Perceptions of the research – practice nexus: a case study of a secondary Post Graduate Certificate in Education course

There is continued debate in the literature about the research-practice nexus, but a lack of agreed understanding relating to the topic remains. This paper aims to generate a greater understanding of how the alleged gap between research and practice was perceived within the context of a single case study of a Post Graduate Certificate in Education course at a university in England.
An interpretative approach was taken, with both Course Leader and student teacher perceptions being explored. Interviews with participants, a lesson observation, and course documents were thematically analysed. This study found that participants perceived both gaps and bridges between the nexus. Gaps related to prioritisation, status differentials, and a perception of formal research being out-of-touch. Links related to participants’ informal research activity and instrumental use of others’ research within practical scenarios. Recommendations include reflection upon values in research, and increased encouragement of positive researcher-teacher working relationships.