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Commissioning research

How we work:
LSN's research is conducted by a number of different research areas listed below. Each brings a particular set of research skills and expertise to a specific area of interest in education and training. LSN research is characterised by both its wide range and its rigour, from the blue skies research to practical studies of what works on the ground. We bring to bear the full range of research skills - from literature reviews to major longitudinal studies, quantitative research, surveys and major evaluations - all focused on making a difference to education and training.

Commissioning research:
If you would like to talk to LSN about commissioning our team to meet your research needs, please contact:

Mike Cox
Business Development Advisor
Telephone: 020 7492 5132
Email: mcox@LSNeducation.org.uk

We maintain a database of organisations with relevant expertise and experience. If your organisation wishes to be added to the database, please complete the online registration form.

Research Areas:

Demand for Learning Research Centre
This centre researches ways of stimulating demand for learning, widening participation and tackling the problems of educational and social disadvantage. Other key areas are information, advice and guidance, neighbourhood renewal and offender education.

Skills and Evaluation Unit
The unit has a cross agency brief to provide advice and expertise in evaluation methods and innovative evaluation practices across research projects and development programmes.

Personalised Learning Research Centre
Focuses on learning styles, learning support and programme design by seeking to develop understanding of individual learners' needs. This centre is also concerned with inclusive learning and contributes to developing appropriate provision for all types of learners.

Sector Performance
This continuing research focuses on the performance of individual learners and providers of learning, informing strategies to improve learner satisfaction, retention and achievement, and aims to widen participation in education and training.

Teaching, Learning, Curriculum and Qualifications
This centre carries out research relating to changes in the 14-19 curriculum, assessment and qualifications, eg the new diplomas and other vocational programmes. It also researches adult learning and key areas (including entitlement to learning, recognition and assessment of non-accredited learning programmes and developments related to the foundation learning tier), as well as research related to HE in FE. The centre has close links with Foundation Degree Forward and the Higher Education Academy.

Technology Enhanced Learning Research Centre
Explores how learning can be enhanced and learners reached using new technology. It investigates how e-learning and information and communications technology motivate and support learners.

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