Centre for International, Language and Teacher Education Research Funds Institutional Evaluation Study on Education-Focused Academic Careers at University of St Andrews
The Centre for International, Language and Teacher Education Research (CILTER) is pleased to fund a university-level research project at the University of St Andrews, led by Professor Clare Peddie (Vice-Principal Education/Proctor), Jennifer Taylorson and Professor Paula Miles, examining career development for education-focused academic staff.
This study forms part of the institutional evaluation of Athena Swan, focusing on initiatives introduced since 2021 to enhance support for education-focused academics. The project aims to generate a robust evidence base that will inform future institutional policy, practice, and career development pathways.
About the Study
The research will explore the experiences of education-focused academics at St Andrews in relation to:
- Engagement with CPD opportunities
- Promotion processes and career progression
- Perceptions of recognition and value within the institution
- Experiences of community and professional identity
Participants, restricted to education-focused academic staff at the University, will be invited via email. Data collection will involve an anonymous online survey, alongside optional follow-up interviews or focus groups conducted via Microsoft Teams.
Impact and Significance
The project is expected to deliver impact across multiple dimensions:
- Institutional Impact:
By evaluating current initiatives, the study will identify strengths, gaps, and areas for development in existing support structures. Its findings will directly inform decision-making processes aimed at improving equity, access, and progression opportunities for education-focused staff. - Staff and Community Impact:
The study provides an important platform for academics to share their lived experiences, contributing to greater visibility and recognition of education-focused roles within St Andrews. - Sector-Wide Contribution:
Beyond St Andrews, the research will contribute to the growing body of scholarship on education-focused academic careers and professional identity. It will also generate a case study of institutional practice, offering valuable insights for other universities.
Research Team and Timeline
The project is led by Jennifer Taylorson (IELLI) and Professor Paula Miles (Psychology and Neuroscience), with support from Research Assistant Sandro Eich, who will assist with interviews, data analysis, and the development of research outputs.
The institutional review report is scheduled for completion by 31 August 2026, with further academic outputs, including peer-reviewed publications, planned throughout the 2026/27 academic year.
Expected Outputs
The project will deliver a range of outputs, including:
- An institutional report informing university policy and practice
- An academic journal article (focusing on higher education and professional identity)
- Conference presentation
- An institutional dissemination presentation
This funding decision reflects CILTER’s ongoing commitment to advancing research that supports education-focused academic career pathways. The Centre looks forward to sharing the outcomes of this important work with both institutional and international audiences.