Book review: BITE: Recipes for remarkable research (Williams, A., Jones, D. & Robertson, J. (eds., 2014). Sense Publishers)

Abstract

Research plays an integral role in tertiary level teaching and learning. In traditional scholarly disciplines published research adds to the general body of knowledge and enhances the reputation of the educational institution. However, in research focused on teaching and learning the objective is to solve problems and improve professional practices inside the classroom. Either form of research must take place, whether published or unpublished, to prevent stagnation in educational activities. According to Field (2011), educational research is essential for the improvement of education standards; otherwise education runs the risk of being based solely on theory, ideology, convenience and/or prejudice. Many academic institutions require faculty members to be 'research active' as part of the criteria for promotion. This 'publish or perish' syndrome has precipitated some anxiety among teaching faculty who find it difficult to keep up a steady stream of publications; faculty may be retained or promoted (or not) according to the impact factor of journals in which their work is published.