An Introduction to Using Research to Inform Educational Practice

Educators are increasingly looking to use research evidence to support their practice. This course is designed for teachers, school leaders and education system actors who are beginning to use research in their work.

Through a 15-hour online short course, participants will develop their knowledge, skills and confidence in finding, evaluating and using research evidence. The course consists of self-paced learning modules, videos, resources and activities, including practical case studies from Australian teachers. The program includes the Quality Use of Research Evidence (QURE) Assessment Tool which enables individuals or groups to reflect on their use of research in their practice and provides tailored resources and practical supports for future improvement.

Developed by the Monash Q Project, a five-year investigation in partnership with the Paul Ramsay Foundation to understand and improve the use of research in Australian schools, the professional learning program was co-designed and trialled by teachers and other education stakeholders from across Australia.

Topics covered

Module 1: Understanding the purpose and context of research use
Module 2: Understanding research quality and types
Module 3: Accessing quality research
Module 4: Appraising research for rigour and relevance
Module 5: Engaging with and implementing research well

Duration

Self-directed learning: 15 hours over 5 Modules

2026 Fee

$650 incl GST

Prerequisites

This course is open to in-service teachers and school leaders from across Australia (e.g., instructional leaders, principals) from all school types, along with system leaders.

Assessment

There is no assessment associated with this program.

Recognition

This course has been designed to meet the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers 1.2, 6.2 and 6.3 at the Highly Accomplished and Lead teacher Level.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to complete this course?

You have 12 months from the date of your registration to complete this program.

Is there a specific program start date, and are there any live classes?

No, this program is conducted via self-paced online learning on our Learning Management System, so there are no live lectures or scheduled class times - you can register into this program at any stage and complete the course online at times/days that suit you and at your own pace.

Once I have registered, when will I get access to the course?

You will receive access to the Learning Management System on the same or next business day. Please note that if you register on a weekend or public holiday, you will not receive access until the next business day.

My organisation would like to pay for my registration in this course via tax invoice. How do I go about organising this?

Please email us at edu.pdp@monash.edu advising us that your organisation would like to pay for your registration via tax invoice. We will email you an application form to fill in, and you will need to complete this and return it back to us with a copy of a purchase order from your organisation for the course fees. We can then complete your enrolment and organise a tax invoice.

What if the course is blocked by a firewall at my school?

Some Queensland participants may find that their access to the Learning Management System is blocked by the Department of Education firewalls. However, you will still be able to access the course using your own device outside of school.