason why research is crucial in education.
Research promotes curiosity
In the words of Albert Einstein , “Curiosity is more important than knowledge.” Now, you may wonder why so? Basically, curiosity is a strong desire to learn or know things. It motivates you to pursue an everlasting journey of learning.
Every curious individual observes things, experiments, and learns. It seems that knowledge follows curiosity, but the vice versa is not true. An individual may gain a lot of knowledge about multiple things despite not being curious. But, then, he might not use his knowledge to engage in innovation because of the lack of curiosity.
Hence, his knowledge might become futile, or he may just remain a bookworm. So, curiosity is more important than knowledge, and research promotes curiosity. How?
The answer is because research helps you plunge into things. You observe what is not visible to everyone. You explore the wonders of nature and other phenomena. The more you know, the more you understand that you don’t know, which ignites curiosity.
Research boosts confidence and self-esteem
Developing confident individuals is one of the major goals of education. When students undertake the journey of research and come up with important conclusions or results, they develop immense confidence in their knowledge and skills.
Related: Why is Self Confidence Important?
They feel as if they can do anything. This is another important reason why research is crucial in education.
Research helps students evolve into independent learners
Most of the time, teachers guide students on the path of learning. But, research opportunities give students chances to pave their own learning path.
It is like they pursue a journey of learning by themselves. They consult different resources that seem appropriate, use their own methods, and shape the journey on their own.
This way, they evolve into independent learners, which is excellent as it sets the foundation for lifelong learning.
Theresa Bertuzzi
Chief Program Development Officer and Co-founder, Tiny Hoppers
Research helps revamp the curriculum and include proven best techniques
Research is critical in education as our world is constantly evolving, so approaches and solutions need to be updated to best suit the current educational climate.
With the influx of child development and psychology studies, educators and child product development experts are honing how certain activities, lessons, behavior management, etc., can impact a child’s development.
For example, child development research has led to the development of toy blocks, jigsaws, and shape sorters, which have proven to be linked to:
Spatial thinking
Logical reasoning
Shape and color recognition
There is no one-size-fits-all when approaching educational practices; therefore, we can revamp the curriculum and include proven best techniques and methodologies by continuously researching past strategies and looking into new tactics.
Effective teaching requires practical evidence approaches rather than making it a guessing game.
The combination of work done by child educators of all ages, and research in child development psychology allow new developments in toys, activities, and practical resources for other educators, child care workers, and parents. Such ensures children can reap the benefits of child development research.
It enables a better understanding of how to adapt methods of instruction
In addition, with all of the various learning styles, researching the diversity in these types will enable a better understanding of how to adapt methods of instruction to all learners’ needs.
Child development research gives educators, child care workers, and parents the ability to guide the average child at specific age ranges, but each child is unique in their own needs .
It is important to note that while this is the average, it is up to the educator and childcare provider to adapt accordingly to each child based on their individual needs.
Scott Winstead
Education Technology Expert | Founder, My eLearning World
It’s the most important tool for expanding our knowledge
Research is an integral part of education for teachers and students alike. It’s our most important tool for expanding our knowledge and understanding of different topics and ideas.
Educators need to be informed about the latest research to make good decisions and provide students with quality learning opportunities.
Research provides educators with valuable information about how students learn best so they can be more effective teachers.
It also helps us develop new methods and techniques for teaching and allows educators to explore different topics and ideas in more detail.
For students, research allows them to explore new topics and develop critical thinking skills along with analytical and communication skills.
In short, research is vital in education because it helps us learn more about the world around us and improves the quality of education for everyone involved.
Connor Ondriska
CEO, SpanishVIP
It creates better experiences and improves the quality of education
Research continues to be so important in education because we should constantly be improving as educators. If one of the goals of education is to continually work on making a better world, then the face of education a century ago shouldn’t look the same today.
You can apply that same logic on a shorter scale, especially with the technological boom . So research is a way that educators can learn about what’s working, what isn’t, and what are the areas we need to focus on.
For example, we focus purely on distance learning, which means we need to innovate in a field that doesn’t have a ton of research yet. If we’re being generous, we can say that distance education became viable in the 1990s, but people are just now accepting it as a valid way to learn.
Since you can’t necessarily apply everything you know about traditional pedagogy to an online setting, It’s an entirely different context that requires its own study.
As more research comes out about the effectiveness and understanding of this type of education, we can adapt as educators to help our students. Ultimately, that research will help us create better experiences and improve the quality of distance education.
The key here is to make sure that research is available and that teachers actually respond to it. In that sense, ongoing research and continual teacher training can go hand-in-hand.
It leads to more effective educational approaches
Research in the field of language learning is significant. We’re constantly changing our understanding of how languages are learned. Over just the last century, there have been dozens of new methodologies and approaches.
Linguists/pedagogues have frequently re-interpreted the language-learning process, and all of this analytical research has revolutionized the way we understand language.
We started with simple Grammar Translation (how you would learn Latin), and now research focuses on more holistic communication techniques. So we’ve definitely come a long way, but we should keep going.
Now with distance education, we’re experiencing another shift in language learning. You don’t need to memorize textbook vocabulary. You don’t need to travel abroad to practice with native speakers.
Thanks to ongoing research, we’ve developed our own method of learning Spanish that’s been shown to be 10x more efficient than traditional classroom experiences.
So if we’ve been able to do so, then maybe someone will develop an even better methodology in the future. So research and innovation are only leading to more effective educational approaches that benefit the entire society.
Research helps everyone in the education field to become better
This stands in both the public and private sectors. Even though we’re an education business, public schools should also be adapting to new ways to utilize distance learning.
As more technology becomes readily available to students, teachers should capitalize on that to ensure everyone receives a better education.
Related: How Important Is Technology in Education
There is now a vast body of research about technology in the language classroom, so why not take advantage of that research and create better lesson plans?
So as new research appears, everyone in the education field will become a better teacher. And that statement will stand ten years from now. Education needs to adapt to the needs of society, but we need research to know how we can do that appropriately .
James Bacon, MSEd
Director of Outreach and Operations, Edficiency
Research gives schools confidence to adopt different practices
Research in education is important to inform teachers, administrators, and even parents about what practices have been shown to impact different outcomes that can be important, like:
Student learning outcomes (often measured by test scores)
Graduation and/or attendance rates
Social-emotional skills
College and/or job matriculation rates, among many others
Research can give insights into which programs, teaching methods, curricula, schedules, and other structures provide which benefits to which groups and thus give schools the confidence to adopt these different practices.
It measures the impact of innovations
Research in education also enables us to measure different innovations that are tried in schools, which is also essential to push the field of education further.
It also ensures that students learn individually and collectively more than those we’ve educated in the past, or at least in different ways, to respond to changes and help shape society’s future.
Research can give us the formal feedback to know if innovations happening in classrooms, schools, and districts across the country (and the world) are having the intended impact and whether or not they should be continued, expanded, discontinued, or used only in specific contexts.
Without research, we might continue to innovate to the detriment of our students and education system without knowing it.
Loic Bellet
Business English Coach, Speak Proper English
It provides numerous advantages to explore profession
Developing a research-based approach to enhance your practice gives you the evidence you need to make changes in your classroom, school, and beyond.
In the light of the ongoing discussion over what works and why, there are numerous advantages to exploring your profession, whether for immediate improvement via action research and, more broadly, for acquiring awareness and knowledge on topics of interest and significance.
There are several advantages to incorporating research into your practice. This is why research is a part of teacher education from the beginning.
Research can be used to:
Assist you in discovering solutions to specific issues that may arise in your school or classroom.
Support professional knowledge, competence, and understanding of learning
Connect you to information sources and expert support networks.
When implementing change, such as curriculum, pedagogy, or assessment, it’s important to spell out the goals, processes, and objectives.
Improve your organizational, local, and national grasp of your professional and policy environment, allowing you to educate and lead better strategically and effectively.
Inside your school and more broadly within the profession, develop your agency, impact, self-efficacy, and voice.
Each of these may entail an investigation based on evidence out of your environment and evidence from other sources.
Although research methodologies have progressed significantly, the importance of research alone has grown .
We’ve seen online research gaining popularity, and the value of research is increasing by the day. As a result, companies are looking for online access researchers to work with them and carry out research for accurate data from the internet.
Furthermore, research became a requirement for survival. We’ll have to do it nonetheless. We can’t make business judgments, launch businesses, or prove theories without extensive research. There has been a lot of effort to create research a base of info and advancement.
Saikiran Chandha
CEO and Founder, Typeset
It offers factual or evidence-based learning approach
It’s evident that research and education are intertwined! On a broader spectrum, education is something that you perceive as a fundamental part of your learning process (in your institutions, colleges, school, etc.).
It improves your skills, knowledge, social and moral values. But on the other hand, research is something that you owe to as it provides you with the scientific and systemic solution to your educational hardships.
For example: Research aids in implementing different teaching methods, identifying learning difficulties and addressing them, curriculum development, and more.
Accordingly, research plays a significant role in offering a factual or evidence-based learning approach to academic challenges and concerns.
And the two primary benefits of research in education are:
Research helps to improve the education system
Yes, the prime focus of research is to excavate, explore and discover a new, innovative, and creative approach to enhance the teaching and learning methods based on the latest educational needs and advancements.
Research fuels your knowledge bank
Research is all about learning new things, data sourcing, analysis, and more. So, technically, research replenishes your knowledge bank with factual data.
Thus, it helps educators or teachers develop their subject knowledge, aids in-depth harvest erudition, and increases overall classroom performance.
Chaye McIntosh, MS, LCADC
Clinical Director, ChoicePoint Health
It improves the learning curve
Research, I believe, is a fundamental part of education, be it by the student or the teacher.
When you research a topic, you will not just learn and read about stuff related to the topic but also branch out and learn new and different things. This improves the learning curve, and you delve deeper into topics, develop interest and increase your knowledge.
Academically and personally, I can grow every day and attain the confidence that the abundance of information brings me.
It builds up understanding and perspective
Research can help you build up understanding and perspective regarding the niche of choice; help you evaluate and analyze it with sound theories and a factual basis rather than just learning just for the sake of it.
Educationally, it can help you form informed opinions and sound logic that can be beneficial in school and routinely. Not only this, when you do proper research on any educational topic and learn about the facts and figures, chances are you will score better than your classmates who only have textbook knowledge.
So the research will give you an edge over your peers and help you perform better in exams and classroom discussions.
Matthew Carter
Attorney, Inc and Go
Solid research is a skill you need in all careers
That goes double for careers like mine. You might think that attorneys learn all the answers in law school, but in fact, we know how to find the answers we need through research.
Doctors and accountants will tell you the same thing. No one can ever hold all the knowledge they need. You have to be able to find the correct answer quickly. School is the perfect place to learn that.
Research enables you to weigh sources and find the best ones
How do you know the source you have found is reliable? If you are trained in research, you’ve learned how to weigh sources and find the best ones.
Comparing ideas and using them to draw bigger conclusions helps you not only in your career but in your life. As we have seen politically in the last few years, it enables you to be a more informed citizen.
Research makes you more persuasive
Want to have more civil conversations with your family over the holidays? Being able to dig into a body of research and pull out answers that you actually understand makes you a more effective speaker.
People are more likely to believe you when you have formed an opinion through research rather than parroting something you saw on the news. They may even appreciate your efforts to make the conversation more logical and civil.
As for me, I spend a lot of time researching business formation now, and I use that in my writing.
George Tsagas
Owner, eMathZone
Research helps build holistic knowledge
Your background will cause you to approach a topic with a preconceived notion. When you take the time to see the full context of a situation, your perspective changes.
Researching one topic also expands your perspective of other topics. The information you uncover when studying a particular subject can inform other tangential subjects in the future as you build a greater knowledge of the world and how connected it is.
As a result, any initial research you do will be a building block for future studies. You will begin each subsequent research process with more information. You will continue to broaden your perspective each time.
Research helps you become more empathic
Even if you don’t change your mind on a subject, researching that topic will expose you to other points of view and help you understand why people might feel differently about a situation.
The more knowledge you gain about how others think, the more likely you are to humanize them and be more empathetic to diverse viewpoints and backgrounds in the future.
Research teaches you how to learn
Through the research process, you discover where you have information gaps and what questions to ask in order to solve them. It helps you approach a subject with curiosity and a willingness to learn rather than thinking you have the right answer from the beginning.
Georgi Georgiev
Owner, GIGA calculator
It helps us learn about the status quo of existing literature
The starting point of every scientific and non-scientific paper is in-depth literature research.
It helps to:
gather casual evidence about a specific research topic
answer a specific scientific question
learn about the status quo of existing literature
identify potential problems and raise new questions
Anyone writing a scientific paper needs evidence based on facts to back up theories, hypotheses, assumptions, and claims. However, since most authors can’t derive all the evidence on their own, they have to rely on the evidence provided by existing scientific (and peer-reviewed) literature.
Subsequently, comprehensive literature research is inevitable. Only by delving deeply into a research topic will the authors gather the data and evidence necessary for a differentiated examination of the current status quo.
This, in turn, will allow them to develop new ideas and raise new questions.
Craig Miller
Co-Founder, Academia Labs LLC
Research supplements knowledge gaps
In the academe, research is critical. Our daily lives revolve around research, making research an integral part of education.
If you want to know which restaurant in your area serves the best steak, you’d have to research on the internet and read reviews. If you want to see the procedure for making an omelet, you’d have to research on the internet or ask your parents. Hence, research is part of our lives, whether we want it or not.
It is no secret that there are a lot of knowledge gaps in the knowledge pool. Research is the only thing that can supplement these gaps and answer the questions with no answers.
It will also provide the correct information to long-debated questions like the shape of the Earth and the evolution of man.
With every information readily available to us with just a click and a scroll on the internet, research is crucial in identifying which data are factual and which are just fake news . More than that, it helps transfer correct information from one person to another while combating the spread of false information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the importance of research.
Research plays a critical role in advancing our knowledge and understanding of the world around us. Here are some key reasons why research is so important:
• Generates new knowledge : Research is a process of discovering new information and insights. It allows us to explore questions that have not yet been answered, and to generate new ideas and theories that can help us make sense of the world.
• Improves existing knowledge : Research also allows us to build on existing knowledge, by testing and refining theories, and by uncovering new evidence that supports or challenges our understanding of a particular topic.
• Drives innovation : Many of the greatest innovations in history have been driven by research. Whether it’s developing new technologies, discovering new medical treatments, or exploring new frontiers in science, research is essential for pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
• Informs decision-making : Research provides the evidence and data needed to make informed decisions. Whether it’s in business, government, or any other field, research helps us understand the pros and cons of different options, and to choose the course of action that is most likely to achieve our goals.
• Promotes critical thinking : Conducting research requires us to think critically, analyze data, and evaluate evidence. These skills are not only valuable in research, but also in many other areas of life, such as problem-solving, decision-making, and communication.
What is the ultimate goal of a research?
The ultimate goal of research is to uncover new knowledge, insights, and understanding about a particular topic or phenomenon. Through careful investigation, analysis, and interpretation of data, researchers aim to make meaningful contributions to their field of study and advance our collective understanding of the world around us.
There are many different types of research, each with its own specific goals and objectives. Some research seeks to test hypotheses or theories, while others aim to explore and describe a particular phenomenon. Still, others may be focused on developing new technologies or methods for solving practical problems.
Regardless of the specific goals of a given research project, all research shares a common aim: to generate new knowledge and insights that can help us better understand and navigate the complex world we live in.
Of course, conducting research is not always easy or straightforward.
Researchers must contend with a wide variety of challenges, including finding funding, recruiting participants, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting their results. But despite these obstacles, the pursuit of knowledge and understanding remains a fundamental driving force behind all scientific inquiry.
How can research improve the quality of life?
Research can improve the quality of life in a variety of ways, from advancing medical treatments to informing social policies that promote equality and justice. Here are some specific examples:
• Medical research : Research in medicine and healthcare can lead to the development of new treatments, therapies, and technologies that improve health outcomes and save lives.
For example, research on vaccines and antibiotics has helped to prevent and treat infectious diseases, while research on cancer has led to new treatments and improved survival rates.
• Environmental research : Research on environmental issues can help us to understand the impact of human activities on the planet and develop strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change.
For example, research on renewable energy sources can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the environment for future generations.
• Social research : Research on social issues can help us to understand and address social problems such as poverty, inequality, and discrimination.
For example, research on the effects of poverty on child development can inform policies and programs that support families and promote child well-being.
• Technological research : Research on technology can lead to the development of new products and services that improve quality of life, such as assistive technologies for people with disabilities or smart home systems that promote safety and convenience.
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Strengthening the Impact of Education Research
Across the OECD, enormous investment and effort has aimed to reinforce the quality, production and use of education research in policy and practice. Despite this, strengthening the impact of research in education policy making and practice remains a challenge for many systems.
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The Strengthening the Impact of Education Research project supports countries in understanding how to use education research in policy and practice, systematically and at scale.
The project explores the following questions:
What factors – institutions, structures, resources, characteristics, processes and strategies – facilitate or hinder the impact and systematic use of education research in policy and practice?
How can we assess and safeguard the quality of education research?
How can we effectively engage actors in a coordinated production and use of education research?
The project supports countries in developing strategies and mechanisms that facilitate the use of education research in policy and practice. It does this by:
Synthesising cutting-edge research on knowledge mobilisation
Collecting and analysing data on existing mechanisms and barriers related to facilitating the use of research.
Bringing together stakeholders and experts to share and reflect on developments and practices from different systems and sectors.
Offering peer learning activities on different aspects of research use and mobilisation.
Research and Analysis
Policy survey.
The project conducted a policy survey in 2021 to map:
Actors, mechanisms and relationships that facilitate research use in policy making and practice
Barriers and challenges in terms of mindset and culture of research use, resources, skills and capacity as well as learning opportunities
Aspects of research production: accessibility, relevance, involvement of different actors, incentives and funding.
Overall, 37 systems representing 29 countries have responded to the survey, reflecting education ministries’ perspectives on research production and use. See the main findings in the ‘’Who Cares about Using Education Research in Policy and Practice?’’ and the “ Who Really Cares about Using Education Research in Policy and Practice? ” reports.
OECD Survey of Knowledge Mobilisation
In 2023, the project conducted a survey that collected data from a range of organisations playing a role in facilitating research use in policy and practice in education (including brokerage agencies, initial teacher education institutions, inspectorates, consultancies, etc.). The survey aimed to characterise knowledge mobilisation activities across different organisations and learn about their effectiveness and impact.
The survey collected 288 responses from organisations in 35 countries. Data analysis is underway.
Applied work with Stakeholders
The project is actively building partnerships with key players in the field of research mobilisation, including academics and experts, “what works” centres and other organisations such as foundations, networks and partnerships, to share knowledge and achieve common objectives and research goals.
Engagement with countries and key actors is supported by a series of events, such as learning seminars, webinars and expert meetings, as well as other communication platforms.
In 2022 and 2023, the project conducted three learning seminars, hosted by the Netherlands, Belgium (Flemish community) and Norway, with the participation of Denmark, England, Finland, Ireland and Sweden. A set of case studies of various mechanisms for research use in policy making were published drawing on the seminar in a publication entitled “Yes Minister, Yes Evidence: Structures and skills for better evidence use in education policy”.
Publications
How to be a Marco Polo of education research, policy and practice , 19 September 2023
Even The Beatles needed an Intermediary , 13 January 2023
More facts, key findings and policy recommendations
Meet the team
Nóra Révai Project Manager, Analyst
Jordan Hill Analyst
Melissa Mouthaan Analyst
José Manuel Torres Analyst
Aurelija Masiulytė Project Assistant
For queries or more information, please contact the team: EDResearch@oecd.org
Home > Blog > Tips for Online Students > Top 10 Reasons Why Is Education Important
Getting Into College , Tips for Online Students , Tips for Students , Why Go to College
Top 10 Reasons Why Is Education Important
Updated: June 19, 2024
Published: April 15, 2020
Most of us have grown up being taught the importance of education. But why is education important? Through your frustrating school years, you may have thought that it was a waste of time, or was just something that you needed to do in order to get a job. Truth be told, however, education goes so much beyond just getting a job and making your parents happy. In fact, it’s one of the most powerful tools out there.
What Is Education?
Education means studying in order to obtain a deeper knowledge and understanding of a variety of subjects to be applied to daily life. Education is not limited to just knowledge from books, but can also be obtained through practical experiences outside of the classroom.
Top 10 Reasons: Why Is Education Important?
There are many different understandings and definitions of what education is, but one thing can be universally agreed upon, which is the importance of education — and here’s why.
1. Provides Stability
Education provides stability in life, and it’s something that no one can ever take away from you. By being well-educated and holding a college degree , you increase your chances for better career opportunities and open up new doors for yourself.
2. Provides Financial Security
On top of stability, education also provides financial security, especially in today’s society. A good education tends to lead to a higher paying job, as well as provide you with the skills needed to get there.
3. Needed For Equality
In order for the entire world to really become equal, it needs to start with education. If everyone was provided with the same opportunities to education , then there would be less gaps between social classes. Everyone would be able to have an equal chance at higher paying jobs — not just those that are already well-off.
4. Allows For Self-Dependency
The importance of education is evident when it comes to being self-dependent. If we are we educated, then it’s something that belongs to us, and only us, allowing us to rely on no one else other than ourselves. It can allow you to not only be financially independent, but also to make your own choices.
5. Make Your Dreams Come True
If you can dream it, you can achieve it. An education is the most powerful weapon you can possibly have, and with it, you can make all of your dreams come true. There are of course certain exceptions, depending on what you’re aiming for, but generally an education will take you as far as you’re willing to go.
6. A Safer World
Education is something that’s not only needed on a personal level, but also on a global level, as it’s something that keeps our world safe and makes it a more peaceful place. Education tends to teach people the difference between right and wrong, and can help people stay out of risky situations.
7. Confidence
Being self-confident is a major part of being successful in life. And what better way to gain that confidence than with an education? Your level of education is often considered a way to prove your knowledge, and it can give you the confidence to express your opinions and speak your mind.
8. A Part Of Society
In today’s society, having an education is considered a vital part of being accepted by those around you. Having an education is believed to make you a useful part of society, and can make you feel like a contributing member as well.
9. Economic Growth On A National Level
An educated society is crucial for economic growth. We need people to continue to learn and research in order to constantly stay innovative. Countries with higher literacy rates also tend to be in better economic situations. With a more educated population, more employment opportunities are opened.
10. Can Protect You
Education can protect you more than you know, not only on a financial level, but it can help prevent you from being taken advantage of by knowing how to read and write, such as knowing not to sign any bogus documents.
Photo by Pixabay from Pexels
Education is important for children.
Children are the future of our world, making education crucial for them. Their knowledge is what’s going to keep our world alive and flourishing.
At Childhood
During the childhood development stages, the importance of education is stronger than ever. It’s a time for children to learn social and mental skills that will be crucial for their growth and success in the future. Education at childhood also offers a chance for self-discovery and to learn about their unique interests.
The importance of education in our lives goes far beyond what we can read in a textbook. Education also provides childhood with knowledge such as how to produce artwork and make music. Education allows us to analyze what’s in front of us, and even learn from our mistakes.
Goal Building
By learning from a young age, children are given the chance to start building goals for themselves. Education means having the logic to set your mind to something and achieve it.
Importance Of Education In Society
For a modern society, education is of utmost importance. There are so many influences coming from all directions, and education can help us decipher what we should take as true, and what we should take with a grain of salt. Education can mold people into functional members of society with the right kinds of values.
Productivity
Education is needed for a productive society. Our population only continues to increase, and in turn, so do our needs. We need a strong and efficient workforce of educated people to provide us with the services we need for everyday life.
The Impact Education Has On The World
With education, people can become better citizens, knowing right from wrong, allowing for a better society where laws are followed. An educated nation knows about the importance of voting, doing so with the knowledge not blindly, but also having an understanding of what their party truly stands for. Education can also help people get jobs, which is what a nation thrives on.
Inspiring Quotes On What Education Truly Is
Why is education important, and what is it exactly? While every person has a different understanding of its true meaning, here are some of the most inspiring quotes by some legendary people.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” — Nelson Mandela
“Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” — Malcolm X
“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” — Benjamin Franklin
“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” — John Dewey
What Are Some Other Reasons Why Education Is Important?
There are endless reasons why education is so important, especially since it also has endless connotations and meanings.
Mind And Body
Our mind and bodies are connected more than we know. With a powerful, well-educated mind, so too are our bodies.
Education helps us understand how to best take care of ourselves, boosting our confidence and overall well-being. Studies have shown that each additional year of education can add up to 1.7 years to our lifespan at the age of 35.
The importance of education also extends to personal growth. By constantly learning, asking questions, and seeking knowledge, we can achieve things we never imagined before. Education helps us get to know ourselves better, whether through books, courses, or professional consultations.
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Worldwide value.
Education is the best way to ensure a positive global perspective. Without proper education, it is difficult to understand what is considered appropriate and how to behave.
Education brings us closer to the goal of world peace by teaching us about our place in the world and our responsibilities to humanity. It instills values far beyond the classroom, encompassing lessons learned at home and through interactions with others. These teachings are essential aspects of what education entails, guiding our behavior and understanding of the world.
Sharpens Your Thinking
Education is essential for sharp and clear thinking. It keeps you informed about the world, making you aware of current events and the people around you. Education helps you understand your strengths and weaknesses, guiding you to focus on the right areas.
It enhances logical reasoning, enabling you to argue effectively with accurate facts and work through situations logically. Education keeps you focused and on track, knowing the right path for you.
It also promotes innovation and creativity, allowing your mind to reach its full potential. Education develops basic life skills and street smarts, teaching us how to best conduct ourselves daily.
Education can be the most freeing and empowering thing in the world. It enables you to live life to the fullest by gaining a vast amount of knowledge about the world. Education ensures continual learning from various sources, whether through people, newspapers, experiences, research, or traditional classes.
It breaks barriers, empowering people globally and offering equal opportunities for all socio-economic backgrounds. University of the People, a tuition-free, online university, exemplifies this by providing accessible higher education to everyone.
Education allows you to become the best version of yourself, discovering your interests, strengths, and place in the world, making you feel complete and self-aware.
Education In The Modern World
Education today is more important than ever before, and has reached new heights with new understandings of what it truly entails. Ask yourself “Why is education important?” and it will surely not be the same as anyone else’s answer.
While in modern society, holding a college degree is considered to be highly beneficial for a successful career and to be socially accepted, it is not the only means of education. Education is all around us in everything that we do, so use it wisely!
FAQ Section
What are the primary goals of education.
The primary goals of education are to impart knowledge, develop critical thinking, and foster personal and social growth. It aims to prepare individuals for the workforce, promote civic responsibility, and encourage lifelong learning.
How does education influence future opportunities?
Education enhances future opportunities by increasing employability, boosting earning potential, and providing a foundation for personal and professional growth. It opens doors to higher-paying jobs and further educational pursuits.
How does education vary across different countries?
Education varies globally in structure, quality, and accessibility due to differences in economic development, cultural values, and government policies. Some countries focus on standardized testing, while others emphasize holistic or experiential learning.
What is the role of technology in education?
Technology enhances education by providing access to online learning, digital resources, and interactive tools. It supports personalized learning, enables innovative teaching methods, and makes education more accessible and engaging.
How does education contribute to personal growth?
Education promotes personal growth by expanding knowledge, improving cognitive abilities, and fostering critical thinking. It helps develop self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and effective communication skills.
How does education address societal issues like discrimination?
Education combats discrimination by promoting inclusivity and awareness. It teaches about diversity, tolerance, and human rights, helping to break down prejudices and empower marginalized communities.
What are the economic benefits of investing in education?
Investing in education leads to higher productivity, increased innovation, and a more skilled workforce. It reduces poverty, boosts economic growth, and lowers reliance on social welfare programs.
Can education foster innovation and entrepreneurship?
Yes, education fosters innovation and entrepreneurship by encouraging creative thinking and problem-solving. It provides the skills and knowledge necessary for developing new ideas and launching successful businesses.
What role do educators play in shaping the educational experience?
Educators shape the educational experience by creating engaging learning environments, guiding students, and adapting teaching methods to meet diverse needs. They mentor and inspire students to achieve their full potential.
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Metropolitan Center for Research on Equity and the Transformation of Schools
A special issue of nyu metro center's vue illustrates the importance of cultivating cultural sustainment for students of color in stem and computing education.
Equity ensures that no matter where children live, they have access to quality learning environments. If we desire a nation where our future leaders, managers, and employees can understand and solve the complex challenges of tomorrow, we must effectively teach STEM education throughout the United States. How else can we expect today’s youth and future generations to meet the demands of an evolving career field and workforce? Enhancing the quality of student instruction in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math is critical. Equally important, a child’s zip code or racial background should not determine their STEM literacy or educational options.
NYU Metro Center brings forth a special issue of Voices in Urban Education (VUE) , with the goal of bringing educators’, researchers’, and youths’ voices together in conversation about the importance of centering self-empowerment in our educational work and practices. VUE, Volume 52, Issue 2, explores how educators can support youth to see themselves as creators with technology and recognize their everyday lives and part of their presence and participation within their communities.
Collectively, the authors of each of the thirteen (13) different articles which compose this issue of VUE, grappled with the question that too frequently haunts STEM educators teaching students of color, “How can we bring love, community, and joy to the center of learning experiences to support a diversity of youth to flourish?” Sadly, computing and STEM disciplines are often taught in ways that detach knowledge from people and communities, making it difficult to explore a variety of personal, social, and societal connections that are not already at the center of the tech industry. These exclusionary practices limit the way work is accomplished—including who is involved in the design work and who technological innovations are designed for; as well as the way the work is situated within our society—including what problems technology is designed to solve and who benefits from particular innovations (Benjamin, 2019; Noble, 2018). Learning experiences and spaces for technology education should support youth as they develop new knowledge and skills in ways that recognize them as full humans, and enable them to ground it in their ideas, perspectives, interests, goals, identities, communities, relationships, and local environments.
Aligned with those guiding principles the various practitioners and researchers contributing to this exceptional edition of VUE, share approaches to and perspectives on conducting interdisciplinary STEM and arts educational experiences to cultivate cultural sustainment and flourishing of youth of color. Narratives from Yamilée Toussaint and Jennifer Loving of STEM From Dance and a discussion with Dr. Detra Price-Dennis and Dr. Yolanda Sealey-Ruiz exemplify the importance of love, joy, playfulness, and creativity to lay the foundation for learning, growth, and freedom.
This latest edition of VUE entitled, Centering Community Healing, Sustenance, and Resilience in STEM and Computing Education Through Art and Social Justice permits readers to witness how STEM From Dance has centered joy as a way to empower youth through computing educational experiences that reflect culturally situated dance practices. Professors Detra Price-Dennis, and Yolanda Sealey-Ruiz share resonant ideas as VUE’s Senior Editorial Fellow, Cami Touloukian engages them in conversation. The trio explore education as a place for cultivating love and relationships as the foundation for building the world we want to live in.
Additional selections in this VUE special issue come from NYU’s Dr. Mia Shaw and Clarisa James, Co-Founder/Executive Director of DIVAS for Social Justice . Both articles, “How Integrating Quilt-Making with Computation Supported Black Teens in Reimagining Liberatory Futures with Emerging Technologies” , and “STEAM for Social Change: The Anti-Gun Violence Asset Mapping Project” , demonstrate the superlative power of narratives and storytelling as opportunities to center learners’ knowledge, experiences, and perspectives while offering places for critiquing current systems and societal dispositions. Other contributors, such as Elizabeth Leonard of Community Word Project , Clarisa James , and educational researcher, Lora Caweti , emphasize the importance of the arts for centering learners’ voices and knowledge, creating dialogue, bridging power dynamics, and facilitating the transformation of participation. While still other contributions to this extraordinary edition of VUE come from visual artist, Dr. Nettrice Gaskins , and Dr. Kareem Edoudard who examine how we can center authentic arts practices and connections to youth learners’ identities, cultures, and communities.
Lastly, this edition of Voices in Urban Education also features artistic contributions from youth and community members. More broadly, this includes students from the DIVAS for Social Justice Program sharing a dance and music composition “Make Me Black” promoting pride in one’s culture and identity. While participants in STEM From Dance showcase a dance performance with coded animations designed in synchrony with their choreography. The work exemplifies their artistic expression on the intersection of code and dance. Additionally, VUE also received selections from Divinity Nix-Sow , who shares photos from her Black History Month natural hair shoot and the poem she wrote that inspired the shoot. The work ties together the richness possible through connecting across various forms of art and the ways it can bring us together as a society.
This latest issue of Voices in Urban Education , like each previous issue, endeavors to serve as a “roundtable-in-print” by bringing together diverse education stakeholders with a wide range of viewpoints, including leading education writers and thinkers, as well as essential but frequently underrepresented voices in educational scholarship, such as students, parents, teachers, activists, and community members. VUE, Volume 52, Issue 2, in keeping with the long tradition of NYU Metro Center’s open-source journal, successfully brings together wide-ranging scholarship and profound perspectives. Each of the ideas shared is grounded in a variety of contexts, which can facilitate our continued growth as a community, guiding how we design and carry out STEM, computing, and arts education. Every one of the many voices expressed in this issue of VUE, adds to the foundation of research offered in support of youth of color and those historically decentralized in education, conversations, and applications with technology.
Check out the latest edition of NYU Metro Center's VUE- Volume 52, Issue 2 Read: Centering Community Healing Sustenance, and Resilience in STEM and Computing Education Through Art and Social Justice
Benjamin, R., (2019). Race after technology: Abolitionist tools for the new Jim code . John Wiley & Sons.
Noble, S. U., (2018) Algorithms of oppression: How search engines reinforce racism . New York University Press.
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The State of Chronic Absenteeism: New Research from Panorama Education
Sam DeFlitch
Chronic absenteeism, defined as missing 10% or more of school days, has notably increased since the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, annual chronic absenteeism rates—reflected in Panorama’s own data—nearly doubled from 2018-19 to 2023-24.
To help you uncover what you can do about this critical issue, Panorama Education’s Data Science and Applied Research Team completed an extensive study on the state of chronic absenteeism. Using Panorama’s unique national data, we’ve analyzed the complete attendance information for over 7,000 schools and 11 million student records. Here's what we found:
The School That a Student Attends Matters to Absenteeism
Controlling for student attributes, learning needs, and school poverty level, we found that factors within a school's locus of control—such as safety and engagement— can influence a student's likelihood of being chronically absent by as much as 22% .
Specific Survey Topics Correlate Strongly With Chronic Absenteeism
School safety and climate are most linked to absenteeism in elementary and middle schools, with social awareness most linked to absenteeism in high schools.
The Most Important Topics Affecting Chronic Absenteeism by Grade Level
We found that the topics correlating with absenteeism differ by grade level. This insight can provide district leaders with a helpful lens for addressing absenteeism effectively with age-appropriate solutions.
Here are the specific topics that correlated with absenteeism in elementary, middle, and high school, comparing students in the lowest quartile to those in the highest quartile:
Elementary Students :
Those with low self-efficacy, self-management, and school safety ratings are 1.5 times more likely to be chronically absent.
Middle School Students :
Those with low self-efficacy ratings are 1.9 times more likely to be chronically absent.
Those with low school climate and school engagement ratings are 1.8 times more likely to be chronically absent.
High School Students :
Those who don't value school are 1.9 times more likely to be chronically absent.
Those with poor relationships with teachers are 1.8 times more likely to be chronically absent.
Those with low self-efficacy are 1.7 times more likely to be chronically absent.
Next Steps and Strategies for District Leaders
The rise in chronic absenteeism is a complex issue, and understanding its root causes is essential to reversing the current trend. This study, along with prior research, provides valuable strategies that school and district leaders can use to create more inclusive, supportive, and engaging learning environments. By listening to student voices and combining their insights with an understanding of absenteeism trends across the district , leaders can implement meaningful and targeted supports.
Research-Informed Strategies to Boost Attendance
The full report outlines specific, research-informed strategies that district and school leaders can implement to address some of these root causes of chronic absenteeism. Inside, you’ll find:
Key actions for improving school safety , with strategies for each grade level
Ways to take action on Panorama’s research to foster a positive school climate
Strategies to get students actively involved and connected at school—so they are more likely to attend regularly and succeed academically
By leveraging the right resources and interventions, school and district leaders can make significant strides in reducing chronic absenteeism and enhancing the educational experience for all students. This is an opportunity to make a lasting impact—one that addresses the immediate challenges of absenteeism and also paves the way for long-term student success.
Related Articles
What is Chronic Absenteeism & How to Address it
Chronic absenteeism is a pattern of excessive absence from school, and it has become a major challenge. Learn how you can address chronic absenteeism.
How to Improve Student Attendance in Schools
Learn how to address chronic absenteeism with evidence-based attendance interventions. Discover two types of interventions and download a toolkit with strategies to engage families and improve attendance.
Top 3 Findings on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Schools
Learn our top findings on the state of diversity, equity, and inclusion in schools from the student voice perspective.
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A Physician’s First Step: M.D. Class of 2028 Orientation
The annual, two-day event marks the beginning of medical school for the Miller School’s new class and is the first time the entire cohort gathers together.
The Rosenstiel Medical Science Building buzzed with excitement as 235 new medical students from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s Class of 2028 gathered for M.D. orientation.
The annual, two-day event marks the beginning of medical school for the Miller School’s new class and is the first time the entire cohort gathers together. Henri R. Ford, M.D., M.H.A., dean and chief academic officer of the Miller School, welcomed the students.
“You represent the finest students our universities and colleges can produce,” Dean Ford said. “We are confident that you will thrive and become transformative leaders who will shape the future of medicine and improve the health of humanity. Welcome to the Miller School family.”
Celebrating the Highest-Ranking Class
The Class of 2028 boasted an average undergraduate GPA of 3.83 and a 515 MCAT score. Thirty-two students in the class are in the M.D./M.P.H. program and 30 are in the M.D./M.B.A. program . Six students are pursuing M.D./Ph.D. degrees.
The class is comprised of 141 women and 94 men, with 65% from Florida and 35% from out of state. The students hail from institutions such as the University of Miami, Cornell University, Johns Hopkins University, the University of Florida and the University of North Carolina.
“I’m thrilled to be here. Getting into medical school is a huge achievement,” said Julia Apshe, a Class of 2028 student. “This moment marks the beginning of the rest of my life, and I can’t wait to join the medical community. I’m proud to enter a profession that excites me every day and allows me to make a real impact in people’s lives.”
Utilizing Resources and Practicing Self-Care
Miller School leadership shared words of wisdom with the incoming class, highlighting the importance of maintaining a healthy balance and prioritizing mental and physical well-being during the demanding years of medical school.
“You can’t go through this journey by only studying night and day,” Dean Ford said. “Take time for yourself and make strong connections with each other. Remember, we’re here for you. Our doors are always open.”
The speakers also emphasized the vast array of resources available at the Miller School, encouraging students to take full advantage of mentorship opportunities, wellness programs and other support systems designed to help students navigate the rigorous journey ahead while fostering personal and professional growth.
“Be proud to be a part of this class and know that we made the right choice selecting you,” added Hilit Mechaber, M.D. ’95, senior associate dean for student affairs at the Miller School. “This class is full of amazing people ready to embark on a transformative experience.”
Important Introductions
Orientation also familiarized students with the NextGenMD curriculum and the roles of student-focused offices at the Miller School.
Aneesha Raj, Class of 2026 and the Miller School student government president, shared insights about her role, the purpose of the chapter and her own medical school experience.
“Be proud of everything you’ve achieved to get here,” Raj said. “You are surrounded by talented peers. Let them inspire and fuel your passions. Get excited for the journey ahead and enjoy the city you’re in. Miami is a great place to build your life as you work toward your career.”
As always, the Miller School Medical Alumni Association extended a warm welcome to the class. Maria Del Pilar Gutierrez, B.S. ’84, M.D. ’90, president of the association, reminded the students that the alumni organization is here to help them succeed. These words resonated with Samuel Cole, whose father graduated in the M.D. Class of 1995.
“Growing up the son of two physicians, I knew very early on that I wanted to be just like my parents,” Cole said. “My calling is to merge the worlds of public health and medicine to provide better care for my patients. I hope to gain a strong clinical foundation here at the Miller School, build lifelong friendships and get involved in the greater Miami community.”
The Class of 2028 will take their formal entry into the medical field at the John G. Clarkson White Coat and Freshman Pinning Ceremony on August 23. Stay tuned as we highlight members from the incoming class leading up to the event.
Tags: Dean Henri Ford , Dr. Hilit Mechaber , medical education , medical students , orientation
A Match Made in Med School
Maya and Becky met in medical school and are now looking forward to Match Day to see where their residencies will take them as a couple.
Exploring Unknown Territory: Krisna Maddy’s Passion for Neuroscience
For Krisna Maddy, 2024 Match Day will be a chance to celebrate and learn where her passion for neuroscience will take her for residency.
Introducing, the Miller School M.D./M.P.H. Class of 2028
The 32 students embarking on the M.D./M.P.H. dual-degree program met faculty and classmates as they looked to the future.
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This article was printed from The Miller School of Medicine Medical News at the following URL: https://news.med.miami.edu/md-class-of-2028-orientation/
Virginia Tech professor's research influences a historic expansion of Medicare’s mental health coverage
In the first half of 2024, approximately 43,000 mental health professionals opted to enroll as independent Medicare providers.
Samantha Smith
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In the last six months, the United States has seen the largest expansion of Medicare’s mental health coverage in history – and a Virginia Tech professor helped make it happen.
Historically, the more than 60 million Americans covered by Medicare, which is federal health insurance for people older than 65 years old, were not able to access services from marriage and family therapists or mental health counselors. That is until a law, heavily influenced by research at Virginia Tech, went into effect in early 2024 .
The law gave mental health professionals not previously covered the opportunity to enroll as Medicare providers. So far, about 43,000 mental health counselors and marriage and family therapists have opted in, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services , allowing those 60 million people covered by Medicare to have access to services they wouldn’t have had before.
Matthew Fullen , associate professor of counselor education at Virginia Tech, has been one of the nation’s leaders in this arena. For years, he’s been advocating for health care professionals to be able to accept Medicare coverage. And by working with the American Counseling Association (ACA), the National Board of Certified Counselors , and other organizations associated with the Medicare Mental Health Workforce Coalition, his ideas finally took hold and influenced policy.
"Modernizing mental health access for Medicare recipients is incredibly timely,” said Fullen, who has worked at Virginia Tech for seven years. “Working alongside colleagues and graduate students to articulate why this change is needed has been the highlight of my career."
Why is the law important?
This law opened the doors for about 400,000 counselors and marriage and family therapists to accept Medicare payments.
Those providers account for about 40 percent of America’s mental health workforce and have largely been unable to accept Medicare enrollees who couldn’t afford to pay out of pocket until now.
So far this year, 36,000 licensed counselors and 7,000 licensed marriage and family therapists have enrolled as Medicare providers.
According to the Administration for Community Living (ACL), the United States will see major growth in those covered by Medicare due to an aging population, which means the number of providers will need to increase to keep pace. Right now, there are roughly 65 million older adults covered by Medicare. The ACL predicts that number will hit 90 million to 95 million in the next 20 or 25 years.
History of Fullen's work
Before the most recent update to Medicare coverage, the policy hadn’t been updated since 1989.
Recognizing that this legislation was in desperate need of an update, Fullen led research by students and faculty at Virginia Tech, both through the School of Education and the Institute for Society, Culture and Environment , with the focus of defining and describing the impacts of the outdated Medicare policy.
“The research that Dr. Fullen and his team were able to produce was, by all accounts, the central reason that this advocacy effort finally came to fruition,” said Gerard Lawson, interim director for the School of Education . “There were thousands upon thousands of older adults, veterans, and individuals with disabilities who were in desperate need of mental health support and were waiting months for appointments. This was especially true for people living in rural areas. Stakeholders that had been struggling with this issue for decades needed data to help legislators understand the scale and scope of the problem, and Dr. Fullen’s research did just that.”
That research then contributed to a larger conversation at the legislative level, helping lawmakers understand how the outdated policy had tangible negative effects in communities nationwide.
“What that research trajectory helped to define was, ‘How many providers are being impacted by this outdated policy?'” said Fullen. “Then, we added qualitative research focused on individual Medicare recipients who had not been able to find services because so much of the mental health workforce was not included.”
According to Lawson, research like this is the bread and butter of the School of Education’s counselor education program .
“This project and the positive impact made by this research and advocacy are right in the wheelhouse for faculty in our counselor education program,” said Lawson. “The faculty in that program are actively engaged in research and advocacy to address thorny issues like this one, as well as school climate and working conditions, rural school counseling, serving LGBT and gende-expansive clients, anti-racist pedagogy, and more. Research and advocacy go hand in hand, and the counselor education faculty are improving the lives of individuals who are receiving mental health services on a day-to-day basis.”
Why did it take so long?
The actual administrative process of making changes to the policy isn’t easy. Medicare is federal law, meaning any revisions to the policy require an act of Congress. But as former chair of the American Counseling Association’s government relations committee, Fullen is no stranger to the work it takes to make legislative change.
While there were some obvious hurdles, years of advocacy work paired with the change in public discourse helped change the tide.
“Thanks to Dr. Fullen’s dedication to the counseling field and support for increased mental health access, mental health counselors, and marriage and family therapists are seen as major actors in addressing the needs of older adults with mental health conditions and increasingly sought by behavioral health systems and health care providers for their expertise in the older adult space,” said Joel Miller, executive consultant with the National Board for Certified Counselors and Affiliates.
Much of that advocacy work was spearheaded by the Medicare Mental Health Workforce Coalition . The CEO of the American Counseling Association, which is a part of the coalition, explained that Fullen’s work has been “pivotal” in moving this landmark legislation forward.
“His relentless advocacy and active participation in the Medicare Mental Health Workforce Coalition, along with his seminal 2019 research which analyzed the impact of the Medicare coverage gap on counseling professionals, is helping to provide those in need with greater access to essential mental health services,” said the association's CEO Shawn Boynes.
Another catalyst that helped change perceptions of mental health was the pandemic because it pushed the needs of often overlooked populations into the spotlight. While a study from the Administration for Community Living shows that older adults fared better in terms of mental health during the height of the pandemic when compared to younger generations, isolation during COVID-19’s peak made discussing mental health more mainstream.
While changing federal law is no easy feat, Fullen said there was overwhelming bipartisan support behind the policy updates.
What’s next?
Now that licensed counselors and marriage and family therapists are approved providers under Medicare, Fullen said his job on the panel is to continue to advise the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on mental health policies.
Looking forward, Fullen said a major goal is to aim for as many providers to enroll as possible. With the influx of new providers, there will also need to be training to help prepare them on how to best help older adults specifically.
Fullen’s appointment to the federal Advisory Panel on Outreach and Education is for two years, and he is one of several professionals on the panel focusing on mental health.
“It's a unique opportunity to represent the mental health community,” said Fullen. “It’s like adding to a part of the conversation that has really not been there before because we didn't get invited to these panels when we weren't part of the program.”
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Minnesota Stands Out for Its Moderately Progressive Tax Code
August 6, 2024
Carl Davis Research Director
Most state tax systems fall short of the public’s perception of fairness by charging the rich lower tax rates than everyone else. Minnesota is among a small group of states that has chosen a different path. In Who Pays? , our comprehensive study of state and local taxes, Minnesota stands apart from the pack with a moderately progressive tax system that asks slightly more of the rich than of low- and middle-income families.
Recent reforms signed by Gov. Tim Walz, the Democratic Party’s presumptive Vice-Presidential nominee, have contributed to this reality. Our analysis shows that taxes on working-class families declined markedly over the last few years in Minnesota, while taxes on high-income people went up slightly over this same period.
The most notable changes were signed into law by Gov. Walz in 2023 as part of a sweeping tax reform package. Some changes were temporary, like taxpayer rebate checks and expanded property tax credits. But the bill also included a host of important, permanent reforms.
Chief among those was a new Child Tax Credit that is expected to slash child poverty in Minnesota by one-third, according to Columbia University’s Center on Poverty and Social Policy. The link between Child Tax Credits and child wellbeing is well established, as the financial security afforded by these credits is associated with improved child and maternal health, better educational achievement, and stronger future economic outcomes.
Other tax cuts signed by Gov. Walz include expanded exemptions for Social Security income and for student loan forgiveness, plus an extension of the Child Care Tax Credit to newborn children.
To help pay for these and other substantial tax cuts, the 2023 bill included a variety of well-targeted tax increases on high-income people and profitable corporations. Certain tax deductions claimed by high-income filers have been scaled back. Capital gains, dividends, and other investment income over $1 million per year is now subject to a modest 1 percent surtax. And multinational corporations reporting income overseas now face higher taxes as well, as the state opted to piggyback on a law written by Congressional Republicans targeting companies’ “low-taxed income.”
While the Minnesota tax code is somewhat progressive, it is far from radical. The state has embraced practical, administrable reforms that have lowered taxes for working-class families, reduced child poverty, and addressed the public’s frustrations with the tax treatment of multinational companies and wealthy people. At the end of the day, Minnesota does better than most states in living up to what most people would consider to be a bare minimum standard of tax fairness: the idea that wealthy people should not pay lower tax rates than everyone else.
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NEOMED Hearing Collaboration Highlighted in 2024 State of Research Address
August 06, 2024
By Alejandro Rivas, MD , Viral Tejani, AuD, PhD , and UH
Innovations in Ear, Nose & Throat | Summer 2024
In his 2024 State of University Hospitals Research Address , Daniel I. Simon, MD , President of Academic & External Affairs and Chief Scientific Officer, highlighted the burgeoning hearing research partnership between University Hospitals and Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED).
It is a collaboration that unites the region’s expertise in peripheral and central hearing loss, fostering cohesion between the two research groups. Dr. Simon underscored how the symbiotic partnership is impacting both basic and clinical science and is significantly amplifying the efficacy of new research grants.
“University Hospitals has a strong center for hearing sciences, led by Kumar Alagramam, PhD , that is conducting research primarily focused on the auditory pathway from the outer ear to the brainstem, whereas the NEOMED team focuses on everything that happens past the brainstem to the auditory cortex of the brain,” says Alejandro Rivas, MD , Division Chief of Otology and Neurotology , Director of the UH Cochlear Implant Center and the Richard W. and Patricia R. Pogue Chair in Auditory Surgery and Hearing Sciences, University Hospitals. “By working together, we can maximize our research efforts to more fully understand the entire auditory pathway to better care for patients and unlock new potential for hearing restoration.”
Proposals Garner Funding
Participants recently held their first symposium and identified joint interests that sparked plans for further collaboration, plans that include the study of the cortex and central auditory pathway in animal models and the implications of hearing loss on children’s behavior. They presented current projects, and four proposals were awarded the opportunity for funding. Other proposals are in development.
“The partnership brings together Northeast Ohio’s leaders in auditory research from both institutions and has become a wonderful mechanism to inspire inquisitive minds as we train UH and NEOMED students,” Dr. Rivas says.
This summer, a group of medical students from NEOMED are participating in basic and clinical research initiatives under way at University Hospitals. “We have a strong clinical infrastructure and volume to offer,” says Viral Tejani, AuD, PhD , Senior Cochlear Implant Clinical Research Audiologist within the University Hospitals Ear, Nose & Throat Institute .
Dr. Tejani is mentoring a student analyzing data gathered through UH’s nationally renowned cochlear implant program. “She will be exposed to the clinical outcomes and some of the factors that are evolving within our cochlear implant patients,” he says. “Specifically, we are looking at how well we’re able to preserve some of the cellular and neural integrity within the auditory system with newer designs of cochlear implants and how patients are doing in terms of word-understanding outcomes, as well as some of the finer details about the electrical circuitry of the implant itself.” Two other NEOMED students are working with University Hospitals and School of Medicine researchers in basic science labs.
Partnering for Innovation
With a research focus on cochlear implant electrophysiology, Dr. Tejani is excited to share knowledge with an audiology faculty member at NEOMED. “The way you advance science and fill in missing links or research gaps is through partnerships,” he says. “This collaboration benefits both institutions by providing opportunities to faculty and students that drive innovation and ultimately help patients.”
The novel partnership is paving the way for the two institutions to bring together additional faculty scholars in other areas of otolaryngology. With one of the largest cochlear implant programs in the nation and a large ENT patient volume, including robust adult and pediatric otolaryngology clinics, University Hospitals offers an ample patient pool for future research endeavors. For example, a current NEOMED researcher is interested in ear infections and can benefit from tapping into University Hospitals’ large clinical caseload treating this condition.
“We want to be recognized not only for our national and international collaborations but also for our regional ones,” Dr. Rivas says. “Hopefully, we will be able to extend these opportunities to colleagues and students in other areas of ENT and beyond.”
For more information about University Hospitals’ partnership with NEOMED and ongoing auditory research, contact Dr. Rivas at [email protected] or Dr. Tejani at [email protected] .
Contributing Experts: Alejandro Rivas, MD Division Chief, Otology and Neurotology Director, Cochlear Implant Center University Hospitals Ear, Nose & Throat Institute Richard W. and Patricia R. Pogue Chair in Auditory Surgery and Hearing Sciences University Hospitals Professor Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Neurological Surgery Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Tags: Innovations in Ear Nose Throat Summer 2024 , Cochlear Implant , Research , Innovation
Importance of Education in Our Life: Essay, Speech, PDF
9+ compelling reasons of the Importance of education in 2024
Importance Of Education
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The Value of Education Research States and the federal government have a legal and ethical obligation to provide high-quality educational opportunities for their students. Far from being unrelated to states' and districts' core education functions, research plays a unique and integral role in identifying best practices, applying resources responsibly, helping keep our education system ...
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Abstract Educational research is repeatedly confronted with the question of its relevance. Current interpretations of relevance narrowly focus on outcomes and impact of research. In this essay, we propose an alternative, ontological conceptualization of relevance, arguing that more is at stake than outcomes and impact. We characterize the ontology of education and learning in terms of people ...
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Virginia Tech professor's research influences a historic expansion of
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The importance of education
PDF | On Jun 1, 2021, Prof. Jório Coelho published The importance of education | Find, read and cite all the research you need on ResearchGate
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Minnesota stands apart from the rest of the country with a moderately progressive tax system that asks slightly more of the rich than of low- and middle-income families. Recent reforms signed by Gov. Tim Walz have contributed to this reality.
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It is a collaboration that unites the region's expertise in peripheral and central hearing loss, fostering cohesion between the two research groups. Dr. Simon underscored how the symbiotic partnership is impacting both basic and clinical science and is significantly amplifying the efficacy of new research grants.
Neuroscience Research Day 2024
This year's Buffalo Neuroscience Research Day is dedicated to the memory of the preeminent M. Laura Feltri, MD, who passed away in December 2023. The event will feature a host of presentations by Dr. Feltri's colleagues and trainees, along with UB faculty and student presenters.
IMAGES
COMMENTS
The Value of Education Research States and the federal government have a legal and ethical obligation to provide high-quality educational opportunities for their students. Far from being unrelated to states' and districts' core education functions, research plays a unique and integral role in identifying best practices, applying resources responsibly, helping keep our education system ...
Education is important on both the personal and global level, as it keeps the world secure and peaceful. In an ideal society, there is no discrimination based on race, gender, religion, socioeconomic class, or literacy. Education can help one form strong beliefs and appreciate the viewpoints of others.
Abstract Educational research is repeatedly confronted with the question of its relevance. Current interpretations of relevance narrowly focus on outcomes and impact of research. In this essay, we propose an alternative, ontological conceptualization of relevance, arguing that more is at stake than outcomes and impact. We characterize the ontology of education and learning in terms of people ...
Research in education is use of the methods of scientific analysis to produce information, needed to make improvements in educational planning, decision making, teaching and. learning, curriculum ...
For contributors and readers of this journal, the importance of demonstrating the potential to impact on policy and practice is important. Researchers working in education typically are also interested in addressing equity issues as political and social agendas, and seeking to explore positive change for others through educational research.
Education research is the scientific field of study that examines education and learning processes and the human attributes, interactions, organizations, and institutions that shape educational outcomes. Scholarship in the field seeks to describe, understand, and explain how learning takes place throughout a person's life and how formal and ...
The core purpose of this paper is to understand the importance of research in education. Research is widely regarded as providing benefits to individuals and to local, regional, national, and international community's involved in the education system. The thrust areas of this paper are characteristics, purposes of research in education, steps ...
Accordingly, new research that investigates the public and personal or private purpose of higher education is needed to understand the extent that students develop the discipline-specific competencies and higher-level learning outcomes that are needed to live responsibly in an increasingly diverse democracy and in an interconnected global ...
A veteran education researcher raises questions about whether educational research is actually being put to use.
Educational research refers to the systematic collection and analysis of evidence and data related to the field of education. Research may involve a variety of methods [1] [2] [3] and various aspects of education including student learning, interaction, teaching methods, teacher training, and classroom dynamics.
Design/Approach/Methods: We review the research literature on the multiple characteristics of evidence relative to consumer (practitioner) interests. We then examine, through a "case illustration" of an initiative in a large school district, a second challenge for evidence usage—conducting viable studies and interpreting outcomes from comprehensive interventions in complex educational ...
The Importance of Education. Education is an important issue in one's life. It is the key to success in the future, and t o. have many opportunities in our life. Education has many advantages ...
This research aims to discover the preservice teachers' essential values of education. In this context, the main question of the research is what are the main values in education according to preservice teachers? The following questions have been answered throughout the study. According to the preservice teachers: 1.
Looking for an answer to the question of why is education important? We address this query with a focus on how education can transform society through the way we interact with our environment.
Education is a right for all, with States' parties the main duty bearers responsible for ensuring that right, but Education is framed in diverse ways. This paper contextualises ECE within the wider field of Education, exploring some of those framings to address an important question for human development: What is the purpose of Education?
Education is a human right, a powerful driver of development, and one of the strongest instruments for reducing poverty and improving health, gender equality, peace, and stability. It delivers large, consistent returns in terms of income, and is the most important factor to ensure equity and inclusion. For individuals, education promotes ...
As research becomes embedded in your practice you can gain a range of benefits. Research can: help you find solutions to particular problems arising in your classroom or school. underpin professional learning of knowledge, skills and understanding. connect you with sources of information and networks of professional support.
Research. What is Educational Research? + [Types, Scope & Importance] Education is an integral aspect of every society and in a bid to expand the frontiers of knowledge, educational research must become a priority. Educational research plays a vital role in the overall development of pedagogy, learning programs, and policy formulation.
Through research and education, the younger generations are inspired and prepared to find new knowledge that advances our community.
PDF | On Jan 1, 2020, Deepa Sharma published Importance of Research in Education | Find, read and cite all the research you need on ResearchGate
Across the OECD, enormous investment and effort has aimed to reinforce the quality, production and use of education research in policy and practice. Despite this, strengthening the impact of research in education policy making and practice remains a challenge for many systems.
Explore the top 10 reasons why education is key to a successful and fulfilling life. Understand its importance in shaping your future.
The latest edition of NYU Metro Center's open-access journal, Voices in Urban Education (VUE), highlights the importance of bringing love, community, and joy to the center of learning experiences to support a diversity of youth to flourish.
Discover the latest research on chronic absenteeism. Learn which factors impact student attendance & learn strategies to address this critical issue.
Miller School leadership shared words of wisdom with the incoming class, highlighting the importance of maintaining a healthy balance and prioritizing mental and physical well-being during the demanding years of medical school.
Recognizing that this legislation was in desperate need of an update, Fullen led research by students and faculty at Virginia Tech, both through the School of Education and the Institute for Society, Culture and Environment, with the focus of defining and describing the impacts of the outdated Medicare policy.
PDF | On Jun 1, 2021, Prof. Jório Coelho published The importance of education | Find, read and cite all the research you need on ResearchGate
Minnesota stands apart from the rest of the country with a moderately progressive tax system that asks slightly more of the rich than of low- and middle-income families. Recent reforms signed by Gov. Tim Walz have contributed to this reality.
It is a collaboration that unites the region's expertise in peripheral and central hearing loss, fostering cohesion between the two research groups. Dr. Simon underscored how the symbiotic partnership is impacting both basic and clinical science and is significantly amplifying the efficacy of new research grants.
This year's Buffalo Neuroscience Research Day is dedicated to the memory of the preeminent M. Laura Feltri, MD, who passed away in December 2023. The event will feature a host of presentations by Dr. Feltri's colleagues and trainees, along with UB faculty and student presenters.