Developing research skills in the secondary classroom

This course supports secondary teachers to develop students' research skills as a core part of subject learning, helping learners become critical thinkers, independent investigators, and confident communicators. It explores how research goes beyond simply finding information, and how structured research processes can build student agency, deepen understanding, and support high-quality outcomes across the curriculum. Teachers will examine how to plan and embed research skills within lesson objectives, guiding students through both secondary and primary research methods. The course covers sourcing and evaluating information, synthesising evidence, constructing arguments, and analysing quantitative and qualitative data. It also addresses ethical research practices, academic integrity, and the responsible use of AI, alongside strategies for scaffolding and differentiation to support all learners. Key themes include: - Planning research-based learning and enquiry questions - Teaching secondary and primary research methods - Analysing and interpreting data effectively - Embedding ethics, referencing, and academic honesty - Assessing research skills and designing interdisciplinary projects Course outcome: Teachers will be equipped to plan, teach, and assess research skills confidently, enabling students to conduct meaningful research and apply these skills across subjects.