Schools as learning organisations: A framework to improve research engagement

MARK LESWELL, RESEARCH LEAD, SWALE ACADEMIES TRUST, UK Introduction As the education system in England strives to become more evidence-informed, the role of research engagement in schools has become increasingly important. However, despite growing interest and efforts to include research in decision-making processes, the effectiveness of research use and the evaluation of evidence bases remain questionable. This article explores the current state of research engagement in England, highlighting the challenges and barriers that hinder the effective use of research in schools. To address these issues, the concept of schools as learning organisations (SLOs) is proposed as a potential framework for creating a culture that embraces research engagement. By examining the key dimensions of SLOs and how they align with research engagement principles, insights are offered into how schools can support school improvement through research engagement. Current research engagement in England The g