At ELSA, we are contacted by an increasing number of Educational Psychologists conducting research, often at doctoral level, into the impact of ELSA training, supervision and intervention. Sometimes, we are asked which areas require research. The following are useful to explore:
Impact of ELSA intervention on:
- attainment
- school attendance
- social competence
- self esteem
- pupil attitudes to school
The extent to which training content is reflected in ELSA programmes
The impact of small group supervision on ELSA practice
Fidelity to model across training and supervision providers
We have been fortunate to have been able to commission several (thesis) research projects with Manchester University working with Rebekah Purcell whose research findings can be found on the ‘Other Research’ page. In 2020/21, together with speaking to members of the Steering Group and conducting her own reading, Rebekah identified, apparent, gaps in the research of ELSA. For those who are unsure of which areas of ELSA they wish to explore you may find the document, produced by Rebekah, of use.
Having decided your research project into aspects of ELSA you are invited to contact the website co-ordinator with information about the focus of your research. Contact details should also be included. In this way the ELSA Network can facilitate contact between researchers and help to stimulate further research ideas. You may find it of benefit to join the ELSA Research Group where you can share ideas, papers, etc, by emailing Helena at: helena.rogers@postgrad.manchester.ac.uk
(Information updated on 22/04/24)
Following Purcell’s (2021) initial exploratory study, a study by Helena Rogers, Trainee Educational Psychologist aimed to further develop a conversation with the ELSA steering group about their research needs, to inform an ongoing and coherent programme of research supporting the future development of ELSA. The study gathered qualitative data through a focus group with four members of the ELSA steering group. Participatory data analysis was used to support the conceptualisation of research priorities.
(Information updated 17/08/22)