Teachers' professional development in design and technology through action research

Action research offers a means of professional development that has particular relevance to those seeking to improve their teaching of design and technology and gain a better understanding of their practice. There are parallels between the processes involved in action research and in designand technology which can be used to encourage an important metacognitive outcome to such professional development. Curriculum co-ordinators can also carry out action research aimed at improving the support they offer less-confident colleagues, as well as acting as facilitators for their colleagues' own enquiries. The paper outlines a model of inservice education aimed at supporting primary teachers' action research . It is based upon evidence from teachers, including those on DFE approved courses and from a study conducted by the author over several years, involving teachers on inservice activities.