About the Summer School

Research in education has played an important role in deepening our understanding of learning, teaching, curriculum, and schools. Research in science education has further developed this understanding by drawing on insights from multiple disciplines and conceptual frameworks.

An interdisciplinary perspective is particularly important in appreciating science as a curricular area, as highlighted in the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE 2023).

This introductory summer school aims to familiarise participants with key areas of research in science education through engagement with research articles. Through reading, discussion, and reflection, participants will develop an understanding of how research contributes to deeper insights into teaching and learning science.

The programme will introduce participants to research methodologies and methods through selected research studies and help them reflect on how research perspectives can inform their own work in science education.

This summer school is conceived as the first in a series of engagements, with future programmes exploring research methodologies and methods in greater depth to support participants interested in conducting their own research.

Objectives

The summer school aims to enable participants to:

• Appreciate research studies as systematic approaches to deepen knowledge in science education
• Develop familiarity with key areas of research in science education
• Understand research methodologies and methods through selected research articles
• Reflect on the implications of research perspectives for their own work and practice

Areas of Focus

The programme will introduce participants to key areas of research in science education, including:

1. Learning and cognition in science
2. Meaningful pedagogic practices in the science classroom
3. Nature of science and science education
4. Sociocultural perspectives in science education
    

Each day will include discussions centred on selected research articles, allowing participants to engage with key ideas and approaches in these areas.

Who Should Participate

The programme invites participants working in science education, including:

• School teachers
• Teacher educators
• Members of NGOs working in education
• Early-career researchers interested in science education
   

Participation Process

Those interested in participating are requested to submit a Statement of Purpose (about 500 words) addressing the following:

Identify an area of interest related to the teaching and learning of science. Describe a few questions you would like to explore in this area and explain how you might study them systematically. Reflect on the possible implications of such a study for your current work in science education.

Deadline to submit expression of interest:
 15 April 2026

Participants will hear back regarding their selection by:
 1 May 2026

Selected participants might subsequently be invited to share additional information and materials related to their work in science education.

Logistics

Participants will need to cover the cost of their accommodation (INR 500+tax per day) and breakfast/​dinner, which will be arranged on the university campus. Accommodation will be provided in shared rooms (two participants per room). Limited accommodation is available.

The University will support:

• Travel expenses up to 3‑AC train fare (if required)
• Working lunch during the programme