We read and hear a lot of skepticism among teachers for the value of teacher research. Danielle Carnahan and Michele Fitzpatrick have an excellent article in the Spring edition of the Journal of Staff Development that sets out the reasons for using research in education (first, because it can help you be a more effective educator and second, because it is becoming the law) and then seeks to assist educators in using research while allaying their fears about its consequences. The article includes tips on how to understand research terms, how to critically evaluate research, how to find reliable information, and how to translate good research into successful practices. The piece is also loaded with features ranging from useful definitions to a handy explanation of scientific thinking.

This is a must-read for any teacher who wants the best for their students but is a little bit puzzled in the face of the blizzards of competing reports and contradictory scientific claims. Kudos to the National Staff Development Council for publishing such a useful and important article!