Educational Research

AISNSW provides opportunities for independent schools to undertake, access and utilise educational research in their practice, and own context. Grounding education in evidence informed practice is an essential feature of assuring and enhancing educational excellence.

To encourage and support the effective use of educational research in independent schools, AISNSW provides the following: 

  • funding and support of school based research projects 
  • dissemination of research findings, summaries and infographics 
  • support for research to practice initiatives
  • professional learning opportunities, with a specific research focus 
  • fostering of collaboration and networking.
Research and Data team

Research to Practice

Research to Practice is designed to bridge the gap between research findings and what is happening in the classroom in order to optimise learning outcomes for students. It brings together the latest research on the features that characterise quality teaching and learning in primary Science and Technology with the innovative Spiral of Inquiry, one of the most impactful forms of teacher professional learning.

Each year, teams of teachers from member schools are invited to participate in a one-year project, supported by an AISNSW consultant, during which they have the opportunity to use the Spiral of Inquiry process to inquire deeply into problems and opportunities for students in primary Science and Technology in their own individual contexts.

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Designing for Deep Learning

Deep Learning is a powerful approach which transforms the role of teachers to that of architects of learning, designing experiences that build global competencies – the 6Cs. It combines learning relationships, effective pedagogies, trust-based learning environments and technology to activate learning and engagement.

Member schools are invited to join this impactful three-year initiative and work in partnership with AISNSW and other independent schools committed to this innovative work.

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AISNSW Research Repository

AISNSW is committed to sharing the highest quality evidence from local, national, and international research to help inform practice within the independent sector. The Research Repository houses research outputs in a variety of formats, from summaries to full reports.
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Infographics

Click through to explore AISNSW Infographics

What is educational data?

The What is educational data? infographic introduces the four types of data educators can find and use in their practice.

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Data informed decision making cycle

The Data informed decision making cycle supports educators as they make use of data within their varying educational contexts.

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Assessment for, as and of learning

The Assessment for, as and of learning infographic summarises these three important approaches to assessment, and provides hints on how to incorporate them into your teaching practice.

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School Based Research Projects

School based research projects are undertaken over a two year period by practicing teachers and/or school leaders. 

Projects are in areas of education which ultimately impact student outcomes and make substantial contributions to new insights in and beyond individual schools.

Each year member schools in NSW are invited to apply for funding and support for their proposed two-year project, and projects are selected based on rigorous assessment processes. Schools may apply individually or as a cluster.

Current Projects
Application Information
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Education Research Council

The AIS Education Research Council (ERC) – officially established in 2014 – has a mandate to investigate and support the research needs of independent schools in NSW. This includes:

  • understanding the breadth of research directions and areas of importance to schools
  • engaging whole school communities in evidence based educational practice
  • continuing to make use of up-to-date research and findings to inspire practitioners in independent schools.

Learn more about the ERC’s ground-breaking work.

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Courses and Events

Explore all upcoming professional learning oppourtunities
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