In his inaugural Presidential Address, given to the BERA Conference 2013 at the University of Sussex, Ian Menter addresses a number of issues concerning educational policy and the contributions that educational research might make to policy development. As BERA approaches its fortieth anniversary, he also sets out some of the responsibilities that…

Argues that academe is a culture which is characterized by values, goals, and ways of working which are fundamentally at odds with laissez-faire individualism, profit, market-forces, and competition. Asserts that academe cannot be squeezed into conformity with the prevailing conservative political culture which advocates privatization and reduced…

Considers educational values and the constraints placed upon the realization of these values in the workplace. Discusses how the abuse of institutional power undermines the responsibilities accompanying academic freedom. (KO)

Explores the relationship of educational research to political action. Describes three areas of research in education, empirical, reflective, and creative, carried out by those who seek to understand and those who seek to change. Suggests that beyond the personal and the formal dissemination level, more attention is needed at the informal…

Describes the educational research community in Great Britain and the methodological principles of inquiry upon which it is based. Explores the crisis that threatens to undermine the growth and development of Centres of Excellence in educational research. Challenges the British Educational Research Association to develop political strategies as a…

Recognizing tendencies toward contract research and possible consequences, advocates creating a conduct code to regulate educational research and protect its integrity. Reports survey responses from 48 British institutions, showing no systematic code. States confidence in supervisory discretion currently guides research. Proposes a specific code…