This theme group has two overlapping strands:

1.  Research into the professional development and identity of the practitioners with whom we work (students, clients and partners)

This involves a consideration of themes such as:

• concepts of professionalism and professionality in education and the nature of practitioners' roles and identities in complex and changing professional contexts
• the extent to which professional identity is shaped by individual, organisational or political factors
• the nature and process, outcomes and impact of professional development and how the University can provide effective and appropriate support
• relationships between professional development, organisational improvement and systemic change
• new challenges to professionalism e.g. through political and social change

2.  Research into the professional development and identity of ourselves and our colleagues

This involves investigating themes such as:

• the nature of our roles and identities as 'academics' (teachers, researchers, consultants...?) in the changing landscape of Higher Education
• developing reflection and reflexivity in our teaching and research
• how we learn: informal and formal professional development; communities of practice
• the implications of multi-campus activity, new technologies and virtual working
• significant professional relationships and connections; how others see us
• induction and academic career progression 

The Faculty already has considerable expertise in this field. The research theme group provides a forum for drawing together related strands of research and publication, generating further dialogue, developing greater understanding of current theory and examining new evidence that is emerging. The theme group organises group meetings, 'trios' for mutual support, a reading group and the collection of materials, links and publications on Blackboard. This will support our individual and collaborative research endeavours and build capacity and confidence amongst colleagues in generating new knowledge to contribute to the wider education discourse as well as the scholarly activity within the Faculty and University.

Theme leaders

• Judy Durrant
• Peter Grimes

The theme leaders are members of the Department of Professional Development. Judy Durrant is Director of the Masters in Education and is also involved in school development consultancy and evaluation with particular emphasis on action research, teacher leadership and multi-agency working. Her doctoral study is on the role of teachers in changing schools. Peter Grimes is Director of the Masters in Teaching and Learning and is involved in a wide variety of Masters teaching and consultancy with particular interest and expertise in inclusion, leadership and self-evaluation for organisational development locally and internationally. His doctoral study is exploring the transfer of theory across cultures.