Self-Study as a Movement and Methodology for Inside-Out Educational Change: Foundations, Characteristics, and Exemplars

Pithouse-Morgan, Kathleen; Kortjass, Makie; Mkhize-Mthembu, Ntokozo

Abstract

This chapter traces the evolution of the self-study research field since the 1990s, highlighting it as a growing force for change among education practitioners and scholars. It examines the historical backdrop of the field and identifies a set of eight interconnected characteristics through a meta-analysis of existing knowledge about self-study. This set of characteristics is proposed as an adaptable resource that can be revised and expanded. Self-studies focusing on various periods, locations, professional roles, methods, topics, and contexts are described to illustrate aspects of these characteristics. These exemplars show how self-study can contribute to research-informed educational practice by enabling self-reflexive, ethical practitioner inquiry; fostering interactive, inventive professional learning; responding critically to educational policy; and broadening educational knowledge. Overall, the chapter presents self-study as a movement and methodology for educational change from the inside out, starting with practitioners—but going far beyond them. It also emphasizes the value of extending self-study research into and across new contexts and directions.

Citation

Pithouse-Morgan, K., Kortjass, M., & Mkhize-Mthembu, N. Self-Study as a Movement and Methodology for Inside-Out Educational Change: Foundations, Characteristics, and Exemplars. In D. Wyse, V. Baumfield, N. Mockler, & M. Reardon (Eds.), The BERA-SAGE International Handbook of Research-Informed Education Policy and Practice (1-19). SAGE Publications

• Deposit Date: Apr 24, 2024
• Publisher: SAGE Publications
• Pages: 1-19
• Book Title: The BERA-SAGE International Handbook of Research-Informed Education Policy and Practice
• Chapter Number: 15
• ISBN: 9781529602524
• Keywords: self-study research; inside-out educational change; practitioner inquiry; professional practice; qualitative research
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/34102556
• Publisher URL: https://uk.sagepub.com/en-gb/eur/the-bera-sage-handbook-of-research-informed-education-practice-and-policy/book282002
• Contract Date: Feb 27, 2024