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Virtual reality helps English teachers strengthen the social side of language

A new study suggests that immersive virtual reality training can help English teachers develop the social side of language use, leading to improvements in pragmatic competence and authentic interaction. The training program showed statistically significant gains in pragmalinguistic accuracy and sociopragmatic appropriateness.

SourceECNU Review of Education·JournalECNU Review of Education·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2026

New 20-year study proves pre-K impacts a child’s academic future

A new study from Florida International University found that students who attended public school pre-K performed better academically through high school than those in family-based childcare. The benefits of public school pre-K persisted into adolescence and were attributed to higher-quality teachers and curricula.

SourceFlorida International University·JournalEarly Childhood Research Quarterly·TypeObservational study·DateAug 11, 2026

Reciprocal learning across borders: Education as a bridge in turbulent times

The Canada-China Reciprocal Learning Partnership in Teacher Education and School Education created a durable collaborative space for cross-cultural contact and shared educational practice. The partnership generated substantial evidence of sustained activity, including six collaborative research teams, annual international conferences, ...

SourceECNU Review of Education·JournalECNU Review of Education·TypeObservational study·DateJul 24, 2026

Reflective practice has been "disenchanted": New research calls for a return to teacher flourishing and the virtue of phronesis

Researchers argue that reflective practice has lost its ancient meaning under neoliberal governance, advocating for a return to phronesis as virtue. They propose teacher flourishing as the core of pedagogical tact, emphasizing the importance of habituation of virtue in daily practice.

SourceECNU Review of Education·JournalECNU Review of Education·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 26, 2026

Shanghai trial shows teacher collaboration model boosts classroom support and dialogue

A new study from Shanghai reveals that a collaborative, classroom-focused teacher development model can improve interaction quality in early childhood settings. The KIRM-TCI program leads to measurable gains in emotional and instructional support provided by teachers, resulting in more positive classroom environments and responsive ins...

SourceECNU Review of Education·JournalECNU Review of Education·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 6, 2026

Lessons from Finland: FAU researcher reveals gaps in special education math instruction

A study of Finnish special needs and special class teachers found that data processing, statistics, and probability are under-taught areas, mirroring trends in the US. The researchers emphasize the need for stronger teacher preparation, ongoing professional development, and support to ensure effective strategies are used consistently.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalScandinavian Journal of Educational Research·TypeSurvey·DateApr 22, 2026

Too many teachers are burning out: new research points to micro-credentials as a path forward

A new article by G. Williamson McDiarmid argues that the traditional model of teacher professional development is failing educators, pointing to micro-credentials as a compelling alternative. Micro-credentials offer teachers greater autonomy and control over their learning, which is associated with improved job satisfaction.

SourceECNU Review of Education·JournalECNU Review of Education·TypeCase study·DateMar 26, 2026

Casual teachers left behind: New study calls for better induction and support in schools

A new study by the University of South Australia highlights the need for better induction and support for casual teachers to address teacher shortages. The study found that current induction guidelines mainly cater for secure employment, creating systemic inequities for those in casual or contract roles.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalJournal of Education Policy·TypeContent analysis·DateNov 3, 2025

New study identifies key conditions for amplifying student voices in schools

A new study by Penn State College of Education Professor Dana Mitra found that successful student voice practices depend on a careful balance of cognitive mindsets, emotive 'heartsets,' and intention-building skillsets. The research emphasizes the importance of addressing safety concerns before implementing student voice initiatives.

SourcePenn State·JournalTeachers College Record The Voice of Scholarship in Education·DateAug 19, 2025

Scholar argues for move away from meritocracy in schools to redefine purpose of education

A University of Kansas expert proposes a shift away from the current merit-based education system, citing its limitations in promoting equality and individual fulfillment. By focusing on each student's strengths and interests, a new paradigm can foster personalized education and develop human interdependence, ultimately benefiting both...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalECNU Review of Education·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 16, 2025

What fuels preschool teacher development: lessons from China, Japan, and the United States

A comparative study explores how different systems of professional development influence preschool teacher growth in Japan, China, and the United States. The findings highlight the importance of culturally rooted practices and institutional structures in shaping teacher development, revealing no universal model for this process.

SourceKeio University·JournalComparative Education·TypeSurvey·DateJul 14, 2025

New study examines informal educators’ self-efficacy in facilitating youth civic engagement for the environment

A new study examines the self-efficacy of informal educators in leading youth civic engagement projects. The research found that despite an initial increase in confidence, many educators reported a decrease in self-efficacy after participating in professional development initiatives aimed at addressing environmental issues.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalJournal of Museum Education·DateMay 29, 2025

Study finds unfair expectations place extra pressure on new teachers

A new study by QUT researchers reveals that 'classroom readiness' is a policy construct rather than a genuine assessment of teaching capability. Teaching performance assessments oversimplify the demands of diverse classroom settings and assume graduates can seamlessly transition into teaching with minimal guidance.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalAsia-Pacific Journal of Teacher Education·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 22, 2025

Trends in school mental health and substance use education

Research from 2008-2020 shows an increase in emotional/mental health and suicide prevention in schools, but a decrease in substance use prevention, particularly among middle schools. This shift highlights the need for targeted teacher training and resource allocation to address emerging trends in school mental health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateDec 12, 2024

Are English teachers in Japan ready to teach students with disabilities?

A novel study in Japan identifies key training needs among English teachers to provide more inclusive education for students with disabilities. Most participants felt unprepared and needed targeted training, especially in differentiation and specific considerations for teaching students with diverse needs.

SourceSophia University·JournalAsian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education·TypeObservational study·DateAug 28, 2024

Access to gardens and citizen science helps encourage conservation among children, study shows

A new study by University of Exeter researchers found that access to gardens and citizen science projects can encourage pro-conservation behavior among pupils. These experiences foster a positive attitude towards environmental safeguarding and can inspire students to pursue botanical careers or spend more time gardening.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Biological Education·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 15, 2024

New research: Policies that aim to increase the supply of teachers may also lower teacher pay, thereby perpetuating the cycle of teacher shortages

New research reveals that expanded alternative licensure pathways can lead to attenuated pay for new elementary school teachers. The study found that districts hiring more than 50% of their new teachers through alternative routes experienced stagnating teacher pay after policy implementation.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalAmerican Educational Research Journal·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 7, 2023

Ethnic minority parents want customized advice, research shows

A recent study by Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University found that ethnic minority parents in Inner Mongolia prefer evidence-based knowledge on family education tailored to their local environment and culture. They sought information on how geographical features like the geomagnetic field influence children's growth and well-being.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateMar 6, 2023

Think you're good at math? PSU study shows it may be because you had equitable math teachers

A PSU study found that high school students who perceive their math teacher as equitable are more likely to develop a positive math identity. This effect is strongest in racially diverse schools, where students may be more aware of racial biases and stereotypes about math. Equitable teaching can help counteract these biases and promote...

SourcePortland State University·JournalSociology of Education·TypeSurvey·DateMar 2, 2023

Poor professional development may explain failure of push to promote physical health in schools

A study by University of Cambridge researchers found that ineffective teacher training is the likely cause of failures in promoting children's physical health in schools. The review of 51 randomised control trials suggests that key ingredients like clear goals, regular feedback, and resources are often missing from teacher training.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateOct 23, 2022

Implicit bias and concern about appearing racist predict teachers’ reluctance to discuss race and racism in the classroom

A new study by Linda Tropp found that teachers' implicit racial biases and concerns about being perceived as racist independently contribute to their lower intentions to discuss race with students. Recent teacher training programs have focused on addressing implicit biases, but not conscious concerns about being seen as racist.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalSocial Psychology of Education·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 25, 2022

Computer games in the classroom: educational success depends on the teacher

A new study by University of Cologne researchers reveals that computer games can significantly boost educational success when used effectively in the classroom. The study found that personal characteristics of pre-service teachers play a crucial role in their intention to adopt digital game-based learning, with perceived effectiveness ...

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalBritish Journal of Educational Technology·TypeSurvey·DateMar 3, 2022