Educational Research for the Future

This review paper reflects on the findings of two major educational texts. These reveal some of the underlying principles that underpin aspects of learning. The two books also shed light on why much educational research today is making minimal impact, in terms of benefiting both teachers and learners. Although the two books start from very different perspectives, there is a considerable overlap in the findings they present, and offer common ground in suggesting ways forward in developing educational research of much higher quality. These books, along with the numerous references cited in them, offer a clear framework for the future. This review paper seeks to summarise some of the key findings, drawing in selected related literature as needed. The findings are relevant for teachers, teacher trainers, researchers as well as education policy-makers.