Transitions in the SEND system: collective research planning through action learning (AoP 1)

Murphy, Anne and Tusting, Karin and Ainsworth, Diane and Lovatt FRSA, Andy and Norburn, Diane (2025) Transitions in the SEND system: collective research planning through action learning (AoP 1). Action Learning: Research and Practice. ISSN 1476-7333

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Abstract

This paper tells the story of how a small group of academics and practitioners worked together using action learning to produce a collectively planned research proposal aimed at addressing challenges in the English special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system. A genuine attempt to try something new, the paper reflects on the pros and cons of taking an approach which tries to balance doing action learning with engaging in research planning. After describing some of the challenges the SEND system faces, the paper focuses on the topic of transitions which emerged as a common theme in the action learning set we established. The paper summarises some of the problems brought to the set by its members, the asynchronous action learning process which evolved over email, the analysis of the textual threads contained in the emails and the emerging research focus on the importance of strategic documents which aim to introduce change. The paper concludes by reflecting on what we have learned from the process focusing especially on the tensions between research and practice.