Call for WERA-IRN Proposals International Research Networks for the World Education Research Association

The World Education Research Association (WERA) invites proposals to establish International Research Networks (IRNs). The purpose of WERA-IRNs is to advance education research worldwide on specific scholarly topics. IRNs are temporary collaborative groups of scholars working on a specific research topic primarily through virtual communication. IRNs synthesize knowledge, examine the state of research, and stimulate collaborations or otherwise identify promising directions in research areas of worldwide significance. IRNs are expected to produce substantive reports that integrate the state of the knowledge worldwide and set forth promising research directions. Also, WERA-IRNs may present their work at a WERA symposium or keynote session or may meet at a WERA “Focal Meeting” held in cooperation with a WERA member association.

Overview of WERA-IRN Proposals

Proposals to establish International Research Networks may be submitted by scholars interested in the formation of a new research group or by scholars from an existing group. Proposals should set forth the education research topic, the general outline of a plan for researchers with different expertise and backgrounds to work together in primarily virtual space (including through e-mail, electronic media, conference calls, and so forth).

Proposals also need to indicate the outcomes expected from establishing an IRN. In addition to preparing a written product, an IRN could contribute to the development of a research conference, form new collaborations, or help stimulate future research. IRN proposals will typically be submitted by co-organizers with complementary expertise and from different countries or regions of the world. Proposals should set forth a process that would permit other experienced and emerging scholars, including graduate students, to join, once an IRN is selected and announced. The duration of an IRN can vary, with a maximum of 3 years.

Proposal Review and Criteria

Proposals for WERA-IRNs may be submitted all year round. Proposals will be reviewed within 2 months of receipt by the WERA Committee on International Research Networks. The following criteria will guide selection:

  1. The world significance of the proposed research topic (in terms of the nature of the research problem, its worldwide perspectives and the state of the body of knowledge, future developments, etc.);
  2. The track record or previous work of the initial members constituting the group and the group’s potential to grow internationally and regionally;
  3. The feasibility of the plan for interested researchers of diverse expertise working together in primarily virtual space and other conference events across countries and regions and stimulating international collaboration in research; and
  4. The expected outcomes and impacts from the activities of this WERA-IRN in synthesizing knowledge, critically examining the state of research, stimulating collaborations, identifying promising research directions, and so forth.

Once proposals have been reviewed and accepted by the Committee on International Research Networks, WERA-IRNs will be formally announced and their work launched under WERA. In addition to selecting WERA-IRNs, the Committee will also advise WERA-IRNs and foster their inclusivity. WERA-IRNs will be highly recognized by WERA and visible on the WERA website. While IRNs do not receive direct funding, they draw upon and benefit from WERA human and financial resources. On occasion, IRNs may receive support to convene or present at WERA meetings.

Elements of WERA-IRN Proposals

  1. Research Topic/Title of IRN:
  2. Abstract (maximum 150 words):.
  3. Name(s) of Organizer(s):(Name, Affiliation, Position, Address, E-Mail)
  4. Description and Purpose (maximum 1,500 words, excluding any references):
  • Significance of the proposed research topic worldwide
  • Aims and objectives of the WERA-IRN
  • Relevant research literature or initiatives
  • Outreach and process for adding scholars (including emerging scholars and advanced graduate students)
  • Work plan and expected outcomes/scholarly products
  1. Initial Participants List: (Name, Affiliation, Position, Address, E-Mail)
  2. Curriculum Vitae (CVs) as Attachments:(No more than one-page CV for organizer[s] and each initial participant that includes key publications, research, or experiences relevant to the research topic or to leading/participating in such an International Research Network.)

Submissions and Questions

WERA-IRN proposals must be submitted electronically via e-mail to wera@aera.net

Please include the surname(s) of the organizer(s) in the subject line of the e-mail in the format “WERA-IRN Proposal – SURNAME(S).” As noted above, proposals may be submitted at any time and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis.

Questions to the WERA Committee on International Research Networks should also be directed to wera@aera.net