10 research topics in education

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List of education research paper topics

Education research paper topics refer to a wide range of subjects that students can explore in the field of education. Here is a list of topics for your inspiration:

Impact of Online Learning on Student Engagement and Academic Performance
Effectiveness of Project-Based Learning in Promoting Critical Thinking Skills
Socioeconomic Status and Access to Quality Education
Virtual and Augmented Reality in Enhancing the Learning Experience
Role of Teacher Expectations in Shaping Student Outcomes
Peer Mentoring Programs in Supporting Student Success
Classroom Design and Student Learning Outcomes
Technology-Assisted Language Learning in Second Language Acquisition
Differentiated Instruction in Meeting Diverse Student Needs
Cultural Competence in Teacher Effectiveness and Student Achievement
Teacher-Student Relationships and Student Motivation
Mindfulness Practices in Promoting Student Well-Being and Academic Achievement
Teacher Professional Development and Instructional Quality
Community Partnerships in Improving Educational Opportunities and Outcomes
Inquiry-Based Learning in Promoting Scientific Literacy
Experiential Learning Methods
Parental Involvement and Student Success
Early Childhood Education Outcomes
Class Size and Academic Performance
Motivation and Academic Performance
School Climate and Academic Performance
Collaborative Learning Approaches
Cultural Competence and Academic Achievement
Early Literacy Instruction and Future Reading Success
Gender Disparities in Stem Academic Performance

Higher education research paper topics

This subtopic explores the impact of higher education on career prospects, the cost and affordability of college, the effectiveness of online learning, and the benefits of international study programs. Conducting research on these topics can lead to a better understanding of higher education and help achieve positive outcomes.

Examining the Relationship between Online Learning and Student
Engagement and Academic Performance in Higher Education
The Effectiveness of Technology in Advancing Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education
Mental Health Consequences of Student Loan Debt: A Study
Cultural Backgrounds and Their Influence on Students' Academic Experiences and Outcomes in Higher Education
Evaluating the Impact of Mindfulness-Based Programs on Reducing Stress and Enhancing Academic Performance in College Students
Assessing the Role of Faculty Diversity in Improving Student Learning and Success in Higher Education
Student Engagement and Retention Rates in Higher Education: A Correlation Analysis
The Preparedness of Competency-Based Education Programs for the Workforce
The Continuing Impact of COVID-19 on Higher Education and Its Future Prospects
The Contribution of Student Support Services to Academic Success and Graduation Rates in Higher Education

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Special education research topics

Assistive Technology for Academic Success
Inclusive Education Best Practices
Parent Involvement for Disability Outcomes
Differentiated Instruction for Disabled Students
Early Intervention for Young Learners
Positive Behavior Interventions for Disabilities
Co-teaching Models for Disabled Students
Teacher Attitudes Towards Disabilities
Peer Mentoring for Emotional Development
Vocational Training for Disabled Employment
Individualized Education Programs and Outcomes
Reading Interventions for Learning Disabilities
Social Skills Training for Disabilities
Paraeducators’ Support for Disabled Students
Self-Determination for Independent Living Skills
Peer Support Groups for Emotional Outcomes
Assistive Tech for Extracurricular Activities
Mindfulness Interventions for Self-Regulation
Collaborative Problem-Solving for Disabilities
Physical Activity for Emotional Well-Being
Inclusive Education for Students with special needs

Educational research topics on child development

This topic covers a broad range of research topics, including the effects of nature and nurture on child development, the impact of early childhood experiences on later development, the role of play in learning, and the influence of family and cultural factors on child development.

Play and Learning in Early Childhood Development
Mindfulness and Its Role in Promoting Child Development
Nature Exposure and Children’s Cognitive Development
Art Education for Child Development
Family Dynamics Impact on Child Development
The Effect of Trauma on Child Development
Bilingualism and Cognitive Development in Children
Creativity for Early Childhood Development
Socioeconomic Status and Child Development
Peer Mentoring for Child Development
How Motor Skills Affect Children’s Academic Success?
The Impact of Parent-Child Communication on Child Development
Attachment and Self-Esteem Development in Children
The Influence of Childcare Settings on Child Development
Outdoor Play’s Relationship to Child Development
Social Media and Adolescent Development
Importance of Empathy for Child Development
Culture and Gender Identity Development in Children
The Importance of Resilience for Child Development
Role of Executive Functioning in Social Skills Development

Educational research topics for college students

Effects of Technology on Student Learning Outcomes in Higher Education
A Comparative Study on Student Engagement and Achievement in Online Versus Traditional Classroom Instruction
Teacher Feedback and Its Impact on Student Performance
Parent Involvement and Its Influence on Student Academic Achievement
Correlational Study on Sleep Habits and Academic Performance Among College Students
Comparison of Different Study Techniques and Strategies for College Students
Cultural Diversity in the Classroom and Its Effects on Student Learning
Investigating the Relationship Between Student Motivation and Academic Performance
Teaching Methodologies and Student Achievement in Stem Fields
Impact of Teacher Expectations on Student Academic Achievement
Comparative Study on Gender and Academic Performance in Different Subject Areas
Extracurricular Activities and Academic Achievement: Examining the Relationship
Effects of Peer-To-Peer Learning on Student Academic Performance
The Impact of College Entrance Exams on Student Academic Performance
Exploring the Relationship Between Social Media Use and Academic Performance Among College Students
A Comparative Study on the Impact of Active Versus Passive Learning Approaches on Student Academic Performance
Examining the Impact of Teacher Training on Student Academic Achievement
The Effects of Teacher Burnout on Student Academic Achievement
Different Types of Assessments and Their Effects on Student Academic Performance
The Relationship Between College Students’ Study Habits and Academic Performance

Latest research topics in education

How Can Technology Be Used to Enhance Student Learning in the Classroom?
What Are the Benefits and Challenges of Homeschooling as a Form of Education?
How Does the Use of Social Media Affect Student Engagement and Academic Performance?
What Is the Impact of Teacher-Student Relationships on Student Motivation and Achievement?
How Can Cultural Diversity Be Effectively Incorporated Into the Classroom to Promote Learning and Understanding?
What Are the Best Strategies for Promoting Effective Reading Skills in Students of All Ages?
How Can Project-Based Learning Be Used to Promote Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills in Students?
What Are the Most Effective Ways to Promote Student Creativity and Innovation in the Classroom?
How Does Teacher Feedback and Assessment Impact Student Learning and Academic Success?
What Are the Benefits and Challenges of Online Learning in Higher Education?
How Can Differentiated Instruction Be Used to Meet the Needs of Diverse Learners in the Classroom?
What Is the Impact of Parental Involvement on Student Academic Achievement?
How Can Schools Promote Positive Mental Health and Well-Being in Students?
What Is the Role of Experiential Learning in Promoting Student Engagement and Learning Outcomes?
What Are the Best Strategies for Promoting Effective Writing Skills in Students of All Ages?
How Can Schools Effectively Address and Prevent Bullying and Cyberbullying?
What Is the Impact of Student-Teacher Ratio on Student Academic Achievement?
How Can Schools Promote Effective Collaboration and Teamwork Skills in Students?
What Are the Benefits and Challenges of Competency-Based Education in Higher Education?
How Can Schools Effectively Support and Accommodate Students With Disabilities?

Topics for action research in education

Discover how to make a positive difference in the world of education through innovative and effective action research. Learn about topics for action research that are relevant to current educational practices and trends. Get started on making your mark through thoughtful exploration of educational topics for action research!

The Impact of Project-Based Learning on Student Achievement
Strategies to Increase Student Engagement Through Technology Integration
Methods to Improve Reading Comprehension in Elementary School Students
Addressing Absenteeism Among High School Students
Effective Strategies for Promoting Collaborative Learning
Developing Critical Thinking Skills in Middle School Students
Improving Teacher-Student Relationships to Enhance Student Learning
Mindfulness Practices to Reduce Student Anxiety
Examining the Effectiveness of Differentiated Instruction on Student Learning Outcomes
Investigating the Effects of Physical Activity on Academic Achievement
Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices to Meet the Needs of Diverse Students
Investigating the Effects of Class Size on Student Achievement
Strategies to Improve Parent Involvement in the Education Process to Support Student Success
Examining the Effects of Music Education on Academic Achievement
Effective Strategies for Teaching English Language Learners
Investigating the Effects of School Uniforms on Student Behavior
Promoting Positive Behavior in the Classroom Through Positive Reinforcement
Addressing Academic Stress Among High School Students
Strategies to Address Student Learning Gaps Caused by Pandemic-Related Disruptions
The Impact of Teacher Professional Development on Student Learning Outcomes

Provocative education research topics

Research into education is groundbreaking, with new discoveries and ideas being created every day. This list of provocative research topics focuses on the most timely and important questions in education today. From educational technology to teaching methods and beyond, these questions are sure to spark intriguing conversations and novel insights.

How Does the Use of Technology in the Classroom Impact Student Learning Outcomes?
To What Extent Does Parental Involvement Affect Academic Performance?
In What Ways Does Teacher Diversity Influence Student Success?
What Are the Benefits and Challenges of Multilingual Education in the Classroom?
How Does Social Media Use Affect Student Learning and Academic Achievement?
What Are the Strengths and Weaknesses of Standardized Testing in Measuring Student Learning?
What Is the Relationship Between Classroom Environment and Academic Achievement?
How Does Project-Based Learning Develop Critical Thinking Skills in Students?
What Is the Correlation Between Mental Health and Academic Performance?
How Effective Is Differentiated Instruction in Promoting Student Engagement?
What Is the Impact of Professional Development on Teacher Efficacy and Student Learning Outcomes?
How Does Collaborative Learning Impact Student Academic Achievement?
What Is the Role of School Culture in Promoting Academic Success?
How Can Education Promote Equity and Social Justice in the Classroom?
How Does Online Learning Compare to Traditional Classroom Learning in Developing Student Competencies?
What Is the Correlation Between Parenting Styles and Student Academic Success?
How Do Gender and Cultural Differences Impact Learning Styles and Academic Achievement?
What Is the Relationship Between Extracurricular Activities and Academic Success?
How Effective Is Personalized Learning in Fostering Student Motivation and Engagement?
What Is the Long-Term Impact of Early Childhood Education on Academic Achievement and Success?

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How to choose a good topic on education subject

Choosing a good topic on education is essential for engaging your audience and making an impact. To do this successfully, consider the following steps:

Determine your passions: contemplate the facets of education that captivate and inspire you the most.
Know your audience: be mindful of the readers or viewers of your work, and consider their interests and preferences.
Explore contemporary trends and concerns: investigate recent developments, tendencies, technologies, approaches, policies, and research within education that are currently influencing the field.
Uncover knowledge voids: pinpoint areas within education where research or comprehension is lacking, and choose a subject that addresses these deficiencies while contributing to the broader field.
Consult with experts: engage with teachers, professors, or other industry professionals to gather insights on potential subjects - they may even provide helpful recommendations or direct you to valuable resources!

Choosing the right research topic is vital for students in the field of education. Staying informed about current trends and developments is key. This article provides a diverse list of top education research paper topics, allowing students to select an intriguing idea that aligns with their interests and goals. To save time and effort, you can choose to pay for papers , guaranteeing expertly crafted research papers while you concentrate on your academic goals.

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Educational research topics: navigating the path to knowledge and innovation.

10 Best Educational Research Topics | Future Education Magazine

Educational research is the cornerstone of progress in the field of education. It catalyzes change, informing pedagogical practices, shaping policies, and addressing the diverse needs of learners. The exploration of educational research topics is a journey into the intricacies of teaching and learning, revealing insights that contribute to the ongoing evolution of educational systems worldwide.

The Significance of Educational Research

Educational research is a systematic inquiry into various aspects of the educational process. It aims to deepen our understanding of how students learn, the effectiveness of teaching methods, and the impact of educational policies. This knowledge, derived from rigorous research, empowers educators, policymakers, and stakeholders to make informed decisions that shape the trajectory of education.

Here are 10 Diverse Educational Research Topics:

1. technology integration in education.

Exploring the impact of digital tools, online platforms, and interactive technologies on teaching and learning. Investigating the effectiveness of blended learning models and the implications of artificial intelligence in education.

2. Inclusive Education

Examining strategies for creating inclusive classrooms that cater to students with diverse learning needs. Assessing the impact of inclusive practices on student achievement and well-being.

3. Student Motivation and Engagement

Educational Research Topics helps Investigate factors that influence student motivation and engagement in the learning process. Exploring the role of intrinsic and extrinsic motivators in fostering a positive learning environment.

4. Assessment and Evaluation Practices

Examining the effectiveness of traditional and alternative assessment methods in gauging student understanding. Investigating strategies for fair and equitable evaluation, considering diverse learning styles.

5 . Teacher Professional Development

Researching the impact of professional development programs on teacher effectiveness. Exploring innovative approaches to continuous learning for educators.

6. Early Childhood Education

Investigating the long-term effects of early childhood education on cognitive and social development. Exploring effective teaching methods for young learners.

7 . Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Examining the role of SEL in enhancing student well-being and academic success. Investigating the impact of SEL programs on school climate and community dynamics.

8 . Online and Distance Learning

Exploring the challenges and opportunities associated with online and distance learning. Assessing the effectiveness of virtual classrooms and the accessibility of online education. Researching various Educational Research Topics may result in more understanding

9. Educational Leadership and Administration

Investigating the qualities and practices of effective educational leaders. Exploring the impact of leadership on school culture, teacher morale, and student outcomes.

10 . Global and Comparative Education

Comparing educational systems across different countries and cultures. Examining the role of education in addressing global challenges and fostering international collaboration.

Emerging Trends in Educational Research

1 . neuroeducation.

Investigating the intersection of neuroscience and education to understand how the brain learns. Exploring the implications of neuroscientific findings for instructional practices.

2. Environmental Education

Examining the integration of environmental education into curricula. Investigating the Educational Research Topics like the impact of eco-friendly practices and outdoor learning on students’ environmental consciousness.

3 . Data-Driven Decision Making

Exploring the use of data analytics to inform educational decision-making. Assessing the ethical considerations of data use in education.

4 . Equity and Inclusion

Research strategies to address educational disparities based on race, socio-economic status, and other factors. Investigating the impact of inclusive practices on overall student success.

Challenges and Opportunities in Educational Research

Challenges:.

Funding Constraints: Limited financial resources can hinder the scope and depth of educational research initiatives.
Ethical Considerations: Ensuring ethical research practices, especially with vulnerable populations, presents ongoing challenges.
Implementation Gap : Bridging the divide between research findings and practical implementation in classrooms remains a persistent challenge.

Opportunities:

Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Opportunities for collaboration between educators, researchers, and experts from diverse fields can lead to holistic insights.
Technology Integration : Leveraging technological advancements can enhance data collection, analysis, and the dissemination of research findings.
Global Collaboration: International collaboration provides opportunities to study educational systems in varied cultural contexts, fostering a broader understanding of effective practices.

Educational research is a dynamic and multifaceted endeavor, delving into an array of topics that collectively shape the future of education. From the integration of technology to the exploration of global education systems, researchers play a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of effective teaching and learning practices.

As we navigate the vast landscape of educational research topics, it becomes clear that the quest for knowledge is both a challenge and an opportunity. The challenges of funding constraints, ethical considerations, and the implementation gap are met with opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, technological integration, and global cooperation.

In essence, educational research topics are the driving force behind innovation in education. It empowers educators with evidence-based practices, guides policymakers in shaping effective policies, and ultimately enriches the learning experiences of students worldwide. As researchers continue to explore new frontiers and address persistent challenges, the collective efforts in educational research pave the way for a more inclusive, equitable, and transformative education system.

Also Read: Multiple Intelligences: What Does the Research Say?

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Home » 500+ Educational Research Topics

500+ Educational Research Topics

Education is a fundamental human right that plays a vital role in shaping the future of individuals, communities, and societies. In order to improve the effectiveness of education, it is crucial to engage in rigorous educational research that seeks to understand how people learn, what factors influence their learning outcomes, and how educational systems can be designed to promote equitable access and success for all learners. Educational research topics cover a wide range of issues, from exploring new teaching methods to examining the impact of technology on learning. In this blog post, we will delve into some of the most important and relevant educational research topics, highlighting their significance and potential impact on the field of education.

Educational Research Topics

Educational Research Topics are as follows:

The effects of personalized learning on student academic achievement
The impact of teacher expectations on student achievement
The effectiveness of flipped classroom models on student engagement and learning outcomes
The impact of classroom design on student behavior and learning
The relationship between socio-economic status and student academic achievement
The effectiveness of differentiated instruction on student academic achievement
The impact of technology on student learning outcomes
The effectiveness of online learning versus traditional classroom instruction
The influence of teacher expectations on student achievement
The role of parental involvement in student success
The relationship between school culture and student engagement
The impact of teacher training on student achievement
The effectiveness of peer tutoring programs
The relationship between socioeconomic status and academic achievement
The effectiveness of project-based learning
The impact of standardized testing on student motivation and achievement
The role of homework in student learning
The relationship between teacher-student rapport and academic achievement
The effectiveness of differentiated instruction
The relationship between student self-esteem and academic achievement
The impact of school size on student achievement
The role of school discipline policies in student behavior and achievement
The effectiveness of character education programs
The relationship between school funding and student achievement
The impact of school start times on student achievement
The effectiveness of arts education programs
The relationship between teacher feedback and student learning
The impact of school climate on student achievement
The effectiveness of online assessment tools
The relationship between teacher expectations and student behavior
The impact of school resources on student achievement
The effectiveness of teacher collaboration
The relationship between student motivation and academic achievement
The impact of class size on student achievement
The role of student-teacher trust in academic achievement
The effectiveness of student-led conferences
The relationship between student self-efficacy and academic achievement
The impact of school culture on teacher job satisfaction
The effectiveness of inquiry-based learning
The relationship between teacher stress and student achievement
The impact of school safety measures on student achievement
The effectiveness of flipped classroom instruction
The relationship between teacher diversity and student achievement
The impact of technology integration on teacher job satisfaction
The effectiveness of project-based assessment
The relationship between school climate and teacher job satisfaction
The impact of teacher job satisfaction on student achievement
The effectiveness of service-learning programs
The relationship between school leadership and teacher job satisfaction
The impact of parent-teacher communication on student achievement
The effectiveness of online professional development for teachers
The relationship between student engagement and teacher job satisfaction
The impact of peer mentoring programs on student achievement
The effectiveness of cooperative learning
The relationship between teacher-student ethnicity match and student achievement
The impact of school discipline policies on teacher job satisfaction
The relationship between teacher quality and student academic achievement
The effectiveness of technology integration in the classroom
The impact of parent involvement on student academic achievement
The relationship between teacher leadership and student academic achievement
The effectiveness of peer tutoring on student academic achievement
The impact of class size on student academic achievement
The effectiveness of project-based learning on student academic achievement
The impact of teacher diversity on student academic achievement
The relationship between student engagement and academic achievement
The effectiveness of student-centered learning on academic achievement
The impact of teacher-student relationships on academic achievement
The relationship between homework and academic achievement
The effectiveness of cooperative learning on academic achievement
The impact of school culture on academic achievement
The relationship between teacher collaboration and academic achievement
The effectiveness of online learning on academic achievement
The impact of standardized testing on student academic achievement
The relationship between teacher burnout and student academic achievement
The effectiveness of mindfulness interventions on student academic achievement
The impact of cultural competency on student academic achievement
The relationship between teacher job satisfaction and student academic achievement
The effectiveness of social-emotional learning on academic achievement
The impact of parent-teacher communication on academic achievement
The relationship between student-teacher relationships and academic achievement
The effectiveness of inquiry-based learning on academic achievement
The impact of learning environment on academic achievement
The relationship between student attendance and academic achievement
The effectiveness of feedback on academic achievement
The impact of teacher expectations on student behavior
The relationship between teacher training and academic achievement
The effectiveness of teacher professional development on academic achievement
The impact of teacher beliefs on student academic achievement
The relationship between classroom management and academic achievement
The effectiveness of bilingual education on academic achievement
The impact of cultural background on academic achievement
The relationship between teacher turnover and academic achievement
The effectiveness of tutoring programs on academic achievement
The impact of teacher salaries on academic achievement
The relationship between teacher-student racial matching and academic achievement
The effectiveness of college preparatory programs on academic achievement
The impact of high-stakes testing on academic achievement
The relationship between student well-being and academic achievement
The effectiveness of service learning on academic achievement.
The effects of technology on student learning outcomes.
The relationship between parental involvement and student achievement.
The impact of teacher feedback on student motivation and learning.
The effectiveness of online learning compared to traditional classroom instruction.
The role of emotional intelligence in academic success.
The relationship between sleep and academic performance.
The effectiveness of peer tutoring on student achievement.
The impact of early childhood education on later academic success.
The effects of social media on academic performance and well-being.
The impact of teacher expectations on student achievement.
The effectiveness of differentiated instruction on student learning outcomes.
The relationship between teacher burnout and student performance.
The effectiveness of inclusive education for students with disabilities.
The impact of teacher training and professional development on student outcomes.
The effects of school culture and climate on student engagement and achievement.
The relationship between homework and student achievement.
The effectiveness of gamification in education.
The impact of nutrition on student academic performance.
The effects of gender on academic achievement and attitudes towards learning.
The effectiveness of project-based learning on student engagement and learning outcomes.
The relationship between school attendance and academic performance.
The impact of teacher-student relationships on academic achievement and well-being.
The effectiveness of cooperative learning on student learning outcomes.
The effects of parental involvement in homework on student achievement.
The relationship between student engagement and academic performance.
The impact of classroom size on student learning outcomes.
The effectiveness of feedback in online learning environments.
The effects of poverty on student academic achievement.
The relationship between student motivation and academic achievement.
The impact of school leadership on student outcomes.
The effectiveness of formative assessment on student learning outcomes.
The effects of school funding on student achievement.
The relationship between student self-regulation and academic performance.
The impact of cultural diversity on academic achievement and student attitudes towards learning.
The effectiveness of technology integration in the classroom.
The effects of teacher diversity on student achievement and attitudes towards learning.
The relationship between teacher expectations and student engagement.
The impact of school policies on student academic performance and behavior.
The effectiveness of metacognitive strategies on student learning outcomes.
The effects of parental involvement on student behavior and well-being.
The relationship between teacher collaboration and student achievement.
The impact of school transitions on student academic performance and well-being.
The effectiveness of inquiry-based learning on student engagement and learning outcomes.
The effects of standardized testing on student motivation and learning.
The relationship between student self-efficacy and academic performance.
The impact of cultural competency training on teacher attitudes and student outcomes.
The effectiveness of blended learning on student achievement and engagement.
The effects of teacher beliefs and attitudes on student outcomes.
The relationship between student achievement and post-secondary success.
The impact of extracurricular activities on student academic performance and well-being.
The effectiveness of flipped classroom models in higher education
The relationship between teacher-student rapport and academic performance
The effects of parental involvement on student achievement
The effectiveness of differentiated instruction in mixed-ability classrooms
The impact of teacher collaboration on student learning outcomes
The effectiveness of project-based learning in K-12 education
The relationship between classroom climate and student motivation
The effects of social media use on academic performance
The impact of inclusive education on students with disabilities
The effectiveness of online learning in higher education
The relationship between school size and academic achievement
The effects of school uniforms on student behavior and academic performance
The impact of student-centered learning on student achievement
The effectiveness of cooperative learning in K-12 education
The relationship between teacher expectations and student achievement
The effects of school funding on student achievement
The impact of teacher training on student outcomes
The effectiveness of peer tutoring in K-12 education
The effects of class size on student achievement
The impact of bilingual education on student outcomes
The effectiveness of gamification in education
The relationship between standardized testing and student achievement
The effects of homework on student achievement
The impact of parental involvement on college retention rates
The effectiveness of problem-based learning in K-12 education
The effects of teacher feedback on student learning outcomes
The impact of school discipline policies on student behavior and academic performance
The effectiveness of computer-assisted instruction in K-12 education
The relationship between teacher burnout and student outcomes
The effects of teacher-student racial/ethnic matching on academic performance
The impact of extracurricular activities on student achievement
The effectiveness of blended learning in higher education
The relationship between school leadership and student achievement
The effects of parental involvement on student attendance
The impact of peer influence on student achievement
The effectiveness of outdoor learning in K-12 education
The relationship between teacher autonomy and student outcomes
The effects of teacher diversity on student achievement
The impact of early childhood education on later academic achievement
The effectiveness of mindfulness practices in education
The relationship between teacher evaluation and student achievement
The effects of student self-assessment on learning outcomes
The impact of cultural competence on teacher-student relationships and academic performance
The effectiveness of online discussion forums in higher education
The relationship between school climate and student mental health
The effects of student-teacher race/ethnicity matching on academic performance
The impact of college majors on post-graduation outcomes.
The impact of technology on student engagement and academic performance
The effectiveness of project-based learning compared to traditional teaching methods
The impact of school uniforms on student behavior and academic performance
The relationship between teacher diversity and student outcomes
The effectiveness of peer mentoring for at-risk students
The impact of school funding on student achievement
The relationship between parent-teacher communication and student success
The effectiveness of social media for educational purposes
The impact of inclusive education on academic achievement
The effectiveness of teacher mentoring programs for new teachers
The relationship between school funding and student outcomes
The impact of teacher diversity on student achievement
The effectiveness of using games in the classroom for learning
The impact of teacher collaboration on teacher retention
The effectiveness of using graphic novels in the classroom for literacy development
The impact of standardized testing on student motivation and performance
The effectiveness of teacher coaching on teacher practice and student learning
The relationship between parent-teacher communication and student outcomes
The impact of peer mentoring on academic achievement
The effectiveness of teacher professional learning communities on student outcomes
The relationship between teacher personality and classroom climate
The impact of arts education on student creativity and academic achievement
The effectiveness of technology in teaching math
The relationship between teacher autonomy and teacher motivation
The impact of student-led conferences on parent involvement and academic performance
The effectiveness of differentiated instruction for gifted and talented students
The relationship between school discipline policies and student mental health
The impact of teacher leadership on school improvement
The effectiveness of using social media in education
The relationship between teacher beliefs and teacher effectiveness
The impact of school size on student outcomes
The effectiveness of using simulations in the classroom for learning
The relationship between parent involvement and teacher satisfaction
The impact of outdoor education on student learning and development
The effectiveness of using digital portfolios in the classroom for assessment
The relationship between teacher collaboration and teacher professional growth
The effectiveness of using multimedia in the classroom for learning
The relationship between school choice and student achievement
The impact of teacher empathy on student motivation and engagement
The effectiveness of using mindfulness practices in the classroom
The relationship between teacher creativity and student engagement
The impact of student ownership on academic performance
The effectiveness of using project-based learning in science education
The relationship between teacher job satisfaction and teacher retention
The impact of using drama in the classroom for learning
The effectiveness of using educational apps in the classroom
The relationship between teacher feedback and student achievement
The impact of peer assessment on student learning
The effectiveness of using simulations in social studies education
The impact of teacher-parent partnerships on student outcomes
The effectiveness of using podcasts in the classroom for learning
The relationship between teacher collaboration and teacher well-being
The impact of school culture on parent involvement
The effectiveness of using debate in the classroom for critical thinking skills.
The impact of teacher-student ratio on academic performance
The effectiveness of outdoor education on student learning
The impact of teacher gender on student engagement and achievement
The relationship between teacher feedback and student self-efficacy
The effectiveness of blended learning for language education
The impact of teacher-student relationships on student attendance
The relationship between teacher diversity and school culture
The effectiveness of cultural responsiveness in the classroom
The impact of school choice on student outcomes
The relationship between classroom design and student engagement
The effectiveness of differentiated instruction for gifted students
The impact of student mobility on academic achievement
The relationship between teacher experience and classroom management
The effectiveness of technology in teaching mathematics
The impact of teacher burnout on student performance
The relationship between teacher job satisfaction and student outcomes
The effectiveness of arts education on student development
The impact of standardized testing on student motivation and academic performance
The relationship between teacher-student trust and academic achievement
The effectiveness of online learning for adult education
The impact of school culture on teacher retention
The relationship between student motivation and academic success
The effectiveness of game-based learning for science education
The impact of teacher training on student outcomes in special education
The relationship between teacher beliefs and classroom management
The effectiveness of project-based learning for social studies education
The impact of school leadership on teacher job satisfaction
The relationship between teacher support and student mental health
The effectiveness of experiential learning for environmental education
The impact of teacher collaboration on student outcomes
The relationship between school climate and student achievement
The effectiveness of technology in teaching foreign languages
The impact of teacher evaluation on instructional quality
The relationship between school diversity and student achievement
The effectiveness of multicultural education for promoting social justice
The impact of teacher-student relationships on student self-esteem
The relationship between teacher turnover and student outcomes
The effectiveness of inquiry-based learning for mathematics education
The impact of school discipline policies on student behavior
The relationship between teacher expectations and student engagement
The effectiveness of technology in teaching literacy
The impact of teacher autonomy on classroom innovation
The relationship between school climate and teacher job satisfaction.
The relationship between classroom size and student achievement
The impact of school leadership on student outcomes
The effectiveness of different types of assessment methods
The influence of teacher attitudes on student motivation and engagement
The relationship between parental involvement and student achievement
The effectiveness of different teaching strategies for diverse learners
The impact of early childhood education on academic success
The relationship between teacher training and student outcomes
The effectiveness of different types of feedback on student learning
The impact of student-centered learning on academic performance
The effectiveness of differentiated instruction for diverse learners
The impact of teacher-student relationships on academic success
The relationship between school culture and student outcomes
The effectiveness of flipped classrooms compared to traditional classrooms
The impact of classroom management on student behavior and academic performance
The effectiveness of peer tutoring on student learning
The impact of parental involvement on student behavior and social-emotional development
The effectiveness of co-teaching for students with disabilities
The impact of bilingual education on academic achievement
The relationship between teacher beliefs and student achievement
The effectiveness of online learning compared to traditional classroom instruction
The impact of school culture on teacher satisfaction and retention
The relationship between teacher experience and student achievement
The effectiveness of technology-enhanced learning environments
The impact of teacher-student race/ethnicity matching on academic performance
The effectiveness of inquiry-based learning for science education
The relationship between school discipline policies and student outcomes
The effectiveness of teacher professional development on student learning
The impact of teacher preparation programs on teacher effectiveness
The relationship between classroom climate and student engagement
The effectiveness of teacher collaboration on student learning
The impact of social-emotional learning on academic performance
The relationship between teacher motivation and student achievement
The effectiveness of technology in teaching English as a second language
The impact of teacher autonomy on student outcomes
The relationship between teacher feedback and student motivation
The effectiveness of self-regulated learning strategies for academic success
The impact of single-sex education on student achievement
The relationship between teacher personality and student engagement
The effectiveness of experiential learning for history education
The impact of teacher-student relationships on student mental health
The relationship between school safety and student outcomes
The effectiveness of mindfulness practices on student behavior and academic performance.
The impact of technology on classroom learning
The effectiveness of differentiated instruction in diverse classrooms
The relationship between teacher burnout and student achievement
The impact of teacher-student relationships on academic performance
The effectiveness of teacher professional development on instructional practice
The effectiveness of online learning during the pandemic
The impact of teacher burnout on student achievement
The effectiveness of early childhood education programs
The impact of parental involvement on student success
The relationship between teacher expectations and student performance
The impact of school safety measures on student well-being
The relationship between school culture and teacher satisfaction
The effectiveness of using manipulatives in math education
The impact of homework on student achievement
The relationship between teacher preparation programs and teacher retention
The effectiveness of using technology for literacy development
The impact of social-emotional learning programs on student behavior and academic achievement
The relationship between school leadership and teacher morale
The effectiveness of using virtual reality in science education
The impact of teacher gender on student achievement
The relationship between parental involvement and student motivation
The effectiveness of project-based learning in social studies education
The impact of school climate on student attendance
The relationship between teacher experience and student outcomes
The effectiveness of using game-based learning in language arts education
The relationship between school funding and teacher quality
The effectiveness of using inquiry-based learning in science education
The impact of teacher expectations on student motivation
The relationship between school facilities and student achievement
The effectiveness of using music in the classroom for learning
The impact of teacher diversity on student outcomes
The effectiveness of using graphic organizers in the classroom for writing
The impact of teacher evaluation systems on teacher performance
The relationship between school size and student achievement
The effectiveness of using digital storytelling in the classroom
The impact of teacher feedback on student learning
The relationship between teacher professional development and student outcomes
The effectiveness of using problem-based learning in math education
The impact of school discipline policies on student outcomes
The relationship between teacher expectations and student self-esteem
The effectiveness of using visual aids in the classroom for learning
The impact of school culture on teacher collaboration
The relationship between school climate and student behavior
The effectiveness of using drama in language arts education
The impact of teacher motivation on student engagement
The relationship between school culture and student academic identity
The effectiveness of using mobile devices in the classroom for learning
The relationship between school climate and teacher retention
The effectiveness of using games for social-emotional learning
The impact of teacher-student racial matching on student achievement.
The relationship between parental involvement and academic achievement
The impact of inclusive education on social and emotional development
The effectiveness of blended learning on student outcomes
The impact of school culture on student behavior and attitudes
The effectiveness of flipped classroom models on student engagement
The relationship between teacher autonomy and student motivation
The impact of bilingual education on cognitive development
The effectiveness of cooperative learning strategies in the classroom
The effectiveness of classroom management strategies on student behavior
The impact of standardized testing on teaching and learning
The effectiveness of peer tutoring on academic achievement
The relationship between teacher training and student achievement
The impact of cultural diversity on classroom dynamics and learning
The effectiveness of technology in teaching and learning writing
The relationship between school facilities and student learning
The impact of teacher collaboration on instructional quality
The effectiveness of project-based learning in science education
The relationship between parent involvement and school climate
The impact of teacher feedback on student learning and motivation
The effectiveness of assessment tools in measuring student learning
The relationship between student attitudes and academic achievement
The impact of college readiness programs on student success
The effectiveness of using graphic organizers for teaching reading comprehension
The relationship between teacher leadership and school improvement
The impact of special education programs on student outcomes
The effectiveness of using digital tools in teaching and learning history
The relationship between school culture and student attendance
The impact of teacher expectations on student self-efficacy
The effectiveness of using peer assessment in student writing
The impact of teacher preparation programs on instructional quality
The impact of teacher-student ratio on student outcomes
The relationship between student engagement and academic achievement in online learning
The impact of teacher tenure policies on student outcomes
The relationship between school safety and student learning
The effectiveness of using game-based learning in the classroom.
The impact of COVID-19 on online learning in K-12 education
The effectiveness of differentiated instruction in a diverse classroom
The impact of early literacy intervention programs on reading comprehension
The effectiveness of inquiry-based learning in science education
The relationship between parent involvement and student academic success
The impact of teacher feedback on student writing
The effectiveness of using digital tools for formative assessment
The relationship between teacher burnout and student engagement
The relationship between school climate and bullying prevention
The impact of school discipline policies on student behavior and academic achievement
The effectiveness of using virtual reality in history education
The relationship between teacher expectations and student self-efficacy
The impact of teacher-student relationships on student well-being
The effectiveness of using games for math learning in elementary school
The relationship between teacher training and technology integration in the classroom
The impact of school culture on student mental health
The effectiveness of using project-based learning in social studies education
The relationship between teacher autonomy and job satisfaction
The impact of socio-economic status on access to higher education
The effectiveness of using technology for language learning
The relationship between school size and student outcomes
The impact of school leadership on teacher retention
The effectiveness of using active learning strategies in college classrooms
The relationship between teacher collaboration and student achievement
The impact of school-based mental health services on student well-being
The effectiveness of using assistive technology for special education students
The relationship between teacher job satisfaction and student performance
The impact of school-based health education programs on student health behaviors
The effectiveness of using simulations in science education
The effectiveness of using educational games for literacy development
The relationship between school culture and student academic achievement
The impact of teacher professional development on student outcomes
The effectiveness of using experiential learning in business education
The impact of teacher diversity on student engagement
The effectiveness of using graphic organizers in the classroom for reading comprehension
The relationship between school climate and teacher collaboration
The impact of school-based social-emotional learning programs on student behavior and academic performance
The effectiveness of using mobile devices for language learning
The relationship between teacher autonomy and teacher creativity
The effectiveness of using game-based learning for STEM education
The relationship between school climate and student motivation
The effectiveness of using mindfulness practices in the classroom for student well-being.
The effectiveness of personalized learning strategies
The effectiveness of mindfulness interventions in reducing stress and anxiety in students
The impact of teacher communication styles on student engagement
The relationship between bilingual education and cognitive development
The effectiveness of using virtual simulations in science education
The impact of school start times on student performance and well-being
The effectiveness of using art in language arts education
The impact of teacher-student race matching on student motivation and achievement
The relationship between school culture and student mental health
The effectiveness of inquiry-based learning in social studies education
The impact of peer mentoring on student success in college
The relationship between teacher burnout and student behavior
The effectiveness of using manipulatives in science education
The effectiveness of using gamification in math education
The impact of teacher-student gender matching on student attitudes towards STEM subjects
The relationship between student engagement and academic performance
The effectiveness of using social media in language learning
The relationship between school climate and parent involvement
The effectiveness of using technology in physical education
The effectiveness of using multimedia in history education
The impact of teacher motivation on student engagement and achievement
The relationship between school culture and parent satisfaction
The impact of teacher feedback on student motivation and self-regulation
The relationship between school climate and student attitudes towards diversity
The effectiveness of using blended learning in literacy education
The impact of teacher-student relationships on college success
The effectiveness of using digital portfolios for assessment
The impact of teacher diversity on school culture and climate
The relationship between school leadership and teacher professional development
The effectiveness of using inquiry-based learning in art education
The impact of teacher-student personality matching on academic achievement
The relationship between school climate and student creativity
The effectiveness of using coding in math education
The impact of teacher mentoring on new teacher retention
The relationship between school culture and student motivation
The effectiveness of using peer feedback in writing instruction
The impact of teacher diversity on student attitudes towards diversity
The relationship between school culture and student resilience
The effectiveness of using case-based learning in business education
The impact of teacher-student trust on student engagement and academic achievement.

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110+ Exceptional Education Research Topics Ideas

Letters that make up the words of education

Topics for education research usually comprise school research topics, research problems in education, qualitative research topics in education, and concept paper topics about education to mention a few.

If you’re looking for research titles about education, you’re reading the right post! This article contains 110 of the best education research topics that will come in handy when you need to choose one for your research. From sample research topics in education, to research titles examples for high school students about education – we have it all.

Educational Research Topics

Research title examples for college students, quantitative research titles about education, topics related to education for thesis, research titles about school issues, ph.d. research titles in education, elementary education research topics, research title examples about online class, research titles about modular learning, examples of research questions in education, special education research titles.

The best research titles about education must be done through the detailed process of exploring previous works and improving personal knowledge.

Here are some good research topics in education to consider.

What Are Good Research Topics Related to Education?

The role of Covid-19 in reinvigorating online learning
The growth of cognitive abilities through leisure experiences
The merits of group study in education
Merits and demerits of traditional learning methods
The impact of homework on traditional and modern education
Student underdevelopment as a result of larger class volumes
Advantages of digital textbooks in learning
The struggle of older generations in computer education
The standards of learning in the various academic levels
Bullying and its effects on educational and mental health
Exceptional education tutors: Is the need for higher pay justifiable?

The following examples of research titles about education for college students are ideal for a project that will take a long duration to complete. Here are some education topics for research that you can consider for your degree.

Modern classroom difficulties of students and teachers
Strategies to reform the learning difficulties within schools
The rising cost of tuition and its burden on middle-class parents
The concept of creativity among public schools and how it can be harnessed
Major difficulties experienced in academic staff training
Evaluating the learning cultures of college students
Use of scientific development techniques in student learning
Research of skill development in high school and college students
Modern grading methods in underdeveloped institutions
Dissertations and the difficulties surrounding their completion
Integration of new gender categories in personalized learning

These research topics about education require a direct quantitative analysis and study of major ideas and arguments. They often contain general statistics and figures to back up regular research. Some of such research topics in education include:

The relationship between poor education and increased academic fees
Creating a social link between homeschool and traditional schoolgoers
The relationship between teacher satisfaction and student performance
The divide between public and private school performance
The merits of parental involvement in students’ cognitive growth.
A study on child welfare and its impact on educational development
The relationship between academic performance and economic growth
Urbanization in rural areas and its contribution to institutional growth
The relationship between students and professors in dissertation writing
The link between debt accumulation and student loans
Boarding schools and regular schools: The role these two school types play in cognitive development

Educational-related topics used for a thesis normally require a wide aspect of study and enough educational materials. Here are some education research topics you can use for write my thesis .

The difficulties of bilingual education in private universities
Homework and its impact on learning processes in college education
Dissertation topic selection: Key aspects and research obligations
Social media research topics and their educational functions
A detailed educational review of student learning via virtual reality techniques
Ethnicities in universities and their participation in group activities
The modern approach to self-studying for college students
Developing time management skills in modern education
Guidelines for teacher development in advanced educational institutions
The need for religious education in boarding schools
A measure of cognitive development using digital learning methods

A research title about school issues focuses on activities surrounding the school environment and its effects on students, teachers, parents, and education in general. Below are some sample research titles in education, relating to school issues.

Learning English in bilingual schools
A study of teachers’ role as parent figures on school grounds
Addressing the increased use of illegal substances and their effects in schools
The benefits of after-class activities for foreign students
Assessing student and teacher relationships
A study of the best methods to implement safety rules in school
Major obstacles in meeting school schedules using boarding students as a case study
The need for counseling in public and private schools: Which is greater?
Academic volunteering in understaffed public schools
Modern techniques for curbing school violence among college students
The advantages and disadvantages of teacher unions in schools

As you create your proposed list of research topics in education, consider scientific journals for referencing purposes. Here are some Ph.D. research titles for education.

The modern methods of academic research writing
The role of colleges in advanced mental care
The merits and demerits of Ph.D. studies in Europe and Africa
Interpersonal relationships between students and professors in advanced institutions
A review of community colleges: merits and demerits
Assessing racism in academic ethnic minorities
The psychological changes of students in higher education
The questionable standards of student loan provisions
The merits of personalized teaching techniques in colleges
The wage gap between private and public university teachers
Teacher responsibilities in private universities versus public universities

The research topics in elementary education in 2023 are very different from the elementary education research topics from five or ten years ago. This creates interesting grounds for different research titles for elementary education.

Here are some elementary education title research ideas.

Assessing quick computer literacy among elementary school pupils.
The role of video games in childhood brain development
Male vs female role models in early education periods
The advantages of digital textbooks in elementary schools
The impact of modern curriculums on elementary education
Lack of proper school grooming is a cause of violence.
Should elementary school children be taught about LGBTQ?
A review of the need for sexual education in elementary schools
The effects of emotional dependence in early childhood learners.
The need for constant technology supervision of elementary school students
Advantages of computer-guided education in elementary schools

Here are some research title examples for students taking online classes.

The academic difficulties experienced by online students.
A study of decreased attention in online classes
The upsides and downsides of online education
The rising fees of online and traditional education in universities
A detailed study on the necessity of college internships
The need to provide college scholarships based on environmental achievements
How online education terminates university fraternities and sororities.
The role of academic supervisors in career selection
Why interactive assignments improved learning capabilities during the pandemic
Merits of education in online learning environments
Why online lessons are the least effective for some college students

The modular learning approach focuses primarily on learning outcomes. Here are some examples of research titles about modular learning.

Modular learning and the role of teachers in its execution
Teaching techniques of religious institutions
Potential risks of accelerated learning
Modular learning on students’ future performances
The general overview of modular learning amongst students
The modern Advantages and disadvantages of inclusive classes
Observing student developments in modular learning
Music therapy for fostering modular learning techniques
The creation of a personalized curriculum for students.
Applications of modular learning both in home-schooling?
The benefits of modular learning towards creating a more holistic educational system

These research title examples about education answer important questions and they can also be argumentative essay topics .

Here are some titles of research about education questions.

What impacts do learning approaches provide for students?
How can schools manage their increasing gender differences?
What fosters the provision of learning needs?
What are the best educational recruitment methods?
How can cognitive development improve education?
How can you assess the moral growth of institutions?
What are the primary causes of educational differences in geographical locations?
How can institutions address increasing mental health needs?
Why is early intervention essential in students with mental health setbacks?
What are the characteristics of mental health deterioration among students?
What techniques are acceptable in regulating the violence of students in institutions

Some of the research title examples about education include:

How do schools create more personalized learning methods?
Evaluating mental health setbacks during education
The impact of modern technology on special education
The cognitive improvements via specialized learning in dyslexic children
The psychological link between dyslexia and bullying in high school
Impact of social isolation in special education classes
The difficulties in providing specialized learning environments
A study of orphan students with disabilities and their aptitudes for learning
How special classes improve the self-esteem of disabled students.
How to use modern teaching techniques in unique learning environments.
A study of the application of digital games to autistic learning

Final words about education research topics

We have provided some reliable examples of a research topic about education you can use for write my thesis . You can use these research titles in education to cultivate your ideas, create inspiration, or for online research. Remember always to select a topic that you’re naturally passionate about and do diligent research, and reach out to our professional writing services if you need any help.

10 creative research topics for students (2024)

Last updated

25 November 2023

Reviewed by

Miroslav Damyanov

Research is a key part of student life, but deciding which topic to research can take time and effort. The right research topic typically aligns with your skills and interests, has current relevance, and can positively impact the world.

In this article, you’ll find some helpful examples to help you get started.

What is a research topic, and what is it for?

Research topics enable students to drill down into a specific aspect of a subject to broaden their knowledge and share learnings with others. They are typically used to make discoveries or develop fresh viewpoints.

A research topic defines the specific theme that research will be conducted around. It’s essential for providing a key focus for the work to be completed. Ultimately, it defines a core problem or knowledge gap that needs to be solved.

A clear topic helps define what is being studied and how that information will be communicated to others.

Research topic vs. research question

A research topic is a broad theme of focus that requires further investigation. It’s the project’s overall subject—an aspect of which will be studied.

A research topic example could be “The effects of meditation on stress reduction.”

A research question is a specific inquiry that researchers want to investigate and answer to broaden their knowledge and make new discoveries. Research questions are much more specific, focusing on a very small aspect of the overall topic.

The right research question will specifically set out what is being researched so there is no ambiguity.

Here’s an example of a research question within the topic: “How does meditation impact stress, anxiety, and burnout in the workplace?”

What makes a good research paper topic?

Here are the characteristics that make some topics more favorable and useful than others:

Clarity: a helpful research topic should be clearly understood to ensure the integrity of the research. It should be clear to the student and mentor/professor what the topic is and how it will be explored.

Originality: answering questions that have already been researched and answered many times before could be a waste of resources. Answering original questions is key to getting the most out of research. This might involve researching topics that have already been covered from a different angle or exploring an entirely new topic.

Relevance: it’s helpful to ensure that a research topic is related to your expertise and your access to resources. This will ensure that the research topic is relevant to you.

Ethical : ethics should always be considered when conducting research. Your research shouldn’t cause physical or mental harm to any participants. You should also consider animal and environmental ethics.

How can I choose a good topic for my research paper?

With so many topics to choose from, selecting a topic for your research paper can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s a good idea to consider these three points to make the best choice:

1. Lean into personal interest

Being interested and experienced in a particular field will make the research more interesting, relevant, and straightforward to conduct.

Your interest will mean you’re committed and motivated to discover the answer to your research question. Being personally engaged also makes the process more enjoyable.

One caveat to keep in mind is the potential for bias. If you are invested in the research having a particular result, you must ensure it’s accurate, double-checked, and reviewed by an impartial party.

2. Choose a topic with enough information

Your research project might fail if you don’t have access to sufficient information and resources. There needs to be enough information to gain deep insights into the research at hand.

Consider the resources you have within your project limits. If your research has funding, carefully work out what that funding could be used for. If not, you may need to consider research that you’ll be able to complete with access to public records and other free resources.

Timings, finances, access to participants, and publicly accessible information will all need to be considered before choosing the final topic to research.

3. Consider the guidelines

You’ll need to adhere to the specific guidelines that your school, mentor, or professor have laid out. They may request that the topic be related to public interest, a currently challenging topic for the environment, or another parameter.

When considering those guidelines, make ethical considerations. Your school or university is unlikely to permit unethical research.

How to find research topics to write about

Even though there’s an endless range of topics to research, you might not know where to begin. Starting with background reading, mind mapping, and speaking with mentors can help mold general ideas into useful topics and questions.

Extensive reading: completing background reading of educational databases, journals, and scientific studies can help provide a good working knowledge of what is currently being researched and identify key gaps.

Social problems: current challenges on both a local and global scale can make excellent research questions. Whether it’s investigating climate change, human health, or the impact of pandemics, there’s likely to be large human interest if you research social problems and challenges. The research you conduct may even have a positive impact on the world around you.

Mind mapping: brainstorming different ideas inspired by your background reading and personal interests can lead to ideal research topics. Create a large mind map, whether in a notebook or on a whiteboard, to get all your ideas down on paper. You may be surprised at what unique ideas you come up with.

Speak to mentors: running topics over with your professor or mentor could prove very helpful. They may be able to help you refine your ideas, provide feedback on research questions, and offer useful suggestions to ensure the topic you pick is appropriate.

The top 10 research topics for students

Here are some of the top 10 research topics and research areas for students. Whether in high school, senior high school, or college, these topics are important and relevant for students today.

You might use these ideas as starting points for your own original research topics and research questions.

1. High school research paper topic ideas

Research topics in high school can promote critical thinking , personal growth, and problem-solving skills.

Some of the most relevant research topics for high schoolers revolve around social and political issues, as those are often core topics within the school curriculum. Also, students are often interested in how they can positively impact the world around them, so topics within social change and social issues are particularly relevant.

The impacts of bullying

Bullying and its impacts are an interesting and relevant topic for high school students. Students may want to consider ways to mitigate bullying or explore whether bullying can affect people long-term.

Some specific research questions within the bullying topic are:

What is the evidence that parental support can alleviate the impact of bullying in schools?

What are the effects of bullying and victimization on short-term mental health?

How can we predict adolescents’ bullying participation and understand the participant roles of bullying in different grades?

Social media in high schools

With social media use prolific in the modern world, students may be particularly interested to learn about how it impacts humans. Students may want to research the effects of different social media types, ways to reduce social media use, or how social media is impacting people around the world.

Some topics within social media could be:

Is there a correlation between social media use and academic performance?

What are the effects of social media use on mental health in people aged 12–18?

How does social media use affect self-esteem in students?

2. Psychology research paper topics

Psychology is a broadly studied topic with many possible avenues for exploration. Whether you’d like to understand how the human brain works, ways to boost mental health, or treatment options in psychology, there are endless options.

Here are some of the top 10 research topics for college students in psychology:

Increasing happiness

Some specific research questions related to happiness include the following:

What are the factors driving the fear of leaning into happiness in American society?

How can practicing vulnerability reduce stress and boost happiness?

What impact does forest bathing have on overall mood scores?

Mitigating anxiety

With 37% of US adults more anxious in 2023 than in 2022, anxiety as a research topic is very relevant.

Below are some example research questions:

How does chronic anxiety impact people’s day-to-day lives?

What is the impact of meditation interventions on anxiety?

Is there data to support physical exercise interventions for anxiety disorders?

3. Science research paper topics

Scientific research covers many study fields. From biology and chemistry to physics and biochemistry, science helps researchers discover critical information about humans and our world.

Here are a few potential topics for exploration:

Reducing pandemic risk

Given the impact of COVID-19, mitigating the risk of a future pandemic is of significant human interest. A student may look at ways to improve pandemic responses, identify future pandemics, boost vaccine adoption, and reduce the spread of misinformation.

Specific research questions include the following:

How can AI help predict future pandemics?

How does animal breeding contribute to zoonotic disease risk?

What are the key ways to identify and control a potential future pandemic before it becomes widespread?

Renewable energy

With climate change and the planet’s health a major concern for many scientists, investigations into more environmentally friendly and renewable energy sources are of great social interest.

Here are some research questions about renewable energy to consider:

What is the economic feasibility of widespread renewable energy use across the US?

How could wind, water, and solar energy reduce global emissions?

What are the core factors preventing the widespread use of renewable energy?

4. Good environmental research topics

Climate change impacts every person on the planet, so it can make an excellent research topic. Particularly for the younger generation, climate change is an interesting and often concerning discussion topic. Gen Z, for example, speaks much more actively about climate change both on and offline.

Climate change on a global scale

Some specific research questions within the climate change topic are:

What is the impact of climate change on biodiversity in the Amazon rainforest?

What impact could the use of solar power have in the US in relation to carbon emissions?

How do carbon dioxide emissions affect ocean acidity levels?

5. Argumentative research paper topics

Setting out a specific argument and exploring the topic can make for interesting research. Argumentative research topics are typically related to human interest, issues that impact us on a global scale, or challenges that particular social groups face.

Affirmative action

With rising interest in equality, researching affirmative action—designed to prevent the impacts of discrimination—is a relevant research topic for high school and college students.

Some specific questions relating to affirmative action could be:

Does affirmative action promote equality in the workplace?

What is the evidence that affirmative action is helpful in university admissions?

How has the affirmative action ban impacted the tech industry?

The ethical use of AI

AI use is expanding rapidly across the globe, so there’s growing interest in its impacts and the need for ethical usage.

Some research questions relating to AI include the following:

Could AI lead to more global conflict?

Can ethical legislation reduce the risk of AI and its implementation?

How many jobs could be impacted by AI in 2025?

6. Human rights paper topics

Human rights impact everyone on the planet, so it’s a topic that’s of continual interest.

Research in this area could cover human rights in the workplace, privacy rights, gender equality, and much more.

International human rights

International human rights is a complex yet critical area of global interest. Human rights help protect people’s freedom and safety around the world.

What are ways to reduce human rights violations in conflict zones?

What is the impact of organizations such as Amnesty International on international human rights?

In what ways can governments enforce human rights globally?

LGBTQI+ rights

With LGBTQI+ issues gaining a brighter spotlight in mainstream media, research into this area can be very beneficial, not just for those impacted by discrimination but for society as a whole.

Here are some potential research questions:

How can gender dysphoria impact transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) adolescents’ mental health and quality of life?

What are ways to boost mental health for those who experience discrimination due to their sexual orientation or gender identity?

How could genderless bathrooms increase access and safety for LGBTQI+ people?

7. US history research paper topics

The US has a vast and interesting history, which forms part of the curriculum in many high schools and colleges. Different aspects of this history can make relevant fields of research, such as the following:

What factors that led to the abolishment of slavery in the US are relevant in politics today?

How did the Founding Fathers shape the US political system, and what can be learned?

Why did the Louisiana Purchase have such a significant impact on US history?

8. Law enforcement research topics

Maintaining law and order in society is highly complex. Exploring how law enforcement can benefit society as a whole can be a rewarding field of study.

Some possible law enforcement topics include the following:

How can data analysis and intelligence-led policing reduce crime?

What is the role of Crisis Intervention Training in policing?

How can data improve the enforcement of cybersecurity laws?

9. Business research paper topics

Business is a broad area of study with many possible directions for research papers. Business drives the economy, providing jobs and industry. It’s the cornerstone of society, so research in this area is always of social interest.

Here are some possible business research topics to consider:

How can data analysis impact consumer purchasing decisions?

What are some of the key dilemmas in ethical business practices?

How can diversity and inclusion be boosted in the workforce?

10. Economics research paper topics

Whether you choose to focus on microeconomics, macroeconomics, or applied fields, economics research can take you in many directions.

Below are some general economics paper topics:

What are the widespread impacts of the gig economy?

How can investing in female-founded businesses impact economies in developing countries?

How does progressive taxation impact income inequality?

It all starts with the right research question

Successful research starts with the right question, regardless of your chosen topic.

Taking time to pose a relevant and clear research question will help you discover new insights, learnings, and evidence.

Research is the very thing that drives human knowledge. Remember, your research might not just impact you but also the world and people around you.

How can I get research ideas?

To come up with research ideas, you might find it helpful to do some background reading, consider current social issues, lean into your skills and interests, and speak to a mentor or professor. Brainstorming and mind mapping can also help.

What is a good research question?

A good research question should be clear, relevant, original, and ethical. You should also have access to the necessary resources to perform the research thoroughly.

How do I create a title for my research topic?

The right title for a research topic is clear and relevant to your field of study. Ideally, it’s an original idea and refers to the specific question you’re posing.

What are some good qualitative research topics?

Qualitative research involves analyzing people’s attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors.

There are qualitative research topics across almost every field of study, including psychology, education, social sciences, human resources, technology, and healthcare.

What qualitative research topics can be good for STEM students?

For STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) students, qualitative research topics could revolve around social impacts and perceptions of science and technology.

Here are some examples:

How the general population views climate change

The potential social impacts of AI

How to use Big Data ethically

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225+ Action Research Topics In Education (Updated 2023)

Action research in education offers a powerful tool for educators to actively engage in improving their teaching practices and student outcomes. By combining research and action, this approach encourages teachers to become reflective practitioners and agents of change within their classrooms and schools. Action research topics in education encompass a wide range of issues that educators can investigate to address specific challenges and enhance their instructional strategies.

From examining the impact of technology integration to exploring innovative assessment methods, action research empowers teachers to develop evidence-based solutions tailored to their unique educational contexts. By conducting small-scale studies, educators can gather data, analyze it, and implement targeted interventions to make tangible improvements in student learning.

In this blog, we will delve into a variety of action research topics in education, exploring how they can empower educators to drive meaningful change and foster a dynamic and effective learning environment for their students.

Format of action research paper in education

Please note that this table provides a general outline and can be customized based on the specific requirements and guidelines of your research paper.

300+ For College Students (Updated 2023)

What to consider while selecting action research topics in education

When selecting action research topics in education, it is important to consider several factors to ensure that your research is meaningful, relevant, and feasible. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Personal Interest

Choose action research topics in education that genuinely interests you. When you are passionate about the subject matter, you will be more motivated and engaged throughout the research process.

Educational Context

Consider the specific educational context in which you work or are interested in. Reflect on the challenges, needs, or areas of improvement within that context. Your research should address a problem or issue that is relevant and impactful within the educational setting.

Research Gap

Review existing literature and research in your chosen area to identify any gaps or unanswered questions. Select action research topics in education that contributes to the existing knowledge base and fills a research gap.

Feasibility

Evaluate the feasibility of conducting the research within the available resources, time frame, and constraints. Consider factors such as access to participants, data collection methods, ethical considerations, and potential support from colleagues or institutions.

Relevance and Impact

Choose action research topics in education that have practical implications and can lead to positive changes in teaching practices, student learning, or educational policies. Aim for research that can make a difference in the educational field.

Collaboration Opportunities

Consider if there are opportunities for collaboration with colleagues, researchers, or educational organizations. Collaborative research can provide additional support, expertise, and diverse perspectives.

Ethical Considerations

Ensure that your research topic aligns with ethical guidelines and regulations. Consider the potential impact on participants and ensure their rights, privacy, and confidentiality are protected.

Remember, selecting an action research topic is an important decision, so take the time to thoroughly evaluate and choose a topic that aligns with your goals and the needs of the educational community you serve.

200+ Action research topics in education

The impact of technology integration on student engagement in the classroom.
Strategies to improve reading comprehension in elementary school students.
Enhancing parental involvement in student learning and academic success.
Investigating the effectiveness of cooperative learning strategies in promoting peer interaction and collaboration.
Addressing the achievement gap in mathematics between different student groups.
Examining the impact of inclusive education on the academic and social development of students with disabilities.
Enhancing critical thinking skills through project-based learning.
Implementing differentiated instruction to meet the diverse needs of students in the classroom.
Investigating the effects of homework on student learning and academic performance.
Promoting positive classroom behavior and reducing disruptive behaviors.
Assessing the effectiveness of teacher feedback in improving student writing skills.
Strategies to promote a growth mindset and enhance student motivation.
Examining the impact of physical activity on student concentration and academic performance.
Enhancing teacher-student relationships and its impact on student engagement and achievement.
Investigating the effects of arts integration on student creativity and academic achievement.
Strategies to support English language learners in mainstream classrooms.
Examining the impact of peer tutoring on student learning and academic achievement.
Enhancing teacher collaboration and its impact on instructional practices and student outcomes.
Investigating the effectiveness of inquiry-based science instruction in promoting student understanding.
Promoting gender equity in STEM education.
Examining the impact of mindfulness practices on student well-being and academic success.
Strategies for reducing test anxiety and promoting test-taking skills.
Investigating the effects of the classroom environment on student learning and engagement.
Enhancing student self-regulation skills through metacognitive strategies.
Promoting multicultural education and inclusivity in the classroom.
Examining the impact of flipped classroom models on student learning outcomes.
Strategies for integrating technology effectively in early childhood education.
Investigating the effects of outdoor education on student engagement and academic achievement.
Enhancing teacher professional development programs to improve instructional practices.
Promoting environmental education and sustainable practices in schools.
Examining the impact of social-emotional learning programs on student behavior and well-being.
Strategies for supporting students with ADHD in the classroom.
Investigating the effects of classroom management strategies on student behavior and academic performance.
Enhancing parental involvement in early childhood education settings.
Promoting digital literacy skills among students.
Examining the impact of peer assessment on student learning and achievement.
Strategies for fostering creativity and innovation in the classroom.
Investigating the effects of inclusive literature on promoting empathy and cultural understanding.
Enhancing the use of formative assessment in the classroom.
Promoting critical media literacy skills among students.
Examining the impact of outdoor learning on student engagement and academic achievement.
Strategies for promoting positive social skills and reducing bullying in schools.
Investigating the effects of flexible seating arrangements on student behavior and learning outcomes.
Enhancing the use of educational technology in special education settings.
Promoting student self-efficacy and academic motivation.
Examining the impact of project-based learning on student problem-solving skills.
Strategies for promoting positive school climate and student well-being.
Investigating the effects of parental involvement on student homework completion and academic performance.
Enhancing teacher feedback practices to improve student learning and achievement.
Promoting inclusive practices for students with diverse cultural backgrounds.
Examining the impact of arts education on student creativity and academic success.
Strategies for supporting students with learning disabilities
Investigating the effects of gamification on student motivation and engagement.
Enhancing collaborative learning in online education settings.
Promoting effective study habits and time management skills among students.
Examining the impact of parental involvement on early literacy skills development.
Strategies for promoting positive teacher-student relationships in high school settings.
Investigating the effects of mindfulness practices on reducing stress and anxiety in students.
Enhancing student self-esteem and self-confidence through targeted interventions.
Promoting gender equality in science education.
Examining the impact of teacher-led professional learning communities on instructional practices and student outcomes.
Strategies for supporting students with autism spectrum disorder in inclusive classrooms.
Investigating the effects of project-based learning on student problem-solving skills in mathematics.
Enhancing cultural competency among educators to meet the needs of diverse student populations.
Promoting digital citizenship and online safety education.
Examining the impact of restorative justice practices on reducing disciplinary incidents and promoting a positive school climate.
Strategies for integrating social justice education across the curriculum.
Investigating the effects of parental involvement on student transitions from elementary to middle school.
Enhancing teacher collaboration for effective interdisciplinary instruction.
Promoting global citizenship and cross-cultural understanding in the classroom.
Examining the impact of music education on student cognitive development and academic performance.
Strategies for supporting students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in mainstream classrooms.
Investigating the effects of cooperative learning strategies on improving students’ social skills.
Enhancing the use of educational technology for students with visual impairments.
Promoting inclusive practices for students with diverse learning needs.
Examining the impact of teacher-led professional development on instructional practices and student outcomes.
Strategies for promoting positive classroom behavior in early childhood settings.
Investigating the effects of growth mindset interventions on student resilience and academic achievement.
Enhancing parent-teacher communication for improved student support and academic success.
Promoting environmental sustainability education in primary schools.
Examining the impact of outdoor play on children’s physical and cognitive development.
Strategies for supporting students with English language learning difficulties.
Investigating the effects of mindfulness practices on reducing test anxiety in students.
Enhancing the use of educational technology for students with learning disabilities.
Promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills in mathematics education.
Examining the impact of peer mentoring programs on student academic and social-emotional development.
Strategies for creating inclusive classrooms for students with hearing impairments.
Investigating the effects of student-led conferences on student ownership of learning.
Enhancing the use of formative assessment for personalized instruction.
Promoting positive classroom discourse and student participation.
Examining the impact of outdoor experiential learning on student environmental awareness and action.
Strategies for supporting students with emotional and behavioral disorders in inclusive settings.
Investigating the effects of teacher self-reflection on instructional practices and student outcomes.
Enhancing the use of assistive technology for students with physical disabilities.
Promoting media literacy education to develop critical media consumers.
Examining the impact of service-learning on student civic engagement and social responsibility.
Strategies for creating inclusive classrooms for students with specific learning disabilities.
Investigating the effects of inquiry-based science instruction on student scientific inquiry skills.
Enhancing teacher-parent partnerships for collaborative support of student learning.
Promoting cultural diversity education in secondary schools.
Examining the impact of cooperative learning on student academic achievement in science education.
Strategies for promoting inclusive practices for students with speech and language disorders.
Investigating the effects of flipped classroom models on student engagement and learning outcomes in social studies.
Enhancing teacher feedback practices to improve student writing skills in English language arts.
Promoting social-emotional learning through mindfulness-based interventions in elementary schools.
Examining the impact of project-based learning on student creativity and problem-solving skills in the arts.
Strategies for supporting students with executive functioning difficulties in the classroom.
Investigating the effects of differentiated instruction on student motivation and academic achievement in mathematics.
Enhancing parental involvement in supporting early literacy development at home.
Promoting inclusive practices for students with physical disabilities in physical education classes.
Examining the impact of teacher-student relationships on student attendance and classroom behavior.
Strategies for promoting positive peer relationships and reducing social isolation in middle school.
Investigating the effects of drama-based pedagogy on student engagement and understanding in literature studies.
Enhancing the use of educational technology for students with learning difficulties in computer science education.
Promoting character education and ethical decision-making in schools.
Examining the impact of teacher self-efficacy on instructional practices and student outcomes.
Strategies for supporting students with English language learning difficulties in content area classes.
Investigating the effects of arts integration on student motivation and academic achievement in history education.
Enhancing family-school partnerships for students with special educational needs.
Promoting critical digital literacy skills for responsible online information consumption.
Examining the impact of inclusive physical education on student attitudes towards fitness and physical activity.
Strategies for supporting students with dyslexia in reading instruction.
Investigating the effects of outdoor education on student environmental attitudes and behaviors.
Enhancing the use of educational technology for students with autism spectrum disorder.
Promoting career readiness and employability skills in high school education.
Examining the impact of parent-led reading interventions on early literacy skills in kindergarten.
Strategies for promoting positive teacher-student relationships in online learning environments.
Investigating the effects of arts integration on student creativity and academic achievement in science education.
Enhancing teacher collaboration for effective co-teaching in inclusive classrooms.
Promoting global perspectives and intercultural understanding in social studies education.
Examining the impact of cooperative learning on student social skills and peer relationships.
Strategies for supporting students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in physical education classes.
Investigating the effects of project-based learning on student problem-solving skills in computer science.
Enhancing cultural competence among educators for working with diverse student populations.
Promoting digital citizenship and online safety in digital media literacy education.
Examining the impact of restorative practices on reducing disciplinary incidents and fostering a positive school climate.
Strategies for supporting students with emotional and behavioral challenges in mainstream classrooms.
Investigating the effects of growth mindset interventions on student academic resilience in mathematics education.
Enhancing parent-teacher communication for effective student support and academic success.
Promoting environmental sustainability education in secondary schools.
Examining the impact of outdoor experiential learning on student STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) interest and career aspirations.
Strategies for creating inclusive classrooms for students with visual impairments.
Investigating the effects of student-led conferences on student self-evaluation and goal setting.
Enhancing the use of formative assessment for personalized instruction in physical education.
Promoting positive classroom management strategies.
Examining the impact of cooperative learning on student academic achievement in foreign language education.
Strategies for promoting inclusive practices for students with autism spectrum disorder in inclusive classrooms.
Investigating the effects of blended learning models on student engagement and learning outcomes in mathematics.
Enhancing teacher feedback practices to improve student oral communication skills in language arts.
Promoting social-emotional learning through mindfulness-based interventions in high schools.
Examining the impact of project-based learning on student creativity and problem-solving skills in technology education.
Strategies for supporting students with learning difficulties in inclusive science classrooms.
Investigating the effects of differentiated instruction on student motivation and academic achievement in social studies.
Enhancing parental involvement in supporting numeracy development at home.
Promoting inclusive practices for students with sensory impairments in inclusive classrooms.
Examining the impact of teacher-student relationships on student motivation and academic achievement in physical education.
Strategies for promoting positive peer relationships and reducing bullying in high schools.
Investigating the effects of arts integration on student motivation and academic achievement in mathematics education.
Enhancing the use of educational technology for students with learning difficulties in science education.
Promoting character education and ethical decision-making in elementary schools.
Examining the impact of teacher self-efficacy on instructional practices and student outcomes in music education.
Strategies for supporting students with English language learning difficulties in mathematics classes.
Investigating the effects of arts integration on student creativity and academic achievement in social-emotional learning.
Enhancing family-school partnerships for students with special educational needs in inclusive settings.
Promoting critical digital literacy skills for responsible online communication in language arts education.
Examining the impact of inclusive physical education on student attitudes towards physical fitness and well-being.
Strategies for supporting students with dyscalculia in mathematics instruction.
Investigating the effects of outdoor education on student environmental knowledge and sustainability practices.
Enhancing the use of educational technology for students with hearing impairments in inclusive classrooms.
Promoting career exploration and development in middle school education.
Examining the impact of parent-led science experiments on student interest and learning outcomes in science education.
Strategies for promoting positive teacher-student relationships in virtual learning environments.
Investigating the effects of arts integration on student creativity and academic achievement in language arts.
Enhancing teacher collaboration for effective co-planning and instructional delivery in inclusive classrooms.
Promoting global citizenship and cultural competence in foreign language education.
Examining the impact of cooperative learning on student social-emotional development and well-being.
Strategies for supporting students with physical disabilities in adaptive physical education classes.
Investigating the effects of project-based learning on student problem-solving skills in engineering education.
Enhancing cultural competence among educators for working with diverse student populations in social studies.
Promoting digital literacy skills for responsible online research and information evaluation.
Examining the impact of restorative practices on reducing conflicts and promoting positive relationships in middle schools.
Strategies for supporting students with emotional and behavioral challenges in inclusive classrooms.
Investigating the effects of growth mindset interventions on student academic resilience in language arts.
Enhancing parent-teacher communication for effective collaboration and student support in mathematics education.
Promoting environmental sustainability education in primary schools through cross-curricular integration.
Examining the impact of outdoor experiential learning on student ecological literacy and environmental stewardship.
Strategies for creating inclusive classrooms for students with cognitive impairments.
Investigating the effects of student-led conferences on student self-reflection and goal-setting in science education.
Enhancing the use of formative assessment for personalized instruction in social studies.
Promoting positive classroom management strategies for students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Examining the impact of cooperative learning on student academic achievement in physical sciences.
Strategies for promoting inclusive practices for students with speech and language difficulties in inclusive classrooms.
Investigating the effects of blended learning models on student engagement and learning outcomes in language arts.
Enhancing teacher feedback practices to improve student presentation skills in communication studies.
Promoting social-emotional learning through mindfulness-based interventions in middle schools.
Examining the impact of project-based learning on student creativity and problem-solving skills in fine arts.
Strategies for supporting students with learning difficulties in inclusive social-emotional learning programs.
Investigating the effects of differentiated instruction on student motivation and academic achievement in physical education.
Enhancing parental involvement in supporting STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education at home.
Promoting inclusive practices for students with intellectual disabilities in inclusive classrooms.
Examining the impact of teacher-student relationships on student motivation and academic achievement in music education.
Strategies for promoting positive peer relationships and fostering social-emotional development in high schools.
Investigating the effects of arts integration on student motivation and academic achievement in physical sciences.
Enhancing the use of educational technology for students with learning difficulties in social studies education.
Promoting character education and ethical decision-making in secondary schools.
Examining the impact of teacher self-efficacy on instructional practices and student outcomes in physical education.
Strategies for supporting students with English language learning difficulties in science classes.
Investigating the effects of arts integration on student creativity and academic achievement in physical education.
Enhancing family-school partnerships for students with special educational needs in inclusive physical education settings.
Promoting critical digital literacy skills for responsible online communication in social studies education.
Strategies for supporting students with dysgraphia in writing instruction.
Investigating the effects of outdoor education on student environmental knowledge and sustainable practices in science education.
Enhancing the use of educational technology for students with visual impairments in inclusive classrooms.
Promoting career exploration and development in high school education.
Examining the impact of parent-led math activities on student interest and learning outcomes in mathematics education.
Investigating the effects of arts integration on student creativity and academic achievement in social sciences.
Enhancing teacher collaboration for effective co-planning and instructional delivery in inclusive physical education settings.
Promoting global citizenship and cultural competence in history education.
Examining the impact of cooperative learning on student social-emotional development and well-being in language arts.
Strategies for supporting students with physical disabilities in inclusive arts education classes.
Investigating the effects of project-based learning on student problem-solving skills in computer programming education.
Enhancing cultural competence among educators for working with diverse student populations in mathematics education.
Promoting digital literacy skills for responsible online communication and information sharing.
Examining the impact of restorative practices on reducing conflicts and promoting positive relationships in high schools.
Strategies for supporting students with emotional and behavioral challenges in inclusive language arts classrooms.
Investigating the effects of growth mindset interventions on student academic resilience in social sciences.
Enhancing parent-teacher communication for effective collaboration and student support in science education.
Promoting environmental sustainability education in elementary schools through interdisciplinary integration.

Tips to write appealing action research paper in education

Here are some tips to write an appealing action research paper in education:

Select a Relevant and Engaging Topic: Choose action research topics in education that is relevant to the field of education and aligns with your interests and goals. Select a topic that has practical implications and can contribute to improving educational practices.
Clearly Define the Problem: Clearly define the problem or issue you want to address through your action research. Provide a concise and focused problem statement that highlights the specific area you aim to investigate.
Set Clear Objectives: State clear and measurable objectives for your research. Identify what you want to achieve through your study and how you plan to measure your outcomes.
Conduct a Literature Review: Conduct a thorough review of existing literature related to your research topic. Identify gaps in current knowledge and highlight how your research will contribute to filling those gaps.
Use a Rigorous Research Design: Choose an appropriate research design that aligns with your research objectives. Consider whether a quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods approach is most suitable for your study.
Collect and Analyze Data: Collect relevant data through appropriate methods, such as surveys, interviews, observations, or document analysis. Use rigorous data analysis techniques to derive meaningful findings from your data.
Reflect and Take Action: Reflect on your findings and consider their implications for educational practice. Based on your findings, develop actionable recommendations or interventions that can be implemented to address the identified problem.
Write Clearly and Concisely: Present your research in a clear and concise manner. Use appropriate academic language and structure your paper logically. Clearly explain your methodology, findings, and conclusions.
Support Findings with Evidence: Use evidence from your data analysis to support your findings and conclusions. Use graphs, charts, or quotes from participants to enhance the credibility of your research.
Discuss Limitations and Future Directions: Acknowledge the limitations of your study and discuss areas for future research. Address any potential biases or challenges that may have influenced your findings.
Consider the Audience: Keep in mind the intended audience for your research paper, which may include educators, researchers, or policymakers. Write in a way that engages and appeals to your target audience.
Revise and Edit: Proofread your paper for any grammatical or spelling errors. Revise your content to ensure clarity and coherence. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to improve the quality of your paper.

Remember, an appealing action research paper in education is one that not only presents valuable findings but also offers practical insights and recommendations for improving educational practices.

In conclusion, action research topics in education provide a powerful framework for addressing real-world issues and improving teaching and learning practices. This research approach empowers educators to take an active role in identifying challenges, implementing interventions, and evaluating their impact within their own classrooms or educational settings.

By engaging in systematic inquiry, educators can generate valuable insights, evidence-based strategies, and meaningful changes that positively influence student outcomes. Action research promotes a reflective and collaborative approach, encouraging teachers to continuously refine their instructional methods, adapt to diverse student needs, and create inclusive learning environments.

Ultimately, action research in education empowers educators to be agents of change, fostering innovation and improvement in education while enhancing student engagement, achievement, and well-being.

The 10 Most Significant Education Studies of 2020

We reviewed hundreds of educational studies in 2020 and then highlighted 10 of the most significant—covering topics from virtual learning to the reading wars and the decline of standardized tests.

In the month of March of 2020, the year suddenly became a whirlwind. With a pandemic disrupting life across the entire globe, teachers scrambled to transform their physical classrooms into virtual—or even hybrid—ones, and researchers slowly began to collect insights into what works, and what doesn’t, in online learning environments around the world.

Meanwhile, neuroscientists made a convincing case for keeping handwriting in schools, and after the closure of several coal-fired power plants in Chicago, researchers reported a drop in pediatric emergency room visits and fewer absences in schools, reminding us that questions of educational equity do not begin and end at the schoolhouse door.

1. To Teach Vocabulary, Let Kids Be Thespians

When students are learning a new language, ask them to act out vocabulary words. It’s fun to unleash a child’s inner thespian, of course, but a 2020 study concluded that it also nearly doubles their ability to remember the words months later.

Researchers asked 8-year-old students to listen to words in another language and then use their hands and bodies to mimic the words—spreading their arms and pretending to fly, for example, when learning the German word flugzeug , which means “airplane.” After two months, these young actors were a remarkable 73 percent more likely to remember the new words than students who had listened without accompanying gestures. Researchers discovered similar, if slightly less dramatic, results when students looked at pictures while listening to the corresponding vocabulary.

It’s a simple reminder that if you want students to remember something, encourage them to learn it in a variety of ways—by drawing it , acting it out, or pairing it with relevant images , for example.

2. Neuroscientists Defend the Value of Teaching Handwriting—Again

For most kids, typing just doesn’t cut it. In 2012, brain scans of preliterate children revealed crucial reading circuitry flickering to life when kids hand-printed letters and then tried to read them. The effect largely disappeared when the letters were typed or traced.

More recently, in 2020, a team of researchers studied older children—seventh graders—while they handwrote, drew, and typed words, and concluded that handwriting and drawing produced telltale neural tracings indicative of deeper learning.

“Whenever self-generated movements are included as a learning strategy, more of the brain gets stimulated,” the researchers explain, before echoing the 2012 study: “It also appears that the movements related to keyboard typing do not activate these networks the same way that drawing and handwriting do.”

It would be a mistake to replace typing with handwriting, though. All kids need to develop digital skills, and there’s evidence that technology helps children with dyslexia to overcome obstacles like note taking or illegible handwriting, ultimately freeing them to “use their time for all the things in which they are gifted,” says the Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity.

3. The ACT Test Just Got a Negative Score (Face Palm)

A 2020 study found that ACT test scores, which are often a key factor in college admissions, showed a weak—or even negative —relationship when it came to predicting how successful students would be in college. “There is little evidence that students will have more college success if they work to improve their ACT score,” the researchers explain, and students with very high ACT scores—but indifferent high school grades—often flamed out in college, overmatched by the rigors of a university’s academic schedule.

Just last year, the SAT—cousin to the ACT—had a similarly dubious public showing. In a major 2019 study of nearly 50,000 students led by researcher Brian Galla, and including Angela Duckworth, researchers found that high school grades were stronger predictors of four-year-college graduation than SAT scores.

The reason? Four-year high school grades, the researchers asserted, are a better indicator of crucial skills like perseverance, time management, and the ability to avoid distractions. It’s most likely those skills, in the end, that keep kids in college.

4. A Rubric Reduces Racial Grading Bias

A simple step might help undercut the pernicious effect of grading bias, a new study found: Articulate your standards clearly before you begin grading, and refer to the standards regularly during the assessment process.

In 2020, more than 1,500 teachers were recruited and asked to grade a writing sample from a fictional second-grade student. All of the sample stories were identical—but in one set, the student mentions a family member named Dashawn, while the other set references a sibling named Connor.

Teachers were 13 percent more likely to give the Connor papers a passing grade, revealing the invisible advantages that many students unknowingly benefit from. When grading criteria are vague, implicit stereotypes can insidiously “fill in the blanks,” explains the study’s author. But when teachers have an explicit set of criteria to evaluate the writing—asking whether the student “provides a well-elaborated recount of an event,” for example—the difference in grades is nearly eliminated.

5. What Do Coal-Fired Power Plants Have to Do With Learning? Plenty

When three coal-fired plants closed in the Chicago area, student absences in nearby schools dropped by 7 percent, a change largely driven by fewer emergency room visits for asthma-related problems. The stunning finding, published in a 2020 study from Duke and Penn State, underscores the role that often-overlooked environmental factors—like air quality, neighborhood crime, and noise pollution—have in keeping our children healthy and ready to learn.

At scale, the opportunity cost is staggering: About 2.3 million children in the United States still attend a public elementary or middle school located within 10 kilometers of a coal-fired plant.

The study builds on a growing body of research that reminds us that questions of educational equity do not begin and end at the schoolhouse door. What we call an achievement gap is often an equity gap, one that “takes root in the earliest years of children’s lives,” according to a 2017 study . We won’t have equal opportunity in our schools, the researchers admonish, until we are diligent about confronting inequality in our cities, our neighborhoods—and ultimately our own backyards.

6. Students Who Generate Good Questions Are Better Learners

Some of the most popular study strategies—highlighting passages, rereading notes, and underlining key sentences—are also among the least effective. A 2020 study highlighted a powerful alternative: Get students to generate questions about their learning, and gradually press them to ask more probing questions.

In the study, students who studied a topic and then generated their own questions scored an average of 14 percentage points higher on a test than students who used passive strategies like studying their notes and rereading classroom material. Creating questions, the researchers found, not only encouraged students to think more deeply about the topic but also strengthened their ability to remember what they were studying.

There are many engaging ways to have students create highly productive questions : When creating a test, you can ask students to submit their own questions, or you can use the Jeopardy! game as a platform for student-created questions.

7. Did a 2020 Study Just End the ‘Reading Wars’?

One of the most widely used reading programs was dealt a severe blow when a panel of reading experts concluded that it “would be unlikely to lead to literacy success for all of America’s public schoolchildren.”

In the 2020 study , the experts found that the controversial program—called “Units of Study” and developed over the course of four decades by Lucy Calkins at the Teachers College Reading and Writing Project—failed to explicitly and systematically teach young readers how to decode and encode written words, and was thus “in direct opposition to an enormous body of settled research.”

The study sounded the death knell for practices that de-emphasize phonics in favor of having children use multiple sources of information—like story events or illustrations—to predict the meaning of unfamiliar words, an approach often associated with “balanced literacy.” In an internal memo obtained by publisher APM, Calkins seemed to concede the point, writing that “aspects of balanced literacy need some ‘rebalancing.’”

8. A Secret to High-Performing Virtual Classrooms

In 2020, a team at Georgia State University compiled a report on virtual learning best practices. While evidence in the field is "sparse" and "inconsistent," the report noted that logistical issues like accessing materials—and not content-specific problems like failures of comprehension—were often among the most significant obstacles to online learning. It wasn’t that students didn’t understand photosynthesis in a virtual setting, in other words—it was that they didn’t find (or simply didn't access) the lesson on photosynthesis at all.

That basic insight echoed a 2019 study that highlighted the crucial need to organize virtual classrooms even more intentionally than physical ones. Remote teachers should use a single, dedicated hub for important documents like assignments; simplify communications and reminders by using one channel like email or text; and reduce visual clutter like hard-to-read fonts and unnecessary decorations throughout their virtual spaces.

Because the tools are new to everyone, regular feedback on topics like accessibility and ease of use is crucial. Teachers should post simple surveys asking questions like “Have you encountered any technical issues?” and “Can you easily locate your assignments?” to ensure that students experience a smooth-running virtual learning space.

9. Love to Learn Languages? Surprisingly, Coding May Be Right for You

Learning how to code more closely resembles learning a language such as Chinese or Spanish than learning math, a 2020 study found—upending the conventional wisdom about what makes a good programmer.

In the study, young adults with no programming experience were asked to learn Python, a popular programming language; they then took a series of tests assessing their problem-solving, math, and language skills. The researchers discovered that mathematical skill accounted for only 2 percent of a person’s ability to learn how to code, while language skills were almost nine times more predictive, accounting for 17 percent of learning ability.

That’s an important insight because all too often, programming classes require that students pass advanced math courses—a hurdle that needlessly excludes students with untapped promise, the researchers claim.

10. Researchers Cast Doubt on Reading Tasks Like ‘Finding the Main Idea’

“Content is comprehension,” declared a 2020 Fordham Institute study , sounding a note of defiance as it staked out a position in the ongoing debate over the teaching of intrinsic reading skills versus the teaching of content knowledge.

While elementary students spend an enormous amount of time working on skills like “finding the main idea” and “summarizing”—tasks born of the belief that reading is a discrete and trainable ability that transfers seamlessly across content areas—these young readers aren’t experiencing “the additional reading gains that well-intentioned educators hoped for,” the study concluded.

So what works? The researchers looked at data from more than 18,000 K–5 students, focusing on the time spent in subject areas like math, social studies, and ELA, and found that “social studies is the only subject with a clear, positive, and statistically significant effect on reading improvement.” In effect, exposing kids to rich content in civics, history, and law appeared to teach reading more effectively than our current methods of teaching reading. Perhaps defiance is no longer needed: Fordham’s conclusions are rapidly becoming conventional wisdom—and they extend beyond the limited claim of reading social studies texts. According to Natalie Wexler, the author of the well-received 2019 book The Knowledge Gap , content knowledge and reading are intertwined. “Students with more [background] knowledge have a better chance of understanding whatever text they encounter. They’re able to retrieve more information about the topic from long-term memory, leaving more space in working memory for comprehension,” she recently told Edutopia .

Why Do You Need to Find a Research Topic?

Before we get down to the top 10 research topics on student learning , let’s understand what they are. Research topics help students to drill down into a subject and break down a wide aspect into smaller things. The topics serve the purpose of bringing fresh perspectives to the table and point out a potential knowledge gap or core problem.

Research Topic vs. Research Question

Going by its definition, a research topic focuses on a broad theme that calls for deep investigation. On the other hand, a research question is a particular query that researchers use to find plausible answers and new scopes. While you may be busy finding the top 10 research topics for students in college or senior high school, always remember that the topic reflects an aspect of a subject.

How To Find Research Topics To Write About

The key to finding the top 10 research topics may leave you confused but don’t worry. The table below portrays the characteristics of interesting research paper topics that you must keep in mind:

What Makes a Good Research Topic

While we will give you some ideas about the top 10 research topics for students, you still need to pick one. However, getting closer to this topic may feel soul-crushing! Don’t worry; these tips will help you select good research project topics for students.

1. Focus on Personal Interests

Research paper topics for college students usually stem from what motivates them. If you are interested in a specific field, you can go forward with the topic as long as it is relevant to your field. However, this does not mean you can overlook potential biases - being too close to the subject might even lead you nowhere.

2. Check the Guidelines

When looking for the top 10 research topics for students, it’s imperative to adhere to guidelines laid out by your school. Sometimes, they approve good topics for research papers only if they are related to the public interest or environment. Ask your professor/mentor whether you need to follow certain guidelines while finding the best research titles for students.

3. Availability of Resources

Your research project might never see the daylight if you do not have enough resources available. Make sure the resources are within your limits! In case your research has funding, always check how you will be able to use it. Finances, access to participants, and timings are key factors in finalising among the top 10 research topics for students.

1. Psychology Research Paper Topics

Psychology papers offer an exciting opportunity to explore and understand the human psyche. Emerging technologies and their impact on mental health is one of the best research topics for college students, yet there is more you can explore. Below are some of the best research topics for college students:

1. The impact of social media on mental health among adolescents and young adults.

2. The potential benefits and risks of virtual reality therapy for mental health conditions.

3. The ethical considerations of using AI in psychological treatment.

4. The influence of mindfulness practices on cognitive performance and well-being.

5. The link between sleep quality and cognitive decline in ageing populations.

2. Business and Economics Research Topics

From sustainable business practices to global trade dynamics, the best research topics for college students regarding business and economics revolve around many areas. While you may initially find it challenging how to conduct research , you can draw inspiration from these topics for research paper:

1. The impact of AI on various aspects of business, such as marketing and financial analysis. 2. The ethical considerations and challenges associated with the use of big data and analytics in business practices. 3. The potential of blockchain technology to revolutionise supply chain management and improve data privacy. 4. The effectiveness of policy interventions to promote sustainable economic growth & development. 5. Exploring the factors that contribute to the success of startups and new ventures in the digital age.

While you find research topics, discover the best accommodation too!

3. Social Sciences Research Topics

Social sciences deal with the study of human behaviour and explore socioeconomic inequalities, political ideologies, urban development, and more. If you are looking for good ideas for a research paper regarding social sciences, here are some:

1. The effectiveness of different social policy interventions aimed at addressing global issues. 2. The potential of blockchain technology to improve transparency and accountability in social structures. 3. The social and ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in various aspects of life. 4. The psychological and social impacts of climate change on individuals and communities. 5. The increasing focus on interdisciplinary research that combines social science with data science.

4. Language and Linguistics Research Topics

From computational linguistics to semantics to language preservation, the field of language leads to some really good topics for research papers. While going through our list of top 10 research topics for students, you can already grasp that there are a few things to keep in mind when writing a college paper ! So, here are the best research topic ideas for students regarding language studies:

1. The influence of social media and digital communication on language use and evolution. 2. The impact of language learning apps and online platforms on pedagogy. 3. The role of language in perpetuating social inequalities. 4. The link between language and mental health in the context of cultural displacement. 5. The potential of multilingualism to enhance cognitive abilities.

5. Health and Medicine Research Topics

Finding the best research title ideas for students is daunting when it comes to a dynamic field like health and medicine. After going through this compilation of the top 10 research topics for students, you can understand how to come up with the right one. Here, based on the emerging areas of interest, we share some of the potentially impactful and the best research ideas for students:

1. The integration of AI in medical diagnosis and treatment. 2. Investigating the ethical considerations of using AI in the healthcare sector. 3. The developing field of preventive health measures and promoting healthy lifestyles. 4. The link between social determinants of health and mental well-being. 5. Improving access to healthcare and promoting health equity in minority communities.

6. Renewable Energy & Clean Technologies Research Topics

Initially, you might find it impossible to understand how to write a research paper for college , but these top 10 research topics for students will have you covered. Especially when your focus is on clean energy sources and the emission of greenhouse gases, there is a lot to cover nowadays. Here are some of the best research topics for students:

1. The potential of next-generation solar cell technologies. 2. The social and environmental aspects of renewable energy deployment. 3. Discovering the potential of decentralised energy systems. 4. The potential of hydrogen energy, including production, storage, and utilisation. 5. The impact of climate change on renewable energy resources.

7. Technology and Innovation Research Topics

The sector for technology is ever-evolving, with innovations taking place every other. With the emergence of IoT, artificial intelligence, and ML, the world of technology is your oyster. Here are the best research topics for students:

1. The societal implications of AI in healthcare, finance, and autonomous vehicles. 2. The potential of blockchain technology to revolutionise cybersecurity and voting systems. 3. Innovative solutions to combat climate change, including renewable energy technologies and sustainable infrastructure. 4. The role of technology in disaster preparedness and risk management. 5. The use of technology to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to information.

8. Arts and Design Research Topics

Whether your niche lies in art therapy, cultural studies in arts, or architecture innovation, there are interesting research paper topics. While exploring the top 10 research topics for students, constructing research may seem difficult – going through the research design - elements and characteristics can solve your problems. So, here are the best research topics for students in college:

1. The impact of AI on artistic creation. 2. The use of virtual reality and augmented reality in storytelling. 3. The role of art in addressing social and environmental challenges. 4. The use of art as a tool for social commentary and activism. 5. The evolving nature of art museums and galleries in the digital age.

9. Argumentative Research Topics

Building a specific argument and exploring topics can bring you some unique topics for research paper. Through these top 10 research topics for students, you can evaluate human interest on a global scale and beyond. Let’s have a look at these best research topics for students:

1. Is universal basic income a viable solution to poverty? 2. Is nuclear power a solution to the global energy crisis? 3. Does increased global cooperation offer a solution to climate change? 4. The impact of automation and AI on the future of work and employment. 5. The ethical implications of gene editing and other emerging biotechnologies.

10. Human Rights Research Paper Topics

Our list of top 10 research topics remains incomplete without human rights. This field is evolving and has become a growing interest for everyone around the world. If you want to probe questions about gender equality or privacy rights, here are a few of the research title examples for students:

1. The role of human rights defenders and activists in promoting social change. 2. The human rights of marginalised groups, such as LGBTQ+ individuals and people with disabilities. 3. The impact of AI on human rights, including issues of bias and discrimination. 4. Examining the ethical implications of facial recognition technology. 5. Exploring the human rights implications of environmental pollution and toxic waste disposal.

Now that you have an idea about some of the top 10 research topics for students, we hope you come up with an original one. Remember, successful research always starts with the right question. Take time, dig deep into the relevant theories, and find thought-provoking topics for research papers. Meanwhile, don’t overlook the power of how to write a research paper appendix and how to create the right structure for the paper. You can also check out amber+ for essential tools that can help make your thesis writing process smoother! So, happy researching! Also, dive into our exclusive visual guide to uncover intriguing research topics tailored for students like you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i get research ideas, what is a good research question, what constitutes a good research topic, how do i create a title for my research topic, what's the difference between a research topic and a research problem.

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1000+ FREE Research Topics & Title Ideas

Select your area of interest to view a collection of potential research topics and ideas.

Or grab the full list 📋 (for free)

PS – You can also check out our free topic ideation webinar for more ideas

How To Find A Research Topic

If you’re struggling to get started, this step-by-step video tutorial will help you find the perfect research topic.

Research Topic FAQs

What (exactly) is a research topic.

A research topic is the subject of a research project or study – for example, a dissertation or thesis. A research topic typically takes the form of a problem to be solved, or a question to be answered.

A good research topic should be specific enough to allow for focused research and analysis. For example, if you are interested in studying the effects of climate change on agriculture, your research topic could focus on how rising temperatures have impacted crop yields in certain regions over time.

To learn more about the basics of developing a research topic, consider our free research topic ideation webinar.

What constitutes a good research topic?

A strong research topic comprises three important qualities : originality, value and feasibility.

Originality – a good topic explores an original area or takes a novel angle on an existing area of study.
Value – a strong research topic provides value and makes a contribution, either academically or practically.
Feasibility – a good research topic needs to be practical and manageable, given the resource constraints you face.

To learn more about what makes for a high-quality research topic, check out this post .

What's the difference between a research topic and research problem?

A research topic and a research problem are two distinct concepts that are often confused. A research topic is a broader label that indicates the focus of the study , while a research problem is an issue or gap in knowledge within the broader field that needs to be addressed.

To illustrate this distinction, consider a student who has chosen “teenage pregnancy in the United Kingdom” as their research topic. This research topic could encompass any number of issues related to teenage pregnancy such as causes, prevention strategies, health outcomes for mothers and babies, etc.

Within this broad category (the research topic) lies potential areas of inquiry that can be explored further – these become the research problems . For example:

What factors contribute to higher rates of teenage pregnancy in certain communities?
How do different types of parenting styles affect teen pregnancy rates?
What interventions have been successful in reducing teenage pregnancies?

Simply put, a key difference between a research topic and a research problem is scope ; the research topic provides an umbrella under which multiple questions can be asked, while the research problem focuses on one specific question or set of questions within that larger context.

How can I find potential research topics for my project?

There are many steps involved in the process of finding and choosing a high-quality research topic for a dissertation or thesis. We cover these steps in detail in this video (also accessible below).

How can I find quality sources for my research topic?

Finding quality sources is an essential step in the topic ideation process. To do this, you should start by researching scholarly journals, books, and other academic publications related to your topic. These sources can provide reliable information on a wide range of topics. Additionally, they may contain data or statistics that can help support your argument or conclusions.

Identifying Relevant Sources

When searching for relevant sources, it’s important to look beyond just published material; try using online databases such as Google Scholar or JSTOR to find articles from reputable journals that have been peer-reviewed by experts in the field.

You can also use search engines like Google or Bing to locate websites with useful information about your topic. However, be sure to evaluate any website before citing it as a source—look for evidence of authorship (such as an “About Us” page) and make sure the content is up-to-date and accurate before relying on it.

Evaluating Sources

Once you’ve identified potential sources for your research project, take some time to evaluate them thoroughly before deciding which ones will best serve your purpose. Consider factors such as author credibility (are they an expert in their field?), publication date (is the source current?), objectivity (does the author present both sides of an issue?) and relevance (how closely does this source relate to my specific topic?).

By researching the current literature on your topic, you can identify potential sources that will help to provide quality information. Once you’ve identified these sources, it’s time to look for a gap in the research and determine what new knowledge could be gained from further study.

How can I find a good research gap?

Finding a strong gap in the literature is an essential step when looking for potential research topics. We explain what research gaps are and how to find them in this post.

How should I evaluate potential research topics/ideas?

When evaluating potential research topics, it is important to consider the factors that make for a strong topic (we discussed these earlier). Specifically:

Originality
Feasibility

So, when you have a list of potential topics or ideas, assess each of them in terms of these three criteria. A good topic should take a unique angle, provide value (either to academia or practitioners), and be practical enough for you to pull off, given your limited resources.

Finally, you should also assess whether this project could lead to potential career opportunities such as internships or job offers down the line. Make sure that you are researching something that is relevant enough so that it can benefit your professional development in some way. Additionally, consider how each research topic aligns with your career goals and interests; researching something that you are passionate about can help keep motivation high throughout the process.

How can I assess the feasibility of a research topic?

When evaluating the feasibility and practicality of a research topic, it is important to consider several factors.

First, you should assess whether or not the research topic is within your area of competence. Of course, when you start out, you are not expected to be the world’s leading expert, but do should at least have some foundational knowledge.

Time commitment

When considering a research topic, you should think about how much time will be required for completion. Depending on your field of study, some topics may require more time than others due to their complexity or scope.

Additionally, if you plan on collaborating with other researchers or institutions in order to complete your project, additional considerations must be taken into account such as coordinating schedules and ensuring that all parties involved have adequate resources available.

Resources needed

It’s also critically important to consider what type of resources are necessary in order to conduct the research successfully. This includes physical materials such as lab equipment and chemicals but can also include intangible items like access to certain databases or software programs which may be necessary depending on the nature of your work. Additionally, if there are costs associated with obtaining these materials then this must also be factored into your evaluation process.

Potential risks

It’s important to consider the inherent potential risks for each potential research topic. These can include ethical risks (challenges getting ethical approval), data risks (not being able to access the data you’ll need), technical risks relating to the equipment you’ll use and funding risks (not securing the necessary financial back to undertake the research).

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The 10 Education Issues Everybody Should Be Talking About

What issues have the potential to define—or re define—education in the year ahead? Is there a next “big thing” that could shift the K-12 experience or conversation?

These were the questions Education Week set out to answer in this second annual “10 Big Ideas in Education” report.

You can read about last year’s ideas here . In 2019, though, things are different.

This year, we asked Education Week reporters to read the tea leaves and analyze what was happening in classrooms, school districts, and legislatures across the country. What insights could reporters offer practitioners for the year ahead?

Some of the ideas here are speculative. Some are warning shots, others more optimistic. But all 10 of them here have one thing in common: They share a sense of urgency.

Accompanied by compelling illustrations and outside perspectives from leading researchers, advocates, and practitioners, this year’s Big Ideas might make you uncomfortable, or seem improbable. The goal was to provoke and empower you as you consider them.

Let us know what you think, and what big ideas matter to your classroom, school, or district. Tweet your comments with #K12BigIdeas .

No. 1: Kids are right. School is boring.

Illustration of a student who is bored in class

Out-of-school learning is often more meaningful than anything that happens in a classroom, writes Kevin Bushweller, the Executive Editor of EdWeek Market Brief. His essay tackling the relevance gap is accompanied by a Q&A with advice on nurturing, rather than stifling students’ natural curiosity. Read more.

No. 2: Teachers have trust issues. And it’s no wonder why.

Many teachers may have lost faith in the system, says Andrew Ujifusa, but they haven’t lost hope. The Assistant Editor unpacks this year’s outbreak of teacher activism. And read an account from a disaffected educator on how he built a coalition of his own. Read more.

No. 3: Special education is broken.

Conceptual Illustration of a special education puzzle with missing pieces

Forty years since students with disabilities were legally guaranteed a public school education, many still don’t receive the education they deserve, writes Associate Editor Christina A. Samuels. Delve into her argument and hear from a disability civil rights pioneer on how to create an equitable path for students. Read more.

No. 4: Schools are embracing bilingualism, but only for some students.

Staff Writer Corey Mitchell explains the inclusion problem at the heart of bilingual education. His essay includes a perspective from a researcher on dismantling elite bilingualism. Read more.

No. 5: A world without annual testing may be closer than you think.

There’s agreement that we have a dysfunctional standardized-testing system in the United States, Associate Editor Stephen Sawchuk writes. But killing it would come with some serious tradeoffs. Sawchuk’s musing on the alternatives to annual tests is accompanied by an argument for more rigorous classroom assignments by a teacher-practice expert. Read more.

No. 6: There are lessons to be learned from the educational experiences of black students in military families.

Drawing on his personal experience growing up in an Air Force family, Staff Writer Daarel Burnette II highlights emerging research on military-connected students. Learn more about his findings and hear from two researchers on what a new ESSA mandate means for these students. Read more.

No. 7: School segregation is not an intractable American problem.

Racial and economic segregation remains deeply entrenched in American schools. Staff Writer Denisa R. Superville considers the six steps one district is taking to change that. Her analysis is accompanied by an essay from the president of the American Educational Research Association on what is perpetuating education inequality. Read more.

No. 8: Consent doesn’t just belong in sex ed. class. It needs to start a lot earlier.

Assistant Editor Sarah D. Sparks looked at the research on teaching consent and found schools and families do way too little, way too late. Her report is partnered with a researcher’s practical guide to developmentally appropriate consent education. Read more.

No. 9: Education has an innovation problem.

Are education leaders spending too much time chasing the latest tech trends to maintain what they have? Staff Writer Benjamin Herold explores the innovation trap. Two technologists offer three tips for putting maintenance front and center in school management. Read more.

No. 10: There are two powerful forces changing college admissions.

Some colleges are rewriting the admissions script for potential students. Senior Contributing Writer Catherine Gewertz surveys this changing college admissions landscape. Her insights are accompanied by one teacher’s advice for navigating underserved students through the college application process. Read more.

Wait, there’s more.

Want to know what educators really think about innovation? A new Education Week Research Center survey delves into what’s behind the common buzzword for teachers, principals, and district leaders. Take a look at the survey results.

A version of this article appeared in the January 09, 2019 edition of Education Week as What’s on the Horizon for 2019?

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Elementary Education Research Paper Topics

This comprehensive guide to elementary education research paper topics is designed to assist students and researchers in the field of education. The guide provides a wide array of topics divided into ten categories, each with ten unique topics, offering a diverse range of areas to explore in the field of elementary education. Additionally, the guide offers expert advice on how to choose a research topic and how to write an elementary education research paper. The final sections of the guide introduce iResearchNet’s professional writing services and encourage students to take advantage of these services for their research needs.

100 Elementary Education Research Paper Topics

Elementary education is a broad field with numerous areas to explore. Whether you’re interested in teaching methods, curriculum development, educational technology, or the social aspects of elementary education, there’s a research topic for you. Here, we present a comprehensive list of elementary education research paper topics, divided into ten categories. Each category contains ten unique topics, offering a diverse range of areas to explore in your research.

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1. Teaching Methods and Strategies

The effectiveness of Montessori methods in elementary education.
The role of play in learning in the early years.
The impact of differentiated instruction on student achievement.
The benefits and challenges of cooperative learning in the elementary classroom.
The role of feedback in promoting student learning.
The impact of teaching strategies on students’ motivation.
The effectiveness of inquiry-based learning in science education.
The role of storytelling in teaching literacy skills.
The impact of technology on teaching and learning in the elementary classroom.
The role of creativity in teaching and learning.

2. Curriculum and Instruction

The impact of curriculum design on student learning.
The role of interdisciplinary teaching in elementary education.
The effectiveness of project-based learning in teaching science.
The role of cultural relevance in curriculum design.
The impact of standardized testing on curriculum and instruction.
The role of critical thinking in the elementary curriculum.
The effectiveness of integrating arts in the curriculum.
The impact of curriculum alignment on student achievement.
The role of experiential learning in the elementary curriculum.
The challenges of teaching social studies in the elementary classroom.

3. Educational Technology

The impact of digital technology on student learning.
The role of educational games in teaching math.
The effectiveness of using iPads in the classroom.
The role of virtual reality in teaching science.
The impact of technology on student engagement.
The challenges of integrating technology in the classroom.
The role of technology in promoting collaborative learning.
The effectiveness of using technology in teaching reading skills.
The impact of technology on teacher-student communication.
The role of technology in personalized learning.

4. Social Aspects of Elementary Education

The impact of classroom climate on student learning.
The role of social-emotional learning in elementary education.
The effectiveness of character education programs.
The role of peer relationships in student learning.
The impact of school culture on student achievement.
The challenges of teaching diversity and inclusion in the elementary classroom.
The role of student-teacher relationships in student learning.
The effectiveness of anti-bullying programs in elementary schools.
The impact of parental involvement on student achievement.
The role of community partnerships in promoting student learning.

5. Special Education

The effectiveness of inclusive education in the elementary classroom.
The role of individualized education programs in supporting students with special needs.
The impact of teacher training on the success of inclusive education.
The challenges of teaching students with learning disabilities.
The role of assistive technology in supporting students with special needs.
The effectiveness of earlyintervention programs for students with special needs.
The impact of classroom accommodations on the academic success of students with special needs.
The role of collaboration between general and special education teachers.
The effectiveness of behavior management strategies for students with emotional and behavioral disorders.
The impact of special education policies on student outcomes.

6. Early Childhood Education

The impact of early childhood education on academic success.
The role of play in early childhood education.
The effectiveness of early literacy programs.
The role of parental involvement in early childhood education.
The impact of early childhood education on social skills development.
The challenges of teaching math in early childhood education.
The role of creativity in early childhood education.
The effectiveness of early intervention programs.
The impact of early childhood education on cognitive development.
The role of teacher-child relationships in early childhood education.

7. Educational Policies and Reforms

The impact of No Child Left Behind on elementary education.
The role of Common Core State Standards in curriculum development.
The effectiveness of school choice policies.
The role of educational policies in promoting equity in education.
The impact of teacher evaluation policies on teaching and learning.
The challenges of implementing educational reforms in elementary schools.
The role of educational policies in promoting teacher quality.
The effectiveness of policies aimed at reducing the achievement gap.
The impact of educational funding policies on student achievement.
The role of educational policies in promoting parental involvement.

8. Teacher Education and Professional Development

The impact of teacher education programs on teacher effectiveness.
The role of ongoing professional development in promoting teacher quality.
The effectiveness of mentorship programs for novice teachers.
The role of reflective practice in teacher professional development.
The impact of teacher beliefs on teaching practices.
The challenges of teaching in high-needs schools.
The role of teacher collaboration in professional development.
The effectiveness of teacher induction programs.
The impact of teacher leadership on school improvement.
The role of teacher autonomy in promoting job satisfaction.

9. Classroom Management

The impact of classroom management strategies on student behavior.
The role of positive reinforcement in promoting appropriate behavior.
The effectiveness of classroom rules and procedures.
The role of teacher-student relationships in classroom management.
The impact of classroom environment on student learning.
The challenges of managing disruptive behavior.
The role of behavior management strategies in promoting a positive classroom climate.
The effectiveness of conflict resolution strategies in the classroom.
The impact of classroom management on student engagement.
The role of classroom routines in promoting student responsibility.

10. Assessment and Evaluation

The impact of formative assessment on student learning.
The role of feedback in student assessment.
The effectiveness of performance-based assessment.
The role of self-assessment in promoting student learning.
The impact of standardized testing on teaching and learning.
The challenges of assessing student learning in diverse classrooms.
The role of assessment in curriculum planning.
The effectiveness of portfolio assessment.
The impact of grading policies on student motivation.
The role of assessment in identifying students at risk of academic failure.

This comprehensive list of elementary education research paper topics provides a wide range of areas to explore. Whether you’re interested in teaching methods, curriculum development, educational technology, or the social aspects of elementary education, there’s a research topic for you. Remember, the best research topic is one that you’re genuinely interested in and passionate about.

Elementary Education Research Guide

Elementary education, also known as primary education, is a crucial stage in the educational journey of a child. It is during these formative years that children acquire foundational skills in areas such as reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. Additionally, they develop critical thinking skills, creativity, and social competencies that are essential for their overall growth and development.

Elementary education serves as the building block for all future learning. The experiences and knowledge gained during these years can significantly influence a child’s attitude towards learning, their academic success, and their lifelong learning habits. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that children receive quality education during these years.

Research in elementary education is of paramount importance. It helps educators, policymakers, and stakeholders understand the best practices, methodologies, and strategies to enhance learning outcomes in primary education. It also provides insights into the challenges faced in elementary education and how to address them effectively.

Elementary education research paper topics can span a wide range of areas, including teaching methods, learning styles, the impact of technology on learning, educational policies, classroom management, and many more. Choosing a research topic in this field requires careful consideration of various factors, including your interests, the relevance of the topic, and the availability of resources.

In the following sections, we provide a comprehensive list of elementary education research paper topics, expert advice on choosing a topic and writing a research paper, and information about iResearchNet’s professional writing services. Whether you are a student embarking on your first research project or a seasoned researcher looking for new areas to explore, this guide is designed to assist you in your research journey.

Choosing Elementary Education Research Paper Topics

Choosing a research topic is a critical step in the research process. The topic you select will guide your study, influence the complexity and relevance of your work, and determine how engaged you are throughout the process. In the field of elementary education, there are numerous intriguing topics that can be explored. Here are some expert tips to assist you in this process:

Understanding Your Interests: The first step in choosing a research topic is to understand your interests. What areas of elementary education fascinate you the most? Are you interested in how teaching methods influence student learning, or are you more intrigued by the role of technology in the classroom? Reflecting on these questions can help you narrow down your options and choose a topic that truly engages you. Remember, research is a time-consuming process, and your interest in the topic will keep you motivated.
Evaluating the Scope of the Topic: Once you have identified your areas of interest, the next step is to evaluate the scope of potential elementary education research paper topics. A good research topic should be neither too broad nor too narrow. If it’s too broad, you may struggle to cover all aspects of the topic effectively. If it’s too narrow, you may have difficulty finding enough information to support your research. Try to choose a topic that is specific enough to be manageable but broad enough to have sufficient resources.
Assessing Available Resources and Data: Before finalizing a topic, it’s important to assess the available resources and data. Are there enough academic sources, such as books, journal articles, and reports, that you can use for your research? Is there accessible data that you can analyze if your research requires it? A preliminary review of literature and data can save you from choosing a topic with limited resources.
Considering the Relevance and Applicability of the Topic: Another important factor to consider is the relevance and applicability of the topic. Is the topic relevant to current issues in elementary education? Can the findings of your research be applied in real-world settings? Choosing a relevant and applicable topic can increase the impact of your research and make it more interesting for your audience.
Seeking Advice: Don’t hesitate to seek advice from your professors, peers, or other experts in the field. They can provide valuable insights, suggest resources, and help you refine your topic. Discussing your ideas with others can also help you see different perspectives and identify potential issues that you may not have considered.
Flexibility: Finally, be flexible. Research is a dynamic process, and it’s okay to modify your topic as you delve deeper into your study. You may discover new aspects of the topic that are more interesting or find that some aspects are too challenging to explore due to constraints. Being flexible allows you to adapt your research to these changes and ensure that your study is both feasible and engaging.

Remember, choosing a research topic is not a decision to be taken lightly. It requires careful consideration and planning. However, with these expert tips, you can navigate this process more effectively and choose an elementary education research paper topic that not only meets your academic requirements but also fuels your passion for learning.

How to Write an Elementary Education Research Paper

Writing a research paper is a significant academic task that requires careful planning, thorough research, and meticulous writing. In the field of elementary education, this process can be particularly challenging due to the complexity and diversity of the field. However, with the right approach and strategies, you can write a compelling and insightful research paper. Here are some expert tips to guide you through this process:

Understanding the Structure of a Research Paper: A typical research paper includes an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. The introduction presents your research question and its significance. The literature review provides an overview of existing research related to your topic. The methodology explains how you conducted your research. The results section presents your findings, and the discussion interprets these findings in the context of your research question. Finally, the conclusion summarizes your research and suggests areas for future research.
Developing a Strong Thesis Statement: Your thesis statement is the central argument of your research paper. It should be clear, concise, and debatable. A strong thesis statement guides your research and helps your readers understand the purpose of your paper.
Conducting Thorough Research: Before you start writing, conduct a thorough review of the literature related to your topic. This will help you understand the current state of research in your area, identify gaps in the literature, and position your research within this context. Use academic databases to find relevant books, journal articles, and other resources. Remember to evaluate the credibility of your sources and take detailed notes to help you when writing.
Writing and Revising Drafts: Start writing your research paper by creating an outline based on the structure of a research paper. This will help you organize your thoughts and ensure that you cover all necessary sections. Write a first draft without worrying too much about perfection. Focus on getting your ideas down first. Then, revise your draft to improve clarity, coherence, and argumentation. Make sure each paragraph has a clear topic sentence and supports your thesis statement.
Proper Citation and Avoiding Plagiarism: Always cite your sources properly to give credit to the authors whose work you are building upon and to avoid plagiarism. Familiarize yourself with the citation style required by your institution or discipline, such as APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, or Harvard. There are many citation tools available online that can help you with this.
Seeking Feedback: Don’t hesitate to seek feedback on your drafts from your professors, peers, or writing centers at your institution. They can provide valuable insights and help you improve your paper.
Proofreading: Finally, proofread your paper to check for any grammatical errors, typos, or inconsistencies in formatting. A well-written, error-free paper makes a good impression on your readers and enhances the credibility of your research.
Incorporating Elementary Education Concepts: When writing an elementary education research paper, it’s crucial to accurately incorporate elementary education concepts. Make sure you understand these concepts thoroughly and can explain them clearly in your paper. Use examples where appropriate to illustrate these concepts.
Analyzing and Interpreting Data: If your research involves data analysis, be sure to explain your analysis process and interpret the results in a way that is understandable to your readers. Discuss the implications of your findings for the broader field of elementary education.
Discussing Real-World Applications: Elementary education is a practical field with many real-world applications. Discuss how your research relates to these applications. This can make your research more interesting and relevant to your readers.

Remember, writing a research paper is a process that requires time, effort, and patience. Don’t rush through it.Take the time to plan your research, conduct thorough research, write carefully, and revise your work. With these expert tips, you can write an elementary education research paper that is insightful, well-structured, and contributes to the field of elementary education.

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See the Research

Safety in Numbers is a monthly newsletter highlighting the latest research at Everytown

Part One: Gun Violence Prevention

Reducing the risk.

Executive Summary

The prevention section of the NEA School Gun Violence Prevention and Response Guide highlights recommended strategies to reduce the risk and prevent the occurrence of gun violence incidents in education settings and communities. It includes taking actions to foster a positive and safe climate and limit access to firearms that could be used in acts of violence. For broader context and related recommendations, consult the other sections of this guide: Introduction , Part Two—Preparation , Part Three—Response , and Part Four—Recovery .

Key Takeaways

Across all education settings, prevention efforts should be geared toward creating an environment that fosters trust-building, connection, and a sense of belonging for students. These efforts should include the use of trauma-informed and restorative practices.
Educators can play a pivotal role in breaking the cycle of trauma and fostering a positive school climate, but their efforts must be supported with adequate funding and sufficient staffing.
Promoting the adoption of gun violence-related bargaining language and administrative policy, including the creation or enhancement of health and safety committees, is another effective way to prevent gun violence.

Trauma-informed and restorative practices play a crucial role in maintaining strong connections between students, their peers, and educators within the school community. Across all education settings, prevention efforts are geared toward creating an environment that fosters trust-building and a sense of belonging for students.

Combating feelings of isolation and alienation among students relates directly to preventing gun violence because the majority of Pre-K–12 and higher education shooters maintained some level of affiliation with their educational institutions. Individuals who carried out a mass shooting in a Pre-K–12 school often exhibited behaviors of concern in advance, and 75 percent of the time at least one person, often a peer, was aware of the plan. 1 National Threat Assessment Center. (2019). Protecting America’s Schools: A U.S. Secret Service Analysis of Targeted School Violence. Retrieved February 14, 2024, from https://www.secretservice.gov/sites/default/files/2020-04/Protecting_Americas_Schools.pdf ; Violence Prevention Project. (n.d.). Key Findings. Retrieved February 18, 2024, from Violence Prevention Project: https://www.theviolenceproject.org/key-findings/ .

Educators can play a pivotal role in breaking the cycle of trauma and fostering a positive school climate. Recognizing warning signs, having resources to address students’ mental health and emotional needs, and ensuring that racial profiling does not take place in the process are crucial to preventing gun violence in education settings. To achieve these goals, adequate funding and sufficient staffing must be available. Recognizing the warning signs is only a part of the solution; reducing access to guns is also critical.

This section also includes recommendations for the broader community. Anonymous reporting systems have demonstrated effectiveness, providing students and other community members with a trusted avenue to raise concerns related to student wellness and safety. These systems also serve as alerts for mental health professionals regarding interpersonal violence and suicide risks.

Considering that 4.6 million children under the age of 18 live in homes with guns, secure storage interventions play a critical role in overall school safety. 2 Miller, M., & Azrael, D. (2022, February 22). Firearm Storage in US Households with Children: Findings from the 2021 National Firearm Survey. JAMA Network Open, 5(2), e2148823. doi:doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.48823 Additionally, community-based intervention programs offer services to students off school grounds and while traveling to and from school.

The evidence indicates that arming educators does not enhance student safety. In fact, it compromises the safe and trusting environment necessary to thwart gun violence, introducing new liability risks and complicating law enforcement responses in the event of an active shooter incident. 3 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund (2024). Stop Arming Teachers. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund: https://everytownresearch.org/solution/arming-teachers . In contrast, commonsense gun laws are essential for saving lives. Effective measures include:

Require background checks on all gun sales, an approach proven to reduce gun violence;
Pass Extreme Risk/red flag laws to provide a way for family members and law enforcement to petition a court to remove firearms from a person at risk of causing harm without a criminal proceeding;
Pass secure firearm storage laws to prevent unauthorized access by children by requiring gun owners to lock up their firearms, which has been shown to prevent unintentional shootings and firearm suicides;
Raise the age to purchase semi-automatic firearms to 21 to prevent potential younger shooters from easily obtaining such firearms;
Prohibit guns on college campuses where legally viable to do so ; and
Prohibit assault weapons and high-capacity magazines , which allow shooters to fire more rounds over a short period of time and inflict more gunshot wounds during an attack.

Promoting the adoption of gun violence-related collective bargaining language and administrative policy, including the creation or enhancement of health and safety committees, is another effective way to combat gun violence. Bargaining language and administrative policy also offer important opportunities to enhance mental health supports and professional development on topics including trauma-informed crisis intervention and restorative practices.

Prevention Checklists for State and Local Affiliates

These checklists can be downloaded and used to help guide state and local affiliates as they develop their own gun violence prevention and response plans.

According to the American Psychological Association, “A complex and variable constellation of risk and protective factors makes persons more or less likely to use a firearm against themselves or others. For this reason, there is no single profile that can reliably predict who will use a gun in a violent act. Instead, gun violence is associated with a confluence of individual, family, school, peer, community, and sociocultural risk factors that interact over time during childhood and adolescence.” 4 American Psychological Association. (2013). Gun Violence: Prediction, Prevention, and Policy. Retrieved February 17, 2024, from https://www.apa.org/pubs/reports/gun-violence-prevention .

Given this complexity, taking meaningful actions to keep our students, educators, and surrounding communities safe must begin from an understanding of four key facts about gun violence in education settings.

Four Key Facts About Gun Violence in Education Settings

Shooters often have a connection to the pre-k–12 school or institution of higher education.

In the Everytown for Gun Safety’s Gunfire on School Grounds database, 60 percent of school-age shooters were current or former students of the Pre-K–12 school, including all shooters involved in mass shootings and nearly all in self-harm incidents (96 percent) and unintentional discharges of a gun (91 percent). 1 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2022). How to Stop Shootings and Gun Violence in Schools. Retrieved February 17, 2024, from https://everytownresearch.org/report/how-to-stop-shootings-and-gun-violence-in-schools/ . For example, Everytown analyzed the New York City Police Department’s review of active shooter incidents in K–12 schools over the five-decade period from 1966 to 2016, finding that in 3 out of 4 of these incidents, the shooter or shooters were school-age and were current or former students. 2 New York City Police Department. (2016). Active Shooter: Recommendations and Analysis for Risk Mitigation. Retrieved February 17, 2024, from https://www.nyc.gov/assets/nypd/downloads/pdf/counterterrorism/active-shooter-analysis2016.pdf . Similarly, the Violence Prevention Project found 89 percent of shooters at colleges and universities had a connection to the institution. 3 Violence Prevention Project. (n.d.). Key Findings. Retrieved February 18, 2024, from Violence Prevention Project: https://www.theviolenceproject.org/key-findings/ . These data suggest the need for comprehensive strategies that combine prevention, mental health support, and crisis response to effectively tackle school gun violence.

Guns Discharged in Pre-K–12 Schools Generally Come from the Home of a Parent or Close Relative

School-age shooters generally do not purchase the weapon or weapons used. In a study of targeted K–12 school violence from 2008 to 2017, the U.S. Secret Service noted that 3 out of 4 shooters acquired their firearm from the home of a parent or close relative. 1 National Threat Assessment Center. (2019). Protecting America’s Schools: A U.S. Secret Service Analysis of Targeted School Violence. Retrieved February 14, 2024, from https://www.secretservice.gov/sites/default/files/2020-04/Protecting_Americas_Schools.pdf . This was the case, for example, with the Oxford High School shooting on November 30, 2021, in Michigan. 2 Albeck-Ripka, L., & Kasakove, S. (2021, December 19). What We Know About the Michigan High School Shooting. The New York Times. Retrieved February 14, 2024, from https://www.nytimes.com/article/oxford-school-shooting-michigan.html .

There Are Nearly Always Warning Signs

Warning signs of school shootings, if appropriately identified, can offer an opportunity for intervention beforehand. However—as discussed in more detail in the sections that follow on trauma-informed intervention practices and restorative disciplinary practices—identifying and intervening based on advanced indicators is essential but must be done without perpetuating adverse racial stereotypes, targeting those that demonstrate behavioral concerns, or compromising the trust and emotional safety of a school environment.

The U.S. Secret Service study of targeted school violence from 2008 to 2017 found that 100 percent of the perpetrators showed behaviors of concern and 77 percent of the time at least one person—most often a peer—knew about their plan. 1 National Threat Assessment Center. (2019). Protecting America’s Schools: A U.S. Secret Service Analysis of Targeted School Violence. Retrieved February 14, 2024, from https://www.secretservice.gov/sites/default/files/2020-04/Protecting_Americas_Schools.pdf . In the higher education context, about 44 percent of people who perpetrated mass shootings had communicated their intent in advance. 2 Peterson, J., & et al. (2021). Community of Intent to Do Harm Preceding Mass Public Shootings in the United States, 1966-2019. JAMA Network Open, 4(11). doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.33073.

These data suggest that fostering a trusting and emotionally safe climate where students are willing to ask adults for help and report any statements and behaviors of concern, such as gun threats on social media or weapons carrying, can be effective tools for prevention. Addressing warning signs and taking immediate action while also ensuring that racial profiling is never supported or permitted is essential.

The Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting on December 14, 2012, in Connecticut, underscores the importance of intervening when possible to stop violence before it happens. The official investigation revealed that there were several instances of the shooter’s prior behavior that were concerning. For example, when the shooter was in seventh grade, a teacher reported that “his writing assignments obsessed about battles, destruction and war, far more than others his age. The level of violence in the writing was disturbing.” 3 Sedensky, S. J. (2013). Report of the State’s Attorney for the Judicial District of Danbury on the Shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School and 36 Yogananda Street, Newtown, Connecticut on December 14, 2012. Retrieved February 17, 2024, from https://schoolshooters.info/sites/default/files/Official_Sandy_Hook_Report.pdf .

Gun Violence in U.S. Schools Disproportionately Affects Students of Color

In the shooting incidents where the Everytown Support Fund was able to identify the racial makeup of the student body, 2 out of 3 incidents occurred in majority-minority schools. 1 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2022). How to Stop Shootings and Gun Violence in Schools. Retrieved February 17, 2024, from https://everytownresearch.org/report/how-to-stop-shootings-and-gun-violence-in-schools/ . Although Black students represent approximately 15 percent of the total K–12 school population in the United States, 2 National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education. (2020, September). State Nonfiscal Survey of Public Elementary and Secondary Education, 1998-99 Through 2018-19; National Elementary and Secondary Enrollment by Race/Ethnicity Project Model,1972 Through 2029, Common Core Data (CCD). Retrieved February 17, 2024, from National Center for Education Statistics: https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d20/tables/dt20_203.60.asp?current=yes . they make up 30 percent of the average population at schools that have been affected by a fatal shooting. 3 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2022). How to Stop Shootings and Gun Violence in Schools. Retrieved February 17, 2024, from https://everytownresearch.org/report/how-to-stop-shootings-and-gun-violence-in-schools/ . While perpetrators of mass shootings in schools have tended to be White, and mass shootings are often portrayed in media coverage as occurring predominantly in schools with a majority of White students, gunfire on school grounds disproportionately affects students of color.

Adverse Childhood Experiences, Childhood Trauma, Grief, and Toxic Stress

Gun violence—in a community, a home environment, or an education setting—can be a factor that produces trauma and stress for children and adults. A 2021 analysis of mass shooting data showed that a majority of mass shooters experienced early childhood trauma and exposure to violence at a young age and had an identifiable grievance or crisis event. 5 Shahid, S., & Duzor, M. (2021, June 1). VOA Special Report: History of Mass Shooters. Voice of America News. Retrieved February 22, 2024, from https://projects.voanews.com/mass-shootings/ . NEA’s website provides additional information on toxic stress and trauma . Therefore, it is important to understand the potential impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and toxic stress when addressing an incident of gun violence. Educators can play a pivotal role in breaking the cycle of trauma through early detection and focused support. To achieve this goal, state legislatures must fully fund and staff schools so that educators have the time and attention to recognize early warning signs and take action to address students’ needs.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 64 percent of adults in the United States reported having at least one type of adverse childhood experience (ACE) before the age of 18. The CDC also noted that ACE events are typically the result of violence, abuse, neglect, and environmental factors that expose children to substance use, mental health-related issues, and parental separation. 6 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Fast Facts: Preventing Adverse Childhood Experiences. Retrieved February 22, 2024, from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces/fastfact.html .

Trauma occurs when someone feels threatened by serious harm, whether it is physical, mental, or emotional. While not all ACEs lead to childhood trauma, people who suffer from one or more such adversities may experience a negative impact on their overall well-being, education, and career. Researchers have found that trauma can change the brain and the body’s makeup, which can lead to diseases like obesity, heart disease, diabetes, asthma, and mental health disorders. 7 Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (2014). Chapter 3. Understanding the Impact of Trauma. In Trauma-Informed Care in Behavioral Health Services (Vols. Treatment Improvement Protocol, No. 57). Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Retrieved February 22, 2024, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK207191/ . Neuropsychologists have found that traumatic experiences can, in fact, alter a child’s brain, activating its “fight, flight, or freeze” responses and reducing the areas where learning, especially in regard to language, occurs. When this shift happens repeatedly, it fundamentally changes the brain, particularly for children under the age of 5, to adapt and survive under the worst conditions. 8 Flannery, Mary Ellen. (2016, May 17). How Trauma Is Changing Children’s Brains. NEA Today. Retrieved February 18, 2024, from NEA Today: https://www.nea.org/nea-today/all-news-articles/how-trauma-changing-childrens-brains .

The ongoing presence of ACEs may also contribute to toxic stress. The American Academy of Pediatrics defines “toxic stress” as prolonged or significant adversity in the absence of mitigating social-emotional buffers, such as a supportive adult. This kind of persistent activation of the stress response systems can result in a wide array of biological changes that occur at the molecular, cellular, and behavioral levels; disrupt the development of brain architecture; and increase the risk for stress-related disease and cognitive impairment well into adulthood. 9 Garner, A., & Yogman, M. (2021, August). Preventing Childhood Toxic Stress: Partnering with Families and Communities to Promote Relationship Health. Pediatrics, 148(2), e2021052582. https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/148/2/e2021052582/179805/Preventing-Childhood-Toxic-Stress-Partnering-With?autologincheck=redirected .

Experiencing adversity, including trauma and toxic stress, can significantly shape an individual’s health and life outcomes. Childhood trauma can also negatively affect the mental health of and educational outcomes for higher education students. 10 Lecy, N., & Osteen, P. (2022). The Effects of Childhood Trauma on College Completion. 63, 1058-1072. doi: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11162-022-09677-9 ; Assari, S., & Landarani, M. M. (2018). Violence Exposure and Mental Health of College Students in the United States. Behavioral Sciences, 8(6), 53. doi: https://doi.org/10.3390/bs8060053 .

Many other factors have been proven to cause toxic stress, including poverty, racism, bullying, community violence, and generational (historical) trauma. 11 Cronholm, P., & et al. (2015, September). Adverse Childhood Experiences Expanding the Concept of Adversity. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 49(3), 354-361. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amepre.2015.02.001 ; Garner, A., & Yogman, M. (2021, August). Preventing Childhood Toxic Stress: Partnering with Families and Communities to Promote Relationship Health. Pediatrics, 148(2), e2021052582. https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/148/2/e2021052582/179805/Preventing-Childhood-Toxic-Stress-Partnering-With?autologincheck=redirected . According to researchers at the Center for the Developing Child at Harvard University, ACEs-generated trauma includes community and systemic threats from inside or outside the home environment because the brain recognizes a present threat and goes on high alert. 12 Center on the Developing Child. (2020, October 30). ACEs and Toxic Stress: Frequently Asked Questions. Retrieved from Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University: https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/aces-and-toxic-stress-frequently-asked-questions/ .

Childhood bereavement can also have a significant impact on children’s health and well-being. “The death of someone close to a child has a profound and lifelong effect on the child and may result in a range of both and short and long-term reactions.” 13 Schonfeld, D. J., & Demaria, T. (2016). Supporting the Griefing Child and Family. Pediatrics. Retrieved June 10, 2024, from https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2016-2147 . Schools can learn more about the impact of bereavement and becoming grief-sensitive schools to better support student learning and development. Organizations, such as The Coalition to Support Grieving Students , provide resources to assist schools in becoming grief-sensitive.

Debunking Myths and Misconceptions About Gun Violence

The only way to stop a “bad guy” with a gun is a “good guy” with a gun.

If more guns everywhere made us safer, the United States would be the safest country in the world. Instead, we have a gun homicide rate 26 times that of other high-income countries. 1 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2023). Gun Violence in America. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from https://everytownresearch.org/report/gun-violence-in-america/ .

Myth & Fact

I don’t own a gun, so I don’t need to worry about my kids getting ahold of one.

More than 60 percent of unintentional gun deaths among children involve a gun belonging to a family member of the shooter. 1 Wilson, R. F. (2023). Unintentional Firearm Injury Deaths Among Children and Adolescents Aged 0–17 Years — National Violent Death Reporting System, United States, 2003–2021. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), 72(50), 1338-1345. In the United States, 4.6 million children under the age of 18 live in a household with at least one loaded, unsecured gun, 2 Miller, M., & Azrael, D. (2022, February 22). Firearm Storage in US Households with Children: Findings from the 2021 National Firearm Survey. JAMA Network Open, 5(2), e2148823. doi:doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.48823 but research also suggests that school shooters under the age of 18 predominantly obtain their guns from family, relatives, or friends. 3 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2022). How to Stop Shootings and Gun Violence in Schools. Retrieved February 17, 2024, from https://everytownresearch.org/report/how-to-stop-shootings-and-gun-violence-in-schools/ . As a result, children may be able to get ahold of a gun even if no one in their household owns one.

Arming educators will keep our kids safer.

Research suggests that the presence of a gun may potentially increase the risks posed to children. Many school safety experts and law enforcement groups oppose arming teachers, as does the NEA. 1 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2024-d). Stop Arming Teachers. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund: https://everytownresearch.org/solution/arming-teachers . Law enforcement officers receive hundreds of hours of training in areas including firearm proficiency and active shooter response. Training requirements for educators are often a fraction of the training hours required by police officers.

Criminals will always find a way to get their hands on a gun.

Laws like background checks stop gun sales to people legally prohibited from buying guns. This includes people with felony convictions, domestic abuse restraining orders, and others. Since 1994, these laws have blocked more than 4 million gun sales to people who could not legally own guns. 1 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2024-h). Background Checks on All Gun Sales. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from Everytown for Gun Safety: https://www.everytown.org/solutions/background-checks/ ; Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2021-c). Undeniable: How Long-Standing Loopholes in the Background Check System Have Been Exacerbated by COVID-19. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from https://everytownresearch.org/report/background-check-loopholes/ .

Prevention Strategies

Education settings at all levels must establish safe, supportive, nurturing environments where students can thrive. Strategies including trauma-informed crisis intervention programs and active engagement with students and their families are essential to gun violence prevention. In addition, community violence intervention programs that integrate mental health and emotional supports help address the systemic and underlying factors that can lead to gun violence.

Foster Safe and Supportive School Climates

When schools are adaptable to the needs of their students, educators, families, and community, they can provide students with care and compassion and create conditions that prevent shootings and other violence. For example, a community school that has high levels of violence inside or outside the school building may fund programs that create safe walking and transportation routes to and from school, often referred to as safe passage; grant alternatives to out-of-school suspensions that offer meaningful educational opportunities for students; provide family counseling; increase access to mentoring, both inside and outside of school; and incorporate restorative justice into disciplinary policies. NEA’s website includes additional information on community schools .

Students are often the first to notice signs that a peer is in crisis, has brought a weapon to school, or has shared plans to commit a violent act; however, they are sometimes reluctant to share these observations—or their own personal struggles and needs—with adults they do not trust. Students may be reluctant to relay information that might help avert a gun violence incident because of fear of getting in trouble, being labeled a “tattletale,” or not being believed or taken seriously. A pre-established relationship of trust with at least one educator increases students’ willingness to report potential incidents or identify bullying or violence they experience or witness. 14 Volungis, A. M., & Goodman, K. (2017). School Violence Prevention: Teachers Establishing Relationships with Students Using Counseling Strategies. Sage Open, 7(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.1177/2158244017700460 .

Many education support professionals (ESPs) live in the same community as their students and are often trusted confidants; they play a key role in the preventative and intervention actions. ESPs—including, but not limited to, custodial and maintenance, food service, clerical, security, and transportation professionals—are often the first to confront a shooter. Indeed, almost half of NEA ESP members—48 percent—spend a great deal of their time promoting school safety. The job responsibilities of another 28 percent are somewhat related to promoting such work.

To build trust, educators must have cultural competency to counteract unconscious bias and reduce the risk of biased decision-making that can impede a student’s ability to trust them.

An all-staff activity called Know Me, Know My Name is an example of an effective way to identify students who may need support but go unseen. 15 Illinois Education Association. (n.d.). Retrieved from Know Me, Know My Name: https://ieanea.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Know-me-know-my-name-plan-1.pdf . Low-cost and relatively simple, the activity helps educators identify children who may need adult intervention via outreach and relationship-building, encompassing the ideals of safe, stable, and nurturing relationships (SSNR). SSNRs help interrupt cycles of violence and reduce the impact of students’ exposure to abuse and neglect. The Harvard School of Education also developed relationship mapping , which is another example of this type of activity. 16 Harvard Graduate School of Education. (n.d.). Retrieved from Relationship Mapping Strategy: https://mcc.gse.harvard.edu/resources-for-educators/relationship-mapping-strategy .

The Importance of Connections in Higher Education

Compelling evidence indicates that students at institutions of higher education who felt connected to individual staff and/or faculty experienced multiple positive outcomes, including those related to emotional well-being. Students are also less likely to experience substance and alcohol use and have better health outcomes. Connectedness is especially crucial for first-year students; perceived decreases (from high school) in social connectedness can lead to heightened feelings of loneliness and anxiety. These positive connections had little to do with an educator’s teaching style or pedagogy but with their ability to care about their students as people. 1 Morgan, E., & et al. (2014). The School Discipline Consensus Report: Strategies from the Field to Keep Students Engaged in School and Out of the Juvenile Justice System. U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from https://www.ojp.gov/library/publications/school-discipline-consensus-report-strategies-field-keep-students-engaged .

Implement Trauma-Informed and Grief-Sensitive Crisis Intervention and Restorative Disciplinary Practices

Students who commit acts of gun-related violence in schools almost always have shown warning signs that concerned other people around them. 17 National Threat Assessment Center. (2019). p. 58, Protecting America’s Schools: A U.S. Secret Service Analysis of Targeted School Violence. Retrieved February 14, 2024, from https://www.secretservice.gov/sites/default/files/2020-04/Protecting_Americas_Schools.pdf . Therefore, identifying students who may need support to prevent a crisis from becoming violent while ensuring that racial profiling and other biased actions are neither supported nor permitted is key to preventing gun violence in schools.

To respond to signs of distress in a manner that serves students and protects the community, schools can convene a multidisciplinary team that uses trauma-informed and grief-sensitive crisis intervention practices in collaboration with other community partners. A School Improvement Team, Resilience Team, Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) Team, or other such entities that may already exist could potentially serve this function. Whatever its name, such a team would receive information about a student who may be in crisis, evaluate the situation, design interventions to prevent violence, and provide appropriate in-school engagement, support, and resources. Every team that addresses crisis intervention should include ESPs; however, ESP membership must be voluntary. Every school community is different, so team structures and functions must be designed and implemented based on the unique needs of the student body and the broader school community.

Behavioral threat assessments are frequently used to identify students who are at risk of committing violence and get them the help they need. These programs generally consist of multidisciplinary teams that are specifically trained to intervene at the earliest warning signs of potential violence and divert those who would do harm to themselves or others to appropriate treatment. NEA opposes “behavioral threat assessment programs and approaches that disproportionately target Native students and students of color.” 18 NEA. (2023). Legislative Program. Reference I.E.41. Retrieved from https://www.nea.org/about-nea/governance-policies/nea-legislative-program . The Association urges all school community members to be prepared to ensure that if they use behavioral threat assessments, they achieve their desired outcomes without adverse racial impact. If such assessments are in use, they must be properly resourced, including with release time for the counselors, nurses, or other educators who serve on a team conducting behavioral threat assessments.

NEA does not believe that the criminalization and over-policing of students is the right approach to addressing gun violence in education settings. Research shows that exclusionary discipline programs, including zero-tolerance policies, disproportionately impact students of color and contribute to the school-to-prison pipeline, including through their subjective application toward students of color. 19 Ford, S. (2021). Learning While Black: How “Zero Tolerance” Policies Disproportionately Affect Black Students. University of Florida Journal of Law & Public Policy, 32(1), 49-70. Retrieved February 22, 2024. Zero-tolerance policies and harsh disciplinary practices result in negative academic outcomes for students given that school suspensions are a stronger predictor of dropping out of school than grade-point average and socioeconomic status. 20 Suh, S., & Suh, J. (2007). Risk Factors and Levels of Risk for High School Dropouts. Professional School Counseling, 10(3). doi: https://doi.org/10.1177/2156759X0701000312 . Furthermore, a longitudinal study done with children ages 9 and 10 found that “enforcing these kinds of disciplinary actions can impair typical childhood development, leading to academic failure, student dropout, and emotional and psychological distress, disproportionately affecting Black children, multiracial Black children, and children from single-parent homes. 21 Fadus, M., & et al. (2021, August). Racial Disparities in Elementary School Disciplinary Actions: Findings from the ABCD Study. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychology, 60(8), 998-1009. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaac.2020.11.017 .

By contrast, NEA emphasizes the use of behavioral practices centered in restorative justice and the elimination of inequitable policies, practices, and systems that disproportionately harm Native People and People of Color—including those who are LGBTQ+, have disabilities, and/or are multilingual learners—and deprive many students of future opportunities. Trauma-informed prevention strategies should include restorative-based practices.

Investing in Restorative Practices

Restorative practices are based on values that holistically prevent and repair harm, build community and relationships, and result in a positive, supportive school climate. Schools that increased the use of restorative practices saw a decrease in schoolwide misbehavior, substance use, and student mental health challenges as well as improved school climate and student achievement. A key recommendation from the Learning Policy Institute is to invest in ongoing education and support for all educators to develop knowledge of and expand access to restorative practices among all students. 1 Darling-Hammond, S. (2023, May 24). Fostering belonging, transforming schools: The impact of restorative practices. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from Learning Policy Institute: https://learningpolicyinstitute.org/product/impact-restorative-practices-brief .

Engage School Communities in Gun Violence Prevention Efforts

School safety requires all stakeholders—students, families, educators, educators’ unions, mental health professionals, law enforcement professionals, organizations promoting racial and social justice, and community members—to collaborate and work together.

Here are examples of how to engage students and families in gun violence prevention:

Create a safety reporting program. These programs should ensure all students, families, educators, and community members are aware of the reporting system so that they have a trusted avenue to raise concerns when issues of student wellness or safety arise. In a four-year study of the Say Something Anonymous Reporting System (SS-ARS) in a school district in the southeastern United States, more than half of firearm-related tips were deemed “life safety” events, requiring an immediate response from the school team and emergency services. The SS-ARS also identified tips related to interpersonal violence and suicide concerns, which both have implications for firearm violence. Research suggests that adolescent firearm injuries often stem from interpersonal violence, and firearm use significantly escalates the risk for self-inflicted injury and suicide completion. It is imperative that awareness of such reporting systems is amplified to increase use by the community, particularly students; however, it likely requires additional investment in supports and services for adolescents to help mitigate the burden on those who respond to these tips. 22 Thulin, E. J., & et al. (2024). Firearm-Related Tips in a Statewide School Anonymous Reporting System. Pediatrics, 153(2), e2023063861. doi: https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2023-063861 . State initiatives—like Utah’s SafeUT crisis chat and tip line , which is used in almost all K–12 schools and some institutions of higher education in the state, by the Utah National Guard, and with first responders and their families—can also serve this function. 23 SafeUT. (n.d.). Retrieved from SafeUT: https://safeut.org/ . In higher education contexts, there are greater restrictions on how schools can communicate with parents and families than in elementary, middle, and high schools.
Help families start conversations with their school community. When families communicate openly, honestly, and directly with school officials, educators, and administrators, they can help prevent gun violence. Stand with Parkland developed the resource “ 5 Questions Every Family Should Ask as the School Year Begins ” to assist families in ensuring their children’s safety and better understand how prepared a school is to address safety issues. 24 Stand with Parkland. (n.d.). Retrieved from 5 Questions Every Family Should Ask as the School Year Begins: https://standwithparkland.org/5-questions/ .
Use strategies that encourage effective communication on difficult topics. The NEA Health and Safety Program partnered with the Right Question Institute and the Brown School of Public Health to provide a training module to help support families, educators, and students effectively communicate around health and safety issues. The Association also produced a training module— Pathways for Effective School-Family Partnerships: A Strategy for Productive School Health and Safety Dialogue . This training is based on the Right Question Institute’s Question Formulation Technique (QFT), a structured method for generating and improving questions that can be used by individuals or groups.

Promote Secure Storage Practices to Keep School Communities Safe

Evidence strongly suggests that secure firearm storage—storing guns unloaded, locked, and separated from the ammunition—is essential to any effective strategy to keep students, educators, schools, and communities safe. 25 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2023, May 26). Preventable Tragedies: Unintentional Shootings by Children. Retrieved from Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund: https://everytownresearch.org/report/notanaccident/ . One study showed that the majority of children are aware of where their parents store their guns. More than one-third of those children reported handling their parents’ guns, many doing so without the knowledge of their parents. 26 Baxley, F., & Miller, M. (2006). Parental Misperceptions About Children and Firearms. Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, 160(5), 542-547. doi:doi:10.1001/archpedi.160.5.542.

Secure storage not only decreases the likelihood of gun violence on school grounds, but it also reduces firearm suicide rates. A recent study of two decades of suicide prevention laws showed that the rate of gun suicide among young people ages 10 to 24 years old was lower in 2022 than in 1999 in states with the most protective secure gun storage laws, which hold gun owners accountable for failing to store their firearms securely. In states with no secure storage laws or only reckless access storage laws, the gun suicide rate among young people ages 10 to 24 years old increased by 36 percent from 1999 to 2022. 27 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2023-h). Two Decades of Suicide Prevention Laws: Lessons from National Leaders in Gun Safety Policy. Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. Retrieved from https://everytownresearch.org/two-decades-of-suicide-prevention-laws-lessons-from-national-leaders-in-gun-safety-policy/ .

In states where colleges and universities are required to allow firearms on campus, schools should encourage students to securely store their firearms.

The Value of Trauma-Informed Practices

Researchers have defined trauma-informed practices (TIP) as a set of approaches that address the impact of trauma by creating a safe and caring environment. TIP includes restorative practices and a focus on creating a safe school culture, building relationships, and supporting students’ self-efficacy. When effectively implemented, these practices can reduce instances of bullying and aggression, improve achievement, increase self-esteem for students, improve connections between students and educators as well as among students, and strengthen social and emotional skills. By doing so, schools can create school climates where gun violence is less likely. 1 Lodi, E., & et al. (2021, December 23). Use of Restorative Justice and Restorative Practices at School: A Systematic Literature Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(1), 96. doi: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19010096 .

The entire school community must receive training to successfully implement a restorative practices discipline model. Ineffective training and partial implementation can contribute to frustration and skepticism about such initiatives.

NEA’s guidance on trauma-informed practices provides a list of common actions that educators can take to implement across education settings, which include the following:

Support students from the bus stop to the classroom (and beyond!);
Be aware of what may upset a student;
Show compassion, not judgment;
Give students a safe space to share and express their feelings;
Help students develop a growth mindset;
Use restorative practices that minimize punitive discipline outcomes;
Build relationships;
Meet students where they are;
Don’t ignore possible “warning signs”;
Take care of yourself; and
Encourage all educators to be trained on trauma-informed practices.

Educators can encourage a culture of secure gun storage by increasing awareness of secure storage practices . One example of an effective awareness campaign is the Everytown Support Fund’s Be SMART program, which focuses on fostering conversations with other adults about secure gun storage. Although educators may be familiar with the SMART acronym for goal-setting purposes, in this context, the acronym stands for:

S ecure guns in homes and vehicles,
M odel responsible behavior,
A sk about unsecured guns in homes,
R ecognize the role of guns in suicide, and
T ell your peers to be SMART .

The program’s purpose is to facilitate behavior change for adults and help parents and adults prevent child gun deaths and injuries. 28 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2023, May 26). Preventable Tragedies: Unintentional Shootings by Children. Retrieved from Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund: https://everytownresearch.org/report/notanaccident/ .

Schools can partner with Be SMART and pass resolutions requiring that all student households receive Be SMART information, which is already happening in Los Angeles, San Diego, and Denver, among other locations. 29 Sawchuk, S. (2021, December 8). More Schools Are Reminding Parents to Secure Their Guns. Education Week. Retrieved from https://www.edweek.org/leadership/more-schools-are-reminding-parents-to-secure-their-guns/2021/12 . School districts across the country have taken this vital action, impacting more than 10 million students, 30 Everytown for Gun Safety. (2023, August 25). Press Release: As Kids Head Back to School Nationwide, What to Know about Keeping Communities Safe From Gun Violence This Upcoming School Year. Retrieved from Everytown for Gun Safety: https://www.everytown.org/press/as-kids-head-back-to-school-nationwide-what-to-know-about-keeping-communities-safe-from-gun-violence-this-upcoming-school-year/ . and some institutions of higher education have partnered with the program. Be SMART’s Secure Storage Toolkit provides all the information and resources you need to encourage your school to pass a secure storage resolution.

Governors, federal and state departments of health and education, legislatures, nonprofit organizations, and local officials can also work together to develop and fund programs that increase awareness of the need to store firearms securely. 31 For example, see the City Gun Violence Reduction Insight Portal (CityGRIP), available at https://citygrip.org/ .

Increase Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Support

Firearms are the leading cause of death among youth in the United States, and firearm suicides account for more than 4 out of 10 of these deaths. The rate of firearm suicide among young people ages 10 to 24 years old increased by 30 percent from 1999 to 2022. 32 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2023-h). Two Decades of Suicide Prevention Laws: Lessons from National Leaders in Gun Safety Policy. Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. Retrieved from https://everytownresearch.org/two-decades-of-suicide-prevention-laws-lessons-from-national-leaders-in-gun-safety-policy/ Experts are sounding the alarm about young people’s mental health. A recent survey from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that, overall, 42 percent of teens experienced a persistent feeling of sadness or hopelessness, while 57 percent of female and 29 percent of male respondents felt that way. The same survey found that, overall, 22 percent of teens seriously considered attempting suicide, while 30 percent of female respondents and 14 percent of male respondents did. 33 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). p. 63, Youth Risk Behavior Survey: Data Summary and Trends Report, 2011-2021. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/data/yrbs/pdf/YRBS_Data-Summary-Trends_Report2023_508.pdf . For many reasons—including the prevalence of guns in our society—the elevated risk for youth gun suicide crisis continues to rise. Furthermore, a large proportion of perpetrators of mass shootings expressed suicidal intentions, suggesting suicide prevention through crisis intervention could be a meaningful mitigating factor for mass shooting incidents. 34 Violence Prevention Project. (2021, November 17). Suicidality of Perpetrators. Retrieved from Violence Prevention Project; Remnick, D. (2022, May 31). What Makes a Mass Shooter? The New Yorker. Retrieved from https://www.newyorker.com/podcast/politics-and-more/what-makes-a-mass-shooter .

School-employed health professionals, who navigate the education system and the challenges of emotional and social development, serve as a critical resource for students. These professionals may be among the first to know when students are experiencing difficulties or when they are at risk of turning to violence. Unfortunately, the current national shortage of specialized school-based counselors, psychologists, sociologists, and nurses means that meeting the needs of students can be a challenge, and this challenge is often exacerbated in under-resourced communities. NEA determined in the report “ Elevating the Education Professions: Solving Educator Shortages by Making Public Education an Attractive and Competitive Career Path ” that solving educator shortages requires evidence-based, long-term strategies to address both recruitment and retention. The report noted that mental health positions were among the most understaffed in schools. 35 NEA. (2022, 10). Elevating the Education Professions: Solving Educator Shortages by Making Public Education an Attractive and Competitive Career Path. Retrieved 02 23, 2024, from https://www.nea.org/sites/default/files/2022-10/29302-solving-educator-shortage-report-final-oct-11-2022.pdf .

School-based health services, including behavioral health, provide crucial support to students. School-based Medicaid services, for example, play an essential role in the health of children and adolescents, including those related to behavioral health. With more than 41 million kids covered by Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), the school setting offers a unique opportunity to meet children where they are. 36 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2023, May 18). Biden-Harris Administration Takes Action to Help Schools Deliver Critical Health Care Services to Millions of Students. Retrieved February 19, 2024, from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2023/05/18/biden-harris-administration-takes-action-help-schools-deliver-critical-health-care-services-millions-students.html#:~:text=Medicaid%20and%20CHIP%20cover%20more%20than%20half%20of,weekly%20in%20school%20during%20mo . Schools, early childhood settings, and local education agencies help support children and their families, providing children and youth with access to important healthcare services on-site. For information on how to utilize the historic investment into school-based services by the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, see NEA’s Your Guide to the BSCA . NEA’s website also includes guidance on bargaining and advocacy tactics to support educators’ mental health .

School-based health centers (SBHCs) can also help make quality primary care more accessible for children and adolescents. 37 Kjolhede, C., & et al. (2021, October 1). School-Based Health Centers and Pediatric Practice. Pediatrics, 148(4), e2021053758. doi: https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2021-053758 . “School-based health care advances health equity for children and adolescents who experience barriers to accessing care because of systemic inequities, their family income, or where they live,” according to the School-Based Health Alliance. “School-based health centers, the most comprehensive type of school-based health care, do this by providing primary, behavioral, oral, and vision care where youth spend most of their time—at school.” 38 School-Based Health Alliance. (2024). What Is School-Based Health Care? Retrieved from https://www.sbh4all.org/what-we-do/ . These organizations can collaborate with schools to support student well-being by contributing clinical expertise to supplement existing services at the school. 39 National Council for Mental Wellbeing. (2023). Partnering with Schools to Improve Youth Mental Health: A Resource for Community Mental Health and Substance Use Care Organizations. Retrieved from https://sbh4all.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ParterningwithSchoolstoImproveYouthMentalHealth_2023-final.pdf .

The trauma that comes from the threat of gun violence is deeply affecting the mental health and well-being of not only students but also educators. The needs of educators are too often overlooked when resources are being offered in schools to address trauma from gun violence. There must be an increase in support and mental health resources for educators to sustain the workforce as they continue to face the threat of gun violence in schools.

Through NEA Member Benefits, NEA members receive access to the NEA Mental Health Program , powered by AbleTo, which provides 24/7 access to “evidence-backed tools for stress, anxiety, depression, or whatever you’re going through.”

The federal government’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Disaster Distress Helpline offers free, 24/7 crisis counseling for people experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster, including shootings. Dial or text 1-800-985-5990 to connect with counselors in more than 100 languages via third-party interpretation services.

Programs that help educators recognize the warning signs of mental health issues include Emotional CPR and Mental Health First Aid .

Help is also available for individuals who are struggling or in crisis by calling or texting 988 or chatting at 988lifeline.org . State initiatives, like SafeUT described earlier in this section, on anonymous reporting for school safety can also provide mental health support for Pre-K–12 and higher education students.

Integrate Community Violence Intervention Programs Into Schools

Community violence occurring in and around schools significantly affects students and educators. An assessment of the CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey 40 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Youth Risk Behavior Survey: Data Summary and Trends Report, 2011-2021. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/data/yrbs/pdf/YRBS_Data-Summary-Trends_Report2023_508.pdf . showed that witnessing community violence was linked to elevated odds of gun carrying, substance use, and suicide risk among Black, Hispanic, and White students, regardless of gender. 41 Harper, C., & et al. (2023, April 28). Witnessing Community Violence, Gun Carrying, and Associations with Substance Use and Suicide Risk Among High School Students — Youth Risk Behavior Survey, United States, 2021. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) Supplements, 72(1), 22-28. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.su7201a3 .

In neighborhoods that experience community violence, schools can support Community Violence Intervention (CVI) strategies to mitigate its impact on youth. 42 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2024). Community-Led Public Safety Strategies. Retrieved 3 12, 2024, from https://everytownresearch.org/report/community-led-public-safety-strategies/ . Examples of these programs include the following:

Safe passage programs provide safe routes to and from schools to reduce student exposure to gun violence. To achieve this goal, educators, law enforcement groups, and communities collaboratively implement protocols and procedures to ensure student safety. 43 Everytown For Gun Safety Support Fund. (2024, May 24). The Impact of Gun Violence on Children and Teens. Retrieved May 24, 2024, from Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund: https://everytownresearch.org/report/the-impact-of-gun-violence-on-children-and-teens/ . A longitudinal study analyzing data from 2005–2016 found that following the program’s implementation, incidents of crime along these routes dropped an average of 28 percent for simple assault and battery; there was a 32 percent reduction in aggravated assault and battery. Furthermore, overall weekday criminal incidents on school grounds decreased by an average of 39 percent per year where safe passage programs were implemented. 44 Sanfelice, V. (2019, August). Are safe routes effective? Assessing the effects of Chicago’s Safe Passage program on local crimes. Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, 164, 357-373. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0167268119302033?via%3Dihub .
School-based violence prevention programs provide students and educators with information about violence, change how youth think and feel about violence, and enhance interpersonal and emotional skills. Chicago’s Becoming a Man (BAM) program —one example of a school-based violence prevention program—has reduced juvenile justice system readmission by 80 percent. 45 Heller et al., S. B. (2016, August). Thinking, Fast and Slow? Some Field Experiments to Reduce Crime and Dropout in Chicago. Retrieved from National Bureau of Economic Research: https://www.nber.org/papers/w21178 .
Youth engagement and employment programs support students outside of schools. 46 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2023, May 12). Summer Youth Employment Programs for Violence Prevention: A Guide to Implementation and Costing. Retrieved from Everytown for Gun Safety and Support Fund: https://everytownresearch.org/report/summer-youth-employment-programs/ . These programs often center on healing or personal development. For example, The TraRon Center helps youth gun violence survivors in Washington, D.C., heal through after-school art therapy. Programs focusing on youth employment also show success. For example, a researcher found that participation in Boston’s Summer Youth Engagement Program led to a decrease in participants’ violent crime arraignments by 35 percent in the 17 months after program completion. 47 Modestino, A. S. (2019, Summer). How Do Summer Youth Employment Programs Improve Criminal Justice Outcomes, and for Whom? Journal of Policy Analysis and Management, 38(3), 600-628. doi: https://doi.org/10.1002/pam.22138 .
Crime prevention through environmental design involves deliberate efforts to change the built environment of neighborhoods, buildings, and grounds to reduce crime and increase community safety. 48 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2021). Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design. Retrieved from https://everytownsupportfund.org/report/crime-prevention-through-environmental-design/ ; CityGRIP. (n.d.). Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design. Retrieved January 9, 2024, from CityGRIP: Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design. https://citygrip.org/ . Programs encompass a wide variety of approaches and efforts to rehabilitate areas and discourage violence through visible signs that a community is cared for and watched over. Because gun violence is so costly and these simple fixes are not, communities save hundreds of dollars for every dollar that is invested. 49 Branas, Charles C., et al.. (2016, December). Urban Blight Remediation as a Cost-Beneficial Solution to Firearm Violence. American Journal of Public Health, 106(12), 2158-2164. doi: https://doi.org/10.2105/ajph.2016.303434 .

Together, these programs offer services to students going to and from school and students on and off school and building grounds.

Do Not Arm Teachers or Other Educators

Arming teachers and other educators does not make schools safer; to the contrary, it escalates the risk of shootings and introduces new liability risks. 50 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2024-d). Stop Arming Teachers. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund: https://everytownresearch.org/solution/arming-teachers . As noted earlier in this guide, many educators, parents, and school safety experts, including several law enforcement groups, are opposed to arming teachers.

Research strongly indicates that children will access guns when guns are present, including on school grounds. There have been numerous incidents of misplaced guns in schools that were left in bathrooms, 51 Metrick, B. (2016, September 13). Ex-teacher charged for leaving gun in school bathroom, police say. USA Today. Retrieved from https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2016/09/13/ex-teacher-charged-leaving-gun-school-bathroom-police-say/90314614/ in locker rooms, 52 Associated Press. (2018, April 3). No charges after Isabella Co. sheriff accidentally leaves gun at school. Detroit Free Press . Retrieved from https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/2018/04/03/isabella-county-sheriff-gun-school/481486002/ and at sporting events. 53 Laine, C. (2019, January 24). Woman finds gun in bleachers at basketball tournament. WNEM . https://web.archive.org/web/20190710221102/https://www.wnem.com/news/woman-finds-gun-in-bleachers-at-basketball-tournament/article_193ee078-1ff4-11e9-841f-8f08f82a75ca.html .

For more on school resource officers and policing in school, see this guide’s section on school policing. Everytown’s Students Demand Action website includes additional information on strategies to oppose arming teachers .

Advocacy-Based Prevention Strategies

Advocate for measures that limit access to guns.

Gun safety policies save lives. The Everytown Support Fund’s Gun Law Rankings , which compare the gun violence prevention policies of all 50 states, show a strong correlation between a state’s gun laws and its rate of gun deaths. States with strong gun safety regulations, such as the policies outlined below, have lower rates of gun violence. States with weaker gun laws, such as no-permit carry and Shoot First laws (also known as Stand Your Ground laws), have higher rates of gun violence. 54 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2024, January 4). Gun Safety Policies Save Lives. Retrieved from Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund: https://everytownresearch.org/rankings/ . The following gun violence prevention policies save lives and reduce the toll of gun violence on communities:

Requiring background checks on all gun sales

Background checks are proven to reduce gun violence. Twenty-two states and the District of Columbia already require a background check on all handgun sales. 1 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2024, January 4). Which states require background checks and/or permits to purchase handguns? Retrieved January 9, 2024, from Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund: https://everytownresearch.org/rankings/law/background-check-and-or-purchase-permit/ . An Everytown Support Fund investigation showed that as many as 1-in-9 people looking to buy a firearm on this country’s largest online gun marketplace cannot legally purchase firearms—including those under the age of 18. 2 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2021, February 1). Unchecked: An Investigation of the Online Firearm Marketplace. Retrieved from Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund: https://everytownresearch.org/report/unchecked-an-investigation-of-the-online-firearm-marketplace/ . As part of a comprehensive plan to prevent gun violence in education settings, states and the federal government must pass laws that require background checks on all gun sales so that adolescents and people prohibited from possessing firearms cannot easily purchase them from unlicensed sellers.

Enacting Extreme Risk/Red Flag Laws

Prior to the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, on February 14, 2018, nearly 30 people knew about the shooter’s previous violent behavior, and law enforcement groups had been called to incidents involving the shooter on dozens of occasions. 1 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Commission. (2019). p. 264, Initial Report Submitted to the Governor, Speaker of the House of Representatives and Senate President. Retrieved from https://www.fdle.state.fl.us/MSDHS/CommissionReport.pdf . This is just one of many examples where a school shooter displayed warning signs of potential violence. States must enact Extreme Risk laws to create a legal process by which law enforcement, family members, and possibly educators can petition a court to temporarily prevent an individual from accessing firearms when there is evidence that they are at serious risk of harming themselves or others. These Extreme Risk protection orders, sometimes also called red flag orders or gun violence restraining orders, provide a way for concerned bystanders to intervene without a criminal proceeding against a potentially dangerous individual. Extreme Risk protection orders include robust due process protections. The court issues final orders after a hearing.

Enacting Secure Firearm Storage

Studies show that secure firearm storage laws save lives, particularly by preventing unintentional shootings and firearm suicides. For example, one study found that households that locked both firearms and ammunition had a 78 percent lower risk of self-inflicted firearm injuries and an 85 percent lower risk of unintentional firearm injuries among children and teenagers, compared to those households that left firearms and/or ammunition unlocked. 1 Grossman, D., & et al. (2005). Gun Storage Practices and Risk of Youth Suicide and Unintentional Firearm Injuries. JAMA, 293(6), 707-714. doi: https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.293.6.707 . To protect kids in and out of schools, states must enact and enforce secure firearm storage laws. More than half of states and the District of Columbia currently have some form of secure storage law. 2 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2024, January 4). Which states have child-access and/or secure storage laws? Retrieved January 9, 2024, from Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund: https://everytownresearch.org/rankings/law/secure-storage-or-child-access-prevention-required/ . In addition, several cities, including New York City and San Francisco, have passed secure storage laws.

Raising the Age to Purchase Semi-Automatic Firearms

Under federal law, a person must be 21 years old to purchase a handgun from a licensed gun dealer. 1 18 U.S.C.§ 922(b)(1). However, a person only needs to be 18 years old to purchase that same handgun through an unlicensed sale (such as unlicensed sellers offering guns for sale online or at gun shows) or purchase a rifle or shotgun from a licensed dealer. 2 18 U.S.C.§ 922(b)(1); 18 U.S.C. § 922(x)(2). Research shows that 18- to 20-year-olds commit gun homicides at triple the rate of adults 21 and over. 3 Everytown Research analysis using FBI Supplementary Homicide Report (SHR) and U.S. Census American Community Survey data 2016–2020. Despite evidence that most perpetrators of school shootings are school-age and have a connection to the school, many states have failed to step in to close these gaps that easily allow firearm access for 18- to 20-year olds. 4 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2024, January 4). Has the state raised the minimum age for purchasing firearms? Retrieved January 9, 2024, from Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund: https://everytownresearch.org/rankings/law/minimum-age-to-purchase/ ; Only six states and DC require a person to be 21 to possess a handgun: DC, DE (beginning in July 2025), IL, MA, MD, NJ, and NY. Only IL and DC require a person to be 21 to possess a rifle or shotgun, and eight states require a person to be 21 to purchase a rifle or shotgun: CA, CO, DE, DC, FL, HI, IL, VT, and WA. At a minimum, states and the federal government must raise the minimum age to 21 years old to purchase or possess handguns and semi-automatic rifles and shotguns to prevent younger shooters from easily obtaining firearms.

Keeping Guns Off College Campuses

The vast majority of colleges and universities prohibit guns from being carried on campus , either by state law or school policy. Institutions of higher education have unique risk factors, such as high rates of student mental health challenges and increased use of alcohol and drugs, which make the presence of guns potentially deadly. By contrast, some states require colleges and universities to permit guns to be carried on campus under some circumstances. 1 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2024, January 4). Which states don’t force colleges and universities to allow concealed guns on campus? Retrieved from Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund: https://everytownresearch.org/rankings/law/no-guns-mandate-on-college-campuses/ .

Supporting the enactment by federal, state, local, territorial, and tribal governments of statutes, rules, and regulations that would prohibit people other than law enforcement agents from possessing firearms on the property of institutions of higher education, the American Bar Association (ABA) noted evidence suggesting that “permissive concealed gun carrying generally will increase crime and place students at risk.” Despite state laws allowing firearms in institutions of higher education, those institutions may still have independent authority to prohibit guns. 2 American Bar Association. (2023). Report on Resolution 603. Retrieved February 19, 2024, from https://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/directories/policy/midyear-2023/603-midyear-2023.pdf ; The American Bar Association (ABA)—citing recent authority holding that new bans on guns on campus should be permitted—highlighted that “a unanimous Montana Supreme Court ruled that state legislators infringed on authority granted to higher education officials by the state constitution by passing a law that permitted open and concealed firearm carrying on university and college campuses. The court declared that ‘maintaining a safe and secure education environment’ fell within the Board of Regents’ purview (and implicitly, that the Board could determine it was necessary to maintain that environment by prohibiting firearms on campus), and recognized that ‘Montana is not immune from the catastrophic loss that follows the use of firearms on school campuses.’” The ABA also called for “states that do not make it unlawful for any person, other than law enforcement, to possess firearms on property owned, operated, or controlled by any public institute of higher education, authorize such institutions of higher education to restrict or regulate the concealed or open carry of firearms on their campuses.”

Prohibiting Assault Weapons and High-Capacity Magazines

Assault weapons are generally high-powered semi-automatic rifles specifically designed to allow shooters to wound and kill many people quickly. When combined with high-capacity magazines —commonly defined as magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition—a shooter is able to fire more rounds over a short period without pausing to reload. The more rounds a shooter can fire consecutively, the more gunshot wounds they can inflict during an attack. From 2015 to 2022, incidents where individuals used an assault weapon to kill four or more people resulted in 23 times as many people wounded on average compared to those who did not use an assault weapon. 1 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2023, May 24). Assault Weapons and High-Capacity Magazines. Retrieved from Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund: https://everytownresearch.org/report/assault-weapons-and-high-capacity-magazines/ . Numerous mass shooters in schools, including those responsible for two of the deadliest shootings since 2016, have used assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. 2 Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2023, May 24). Assault Weapons and High-Capacity Magazines. Retrieved from Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund: https://everytownresearch.org/report/assault-weapons-and-high-capacity-magazines/ . NEA and Everytown recommend that states prohibit the possession and sale of assault weapons and magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition.

For more on strategies to advocate for measures that limit access to guns, see NEA’s Legislative Program and Everytown’s Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action .

Promote Strong Bargaining Language and Administrative Policies

NEA provides guidance on how to secure language regarding aspects of working conditions surrounding gun violence in administrative policies, employee handbooks, and collective bargaining agreements. This bargaining support includes language on:

Prohibition against arming educators;
Violence/abuse and threats against educators;
Support after an assault;
Broad health and safety provisions for overall safe work environments; and
Joint health and safety committees.

Promoting Strong Union-Backed Language on School Safety

The San Diego Education Association bargained language on school safety plans that ensures the association is involved in the process of keeping schools safe. The language includes “rules and procedures to be followed by site personnel for their protection, including a method of emergency communication and rules and regulations governing the entering and leaving of school sites.” The language requires that school safety plans explicitly address weapons. 1 Board of Education of the San Diego Unified School District and the San Diego Education Association. (2022). Collective Bargaining Agreement between the Board of Education, San Diego Unified School District and the San Diego Education Association. Section 11.6.2. Retrieved from https://www.sandiegounified.org/common/pages/DownloadFileByUrl.aspx?key=mIE9NGWW%2b2qmICXsIXIbpHKGrnZf0UAyqh1mqCx7ErAKKj9%2bqmreFSNN4sI84nlgB%2bjcNeICiXuRO6MqgCQkFbLzvlekl8W3c4Po2uQJ7yfkaO7J2tI3DJsoBK%2bz9sx7dCRo9RB8KOEMuabW%2bND0mptkTnI4CKbKnq5Djz9WLHC3S .

In another example, Racine Educators United (REU), in Wisconsin, has aggressively organized around safety concerns in the district, leading, in part, to the creation of the School Safety Committee, an advisory group including five representatives selected by REU and five chosen by the Racine Unified School District (RUSD). Together, REU and RUSD will select parent, student, and community representatives to serve on the committee. The district superintendent also appoints a building services representative. The committee was a settlement of REU grievances and an REU lawsuit against the district.

According to the agreement between REU and RUSD , the School Safety Committee’s review of district policies and procedures will be informed by trauma-sensitive and restorative justice practices and will cover topics including weapons policies, responding to weapons, and gun violence and active shooter response. 2 Racine Unified School District and Racine Educators United. (2024). Settlement Agreement. Retrieved from https://weac.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/FINAL-CLEAN-Workplace-Safety-Grievances-Settlement-Agreement_.pdf .

Build Strong Partnerships

Addressing gun violence in education settings requires strong, meaningful relationships with partners to deepen association understanding, build relationships, strengthen the processes and policies of Pre-K–12 schools and institutions of higher education, and ensure that approaches developed to keep students, educators, and communities safe are culturally and racially appropriate.

From state to state and within states, potential partners may vary. An important place to start is with other unions representing workers in the Pre-K–12 schools and institutions of higher education where association members work, gun violence-focused organizations, racial and social justice organizations, after-school programs, mental and physical health providers and organizations, associations representing principals or other administrators, and local colleges and universities with programs that identify or address violence in communities or, more specifically, in education settings.

The following list includes several national-level organizations—with links to their websites—that may have state or local counterparts. Identifying local groups working on similar topics may also serve the same purpose.

Click to expand this list of national-level organizations

AAPI Victory Alliance
AASA—The School Superintendents Association
Alliance to Reclaim our Schools
American Academy of Pediatrics
American Psychological Association
American School Counselor Association
Color of Change
Community Justice Action Fund
Hope and Heal Fund
League of United Latin American Citizens
March for Our Lives
National Association of Elementary School Principals
National Association of School Nurses
National Association of School Psychologists
National Association of Secondary School Principals
National Association of Social Workers
National PTA
National School Boards Association
Parents Together
Sandy Hook Promise
The Trevor Project

Engage State Occupational Safety and Health Agencies

State and local associations in any of the 29 states that have created state occupational safety and health agencies can look to the state agency for advocacy and organizing opportunities related to gun violence in Pre-K-12 public schools and public institutions of higher education. 55 The federal government’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) serves to ensure safe and healthy working conditions for the private sector. Federal OSHA does not have jurisdiction over state and local public sector workers. Where established, state agencies are required by federal law to be at least as effective as OSHA in protecting workers and in preventing work-related injuries, illnesses, and deaths.

In states with a safety and health agency covering public employees but without a workplace violence standard, the association or an individual member can file a complaint if workplace conditions are unsafe. Workplace violence standards allow for the association and members to be involved in the development and review of worksite violence plans. The state of New York has established a workplace violence prevention standard applicable to public schools, 56 New York State. (2024). Retrieved from Workplace Violence Prevention Information: https://dol.ny.gov/workplace-safety . and California is developing one.

Promote Professional Development, Capacity-Building, and Staffing

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Education have awarded $1.5 billion in short-term grants for school safety, improved access to mental health services, and support for young people to address trauma and grief from gun violence. The U.S. Department of Justice has awarded an additional $60 million in short-term grants. The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) commits to expanding the pipeline by designating $500 million for training to increase the pool of skilled professionals providing mental health services in schools.

In early 2024, Vice President Harris announced an additional $285 million in funding for schools to hire and train mental health counselors. 57 Psychiatrist.com. (2024, January 15). “Vice President Harris Announces New Funding for Mental Health Professionals in Schools. Psychiatrist.com. Retrieved from https://www.psychiatrist.com/news/vice-president-harris-announces-new-funding-for-mental-health-professionals-in-schools/ . Grants are not meant to be the long-term solution, but they can assist school districts with infrastructure needs and the ability to hire and train counselors, psychologists, social workers, and other mental health professionals. To identify funding opportunities for mental health support in education settings, see NEA’s webpage on school-based mental health services grants . In addition, explore whether state-mandated professional development for educators includes trainings on suicide prevention, trauma-informed crisis intervention, de-escalation techniques, restorative practices, and trauma-informed strategies.

Get Involved in Local Government

Educators play an essential role in the communities in which they work. The experience they’ve gained while working with students gives them a unique perspective when it comes to making public education policy, negotiating collective bargaining agreements, and setting budget priorities for their communities.

Gun Violence Prevention Resources

National education association resources.

National Education Association : The National Education Association is the nation’s largest union, representing more than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, specialized instructional support personnel, school administrators, retired educators, and students preparing to become educators.
NEA Health and Safety Program : NEA School Health and Safety provides information and solutions related to student and educator mental health, violence prevention and response, infection control, and environmental and occupational safety and health, among other topics.
Bargaining and Advocacy Tactics to End Gun Violence : NEA provides advocates in bargaining and non-bargaining statute states with sample language to secure in board policies, employee handbooks, and collective bargaining agreements regarding aspects of working conditions surrounding gun violence.
Gun Violence Prevention Measures Using the Hierarchy of Controls : To help address this worsening public health crisis, employers and educators can implement the hierarchy of controls —a proven approach to minimize or eliminate exposure to workplace hazards—to sensibly prevent gun violence in education contexts.
NEA School Crisis Guide : Produced in 2018, the guide provides detailed content on how to effectively prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from school crises.
Responding to Gun Violence : This portion of the NEA Health and Safety Program website provides content on taking action, helping students cope, resources for school leaders, fostering mental health, and preventing hate and bias, as well as resources for school leaders.
We Can Change This: Educators Take on Gun Violence : Educators across the country are working to end the era of school shootings that has defined students’ lives.
NEA Legislative Program : The National Education Association’s Legislative Program encapsulates NEA’s priorities for advocating in Congress for federal laws that support public K-12 schools and postsecondary institutions, student learning, and educators

Mental Health Supports:

Bargaining and Advocacy Tactics to Support Educators’ Mental Health : This resource compiles strategies to improve mental health support for educators using collective bargaining or advocacy.
The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act : The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act unlocks more than $1 billion additional funding for mental health and other services.
NEA Member Benefits Mental Health Program : Through NEA Member Benefits, in partnership with AbleTo, NEA members receive no-cost access to evidence-backed tools for stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health needs.
School-Based Mental Health Services Grants : NEA provides a summary of federal grant programs that support efforts to increase school-based mental health services and programs.

Safe and Supportive Schools:

Addressing the Epidemic of Trauma in Schools : This report builds a framework to advance trauma awareness and trauma-informed approaches, including some currently being implemented by NEA state affiliates. It includes key recommendations for ways in which NEA may address the trauma crisis through policy, programs, and practices. It also includes a list of selected resources developed or suggested as references by affiliates to address student and educator trauma.
Cultural Competence Training : Through NEA’s Cultural Competence Training Program, NEA members learn how to become culturally competent educators.
How Restorative Practices Work for Students and Educators : This NEA Today article explores what happens in public schools where educators care more about creating a community built upon kindness, not consequences.
How to Be an Advocate for Students Who Are Bullied : These recommendations support educators in helping students who are bullied.
How to Identify Bullying : This article provides tips for addressing bullying.
NEA Micro-Credential Courses on Restorative Practices : Each of the five micro-credentials in this stack can stand alone or be completed sequentially: Exploring Restorative Practices; Building a Positive Classroom Community with Affective Language; Restorative Circles—Building Relationships in the Classroom; Restorative Conferencing; and Implementing Restorative Practices.
NEA Micro-Credential Course on Trauma-Informed Pedagogy : This course addresses child trauma, how trauma affects the brain, trauma-informed pedagogy, leveled intervention strategies, behavioral support plans, replacement behaviors, and teaching students to self-advocate.
Restorative Practices: Fostering Healthy Relationships and Promoting Positive Discipline in Schools—A Guide for Educators : This guide helps educators better understand what restorative practices are and how they can foster safe learning environments through community building and constructive conflict resolution.
Supporting the Advocacy, Communication, and Implementation of Life Skills in Public Schools: A Toolkit : Social-emotional learning (SEL)—also known as positive youth development or life skills—is widely supported by families, students, and educators and provides valuable skills and lessons that contribute to students’ success throughout their lives.
Tools and Tips for Trauma-Informed Practices : Educators in every school community can use these practices to create safe and supportive learning environments for their students.
Trauma-Informed Schools : Supporting students who suffer from childhood trauma requires whole-school involvement and transformation. The NEA and its affiliates are actively engaged in finding ways for schools and educators to address the issue of trauma and its implications for learning, behavior, and school safety.

Community Engagement and Dialogue:

Community Schools : Community schools are public schools that provide services and support that fit each neighborhood’s needs, created and run by the people who know our children best.
Strategies for Effective Health and Safety Dialogue : This NEA training module will help support families, educators, and students effectively communicate around health and safety issues.

Everytown Resources

Everytown for Gun Safety : Everytown for Gun Safety is the largest gun violence prevention organization in America. The organization is a movement of more than 10 million supporters working to end gun violence.
Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund : The Everytown Support Fund is the education, research, and litigation arm of Everytown for Gun Safety. It seeks to improve our understanding of the causes of gun violence and help to reduce it by conducting ground-breaking original research, developing evidence-based policies, communicating this knowledge to the American public, and advancing gun safety and gun violence prevention in communities and the courts.
Be SMART : The Be SMART program focuses on fostering conversations with other adults about secure gun storage. In this context, the acronym stands for S ecure guns in homes and vehicles, M odel responsible behavior, A sk about unsecured guns in homes, R ecognize the role of guns in suicide, and T ell your peers to be SMART. The program’s purpose is to facilitate behavior change for adults and help parents and adults prevent child gun deaths and injuries.
City Dashboard: Gun Homicide : The FBI is the leading source of city gun violence data across the country, covering more than 94 percent of the U.S. population in 2022. Everytown’s City Gun Homicide dashboard allows users to explore gun homicide trends across more than 500 cities with populations of 65,000+ that reported data to the FBI from 2018 to 2022.
CityGRIP—Safe Passage : Safe passage programs provide safe routes to and from schools to reduce student exposure to gun violence. To achieve this goal, educators, law enforcement groups, and communities collaboratively implement protocols and procedures to ensure student safety.
Community-Led Public Safety Strategies : For decades, community-based organizations have successfully reduced violence by implementing alternative public safety measures that are locally driven and informed by data. Often referred to as violence intervention programs, these strategies have expanded greatly over the years and include street outreach, group violence intervention, crime prevention through environmental design, hospital-based violence intervention programs, safe passage programs, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
EveryStat : EveryStat is a one-stop source for gun violence in your state and county, including breakdowns by intent, race and ethnicity, gender, economic cost, and more.
Everytown Gun Law Rankings : Everytown compares gun policy across the country and scores every state on the strength of its gun law and compares it with its rate of gun violence.
Everytown Law Fund : Everytown Law Fund provides support for impact litigation to advance the right of every person to be free from gun violence and to speak, work, learn, pray, assemble, protest, and vote without fear or intimidation.
Everytown Survivor Network : The Everytown Survivor Network is a nationwide community of survivors working together to end gun violence. The network amplifies the power of survivor voices, offers trauma-informed programs, provides information on direct services, and supports survivors in their advocacy.
Extreme Risk/Red Flag Laws : Extreme Risk laws, sometimes referred to as “red flag” laws, allow loved ones or law enforcement to intervene by petitioning a court for an order to temporarily prevent someone in crisis from accessing guns.
Gunfire on School Grounds : The database details the myriad ways in which gun violence manifests in U.S. schools.
Mayors Against Illegal Guns : Mayors Against Illegal Guns is a coalition of mayors fighting to end gun violence by working to fight for gun safety laws and enact gun violence prevention strategies.
Moms Demand Action : Moms Demand Action, a part of Everytown for Gun Safety, is the nation’s largest grassroots volunteer network that is working to end gun violence. The organization campaigns for new and stronger solutions to lax gun laws and loopholes that jeopardize the safety of families, educates policymakers and parents about the importance of secure firearm storage, and works to create a culture of gun safety through partnerships with businesses, community organizations, and influencers. There is a Moms Demand Action chapter in every state and more than 700 local groups throughout the country.
One Thing You Can Do : This database includes information about extreme risk orders by state. An extreme risk order is a way to intervene when there is reason to believe a loved one is at serious risk of harming themselves or others.
Students Demand Action : Students Demand Action is the largest grassroots, youth-led gun violence prevention group in the country, with more than 800 groups and active volunteers in every state and the District of Columbia. The movement, created by and for teens and young adults, aims to channel the energy and passion of high school and college-age students into the fight against gun violence.

Other Resources

Safe and supportive school climates.

Bullying Prevention : From the National Association of School Psychologists, this site provides resources to prevent bullying.
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design : From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) focuses on principles to create safer schools by developing environments that promote positive behavior and reduce opportunities for violence to occur.
Guiding Principles for Creating Safe, Inclusive, Supportive, and Fair School Climates : From the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Planning, Evaluation, and Policy Development, this document recommends evidence-based practices that schools and school districts can take to implement fair student discipline approaches, which keep students safely in learning environments and help to address disproportionality in discipline and exclusion.
National Center on Safe Supportive Learning Environments : From the National Center on Safe and Supportive Schools, this site offers information and technical assistance to states, districts, schools, institutions of higher education, and communities focused on improving school climate and conditions for learning.
The National Technical Assistance Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports : The center provides information, tools, and technical assistance for implementing Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), a tiered framework for supporting students’ behavioral, academic, social, emotional, and mental health. These resources include guides, lesson plans, assessment surveys, and examples of how to integrate trauma-informed practices into PBIS.
Resources for Educators : From Sandy Hook Promise, this site provides resources on multiple topics.
Schoolsafety.gov : This interagency website created by the federal government provides a broad range of information, resources, and guidance to create safe and supportive learning environments for students and educators.

Mental Health Supports

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline : The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.
Emotional CPR : Emotional CPR (eCPR) is an educational program designed to teach people to assist others through an emotional crisis by implementing three simple steps: C = Connecting; P = emPowering; and R = Revitalizing.
Mental Health First Aid : Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based, early intervention course that teaches participants about mental health and substance use challenges.
The Mental Health Technology Transfer Center Network : Funded by SAMHSA, the center develops resources, disseminates information, and provides training and technical assistance to mental health work, including a free online course for educators on mental health literacy .
Project Aware : Through SAMHSA, Project Aware (Advancing Wellness and Resiliency in Education) promotes a sustainable infrastructure for school-based mental health programs and services. AWARE grantees build collaborative partnerships with the state education agency, local education agency, tribal education agency, the state mental health agency, community-based providers of behavioral health care services, school personnel, community organizations, families, and school-age youth.
Screen4Success : Screen4Success is a screening tool to identify areas where someone may benefit from more support on personal health, wellness, and well-being. It also provides local and national resources to help address those concerns. You can use the tool for self-screening, or you can send it to someone you are concerned about. You can also help that person fill out the screener—this provides opportunities for discussion in the moment—or they can complete it on their own if that’s not possible.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline : SAMHSA’s National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (also known as the Treatment Referral Routing Service), or TTY: 1-800-487-4889 is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year information service, available in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. The site also includes additional resources.

Navigate to Other Sections of the Guide

Introduction, part two: gun violence preparation, part three: gun violence response, part four: gun violence recovery.

Everytown Research & Policy is a program of Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund, an independent, non-partisan organization dedicated to understanding and reducing gun violence. Everytown Research & Policy works to do so by conducting methodologically rigorous research, supporting evidence-based policies, and communicating this knowledge to the American public.

In partnership with

The National Education Association (NEA) is more than 3 million people—educators, students, activists, workers, parents, neighbors, and friends—who believe in the opportunity for all students and the power of public education to transform lives and create a more just and inclusive society. NEA has affiliate organizations in every state and more than 14,000 communities across the United States. NEA’s vision for safe, just, and equitable schools consists of thriving spaces that are safe and welcoming for all students; are discriminatory toward none; integrate the social, emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual needs of the whole student; and equitably and fully fund the community school model with wraparound services and resources. The resources in this guide can help make this vision a reality.

Navigating the VOCA Funding Process

Crime victim compensation: financial assistance after a crime.

Did you know?

Every day, more than 120 people in the United States are killed with guns, twice as many are shot and wounded, and countless others are impacted by acts of gun violence.

Everytown Research analysis of CDC, WONDER, Underlying Cause of Death , 2018–2022; Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) nonfatal firearm injury data, 2020; and SurveyUSA Market Research Study #26602 , 2022.

Last updated: 5.7.2024

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Assessment Survey and evaluation of LGBT-Psychology in Nigeria: current state and recommendations

Open access
Published: 02 September 2024

Cite this article

You have full access to this open access article

Abayomi O. Olaseni ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-0209-1407 1 &
Juan A. Nel 2

There is no gainsaying that individuals with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities are faced with serious socio-legal, and medical discrimination following the enactment of anti-homosexuality law in Nigeria. However, not much is known of the effort of an organized body of psychology in the country to ensure adequate knowledge and competence among Nigerian psychologists. This article, therefore, appraises the stance of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) psychology in Nigeria in relation to the cardinal quadrants: Advocacy, Education, Research, and Practice. A multi-method design was adopted to sort for both primary and secondary data. Purposive sampling was adopted to involve 124 practicing psychologists. Findings revealed that the Nigerian psychology curriculum limits its scope to sexual and gender disorders (sexual dysfunction, gender dysphoria, and paraphilic disorders) while missing out on sexual and gender diversity content. Furthermore, the outcome shows that not much is documented on the contribution of the field of psychology to the knowledge of LGBT. Many of the participants had a history (and still) working with LGBT clients and did not have formal LGBT-affirmative training. The study concluded that the integration of LGBT psychology is essential for significant achievement in the space of advocacy, education, research, and professional practices.

Affirmative Competence and Practices of Mental Health Professionals with LGB clients: An Ibero-American Study

Islamophobia and Ethical Challenges for LGBT Mental Healthcare

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning+ (LGBTQ+)

Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.

Introduction

The psychology profession has numerous sub-fields albeit course contents bore into existence to excavate and further deepen the area of concern or interests. One of the most emerging course contents in psychology is the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT Footnote 1 ) psychology. LGBT psychology is a sub-field of psychology developed to research the scientific understanding surrounding the lives and teach a diverse range of psychological and social perspectives of persons with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities (Balsam et al., 2005 ). However, it is important to note that the emergence of LGBT psychology was accompanied by a series of historical global events.

Historically (before the 1950s), sexually and gender diverse (SGD) persons and communities remained targets of hate violence and backlash from privileged heterosexual persons throughout the world; such that victims were regarded as sick and criminals, and not the perpetrators of violence against the SGD populations. Throughout the 50s and 60s, SGD persons and communities continued to be at risk of psychiatric institutionalization, as well as criminal incarceration, and predisposed to other social consequences, such as losing jobs, and child custody, among others (Glassgold et al., 2007 ). Arguably, the breakthrough into the understanding of SGD people and communities started with the submissions of the article titled “The Homosexual in America” by Donald Webster Cory (Pseudo name for Edward Sagarin) in 1951, which paved the way for further scientific research, understanding, and attitudinal change in the United States of America (USA; Sagarin, 1971 ).

Thereafter, research interest began to grow significantly among the populations. In 1956, Evelyn Hooker won a grant from the National Institute of Mental Health to study the psychology of gay men (Hooker, 1956 ). Many scholars across the globe began to expand their niche research interests at that time (Ardila, 2015 ; Hookers, 1956 ). Domination of similar scientifically proven outcomes was reported across different studies, which culminated in the ordination of the first out-gay ministers by the United Church of Christ in 1972; the formation of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) in the same year; explosion of political actions through the establishment of National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, the Human Rights Campaign; and the election of openly gay and lesbian representatives into the political space (De Waal & Manion, 2006 ; Hooker, 1956 ).

History and responses to LGBT psychology differ from country to country, and there is no exception to Nigerian history. However, the historical processes and attitudes toward same-sexuality and gender diversity are almost the same across countries (Ardila, 2015 ). The current study assessed the historical events of the Nigerian LGBT in tandem with the reports from a Western country (i.e., the USA) and an African country (i.e., South Africa). Below is the historical timelines across the three countries.

Historically, 1950s, 1980s, and 2000s were considered the era of a dark age for SGD persons living in the USA, South Africa, and Nigeria, respectively. In this context, a dark age is characterized by the absence of scientific inquiry about the phenomenon of discussion. At that time, the understanding and knowledge about the SGD populations were informed by religion, socio-cultural, and subjective rational thoughts. Historically, in the case of Nigeria, the dark era started when the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act (SSMPA) of 2013 was signed into law in 2014 (Human Rights Watch, 2016; Thoreson & Cook, 2011 ).

The Renaissance period is a period after the Dark Ages, that is characterized by classical sort of knowledge and findings that are scientifically rooted (Copenhaver, 1992 ). The Renaissance period in the USA was contextualized as a post-publication of the finding of Donald Webster (1951) and Evelyn Hooker ( 1956 ). In South Africa, the Renaissance period was ascribed to when the first LGBT + Civil Society Organization (CSO) was established, which involved the initiatives of some pioneering psychologists and volunteers in Cape Town and Johannesburg (De Waal & Manion, 2006 ; Hoad et al., 2005 ; Reddy et al., 2009 ). In Nigeria, several CSOs and Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs) were established to stimulate, educate, and further deepen the rights of the SGD populations in the country. In 2017 for example, a significant increase was reported in heterosexual dispositions toward SGD persons and communities compared to the 2015 survey polls, such that a 07% and 39% opinion increase was reported in the acceptance of SGD communities, and access to basic (healthcare, education, and housing) amenities, respectively (Olamide, 2018 ).

The liberation phase in the USA continued until 1973 when the American Psychiatric Association removed homosexuality as an “illness” classification in its diagnostic manual. Likewise, the American Psychological Association in 1987 published a major revision of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)-III, where the “ego-dystonic homosexuality” classification was removed. Therefore, most organized bodies of the psychology profession have begun to mobilize support, and sensitization (workshops) for the rationale of the removal of diverse sexual orientations as a disorder. Similarly, the South African government in 2016 acknowledged and signed that LGBT + equality rights, which afforded the country global recognition for its progressive constitution that was the first to include non-discrimination based on diverse sexual orientations in the African continent and fifth in the world (Hoad et al., 2005 ; Judge et al., 2008 ; Nel, 2014 ; Republic of South Africa, 1996). Nigeria seems stuck at the renaissance stage, and not much is documented about the efforts of the organized body of psychology, which explains the persistent problems and challenges confronting the SGD persons and communities to date (Human Rights Watch, 2016).

In Nigeria, there is ambivalence in the global position of an organized body of the psychology profession and the sociopolitical stance. Table 1 below shows the summary of the current social and legal context and the roles of organized institutions.

The Nigerian government passed the anti-homosexuality law on January 7, 2014. The same-sex marriage (prohibition) bill signed into law criminalizes any form of civil union between persons of the same sex, punishable under the law (Okuefuna, 2016 ). The law stipulated that persons engaged in same-sex acts in the country are liable for being imprisoned for 14 years. The law also criminalizes any form of support to persons of diverse sexual orientations. The offense is punishable under the law with 10 years of imprisonment. Similarly, an anti-homosexuality law was earlier adopted in 1999 by twelve northern states (Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Niger, Sokoto, Yobe, and Zamfara) of Nigeria under the auspice of the Sharia law. The adoption of the Islamic legal systems by the 12 Northern States is a legacy punishment for offenders of the same sexuality among the Muslims in the region.

However, the position of the organized body of psychology and psychiatry posited that people with diverse sexual orientations do not suffer from mental health problems (depathologization) but are minority groups that require support (APA, 2010 : 2016 ; Hooker, 2006). The position of depathologization was reflected in the universally accepted manuals of practice in psychology and psychiatry professions, that is, the DSM-5, and the International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision (ICD-10).

The anti-homosexuality law and the Sharia law were reported to have culminated in various social problems for people with diverse sexual orientations in the country (Human Rights Watch, 2016; Thoreson & Cook, 2011 ). ). The passage of the anti-homosexuality law was immediately followed by legitimized extortions and extensive media reports of high levels of violence, including mob attacks (Human Rights Watch, 2016; Thoreson & Cook, 2011 ). Sexual assaults have also been reported to be on the increase (Adie, 2019 ; Giwa et al., 2020 ).

No formal information is known about the activities of the organized body of psychology in the increase of awareness and provision of affirmative practices that conform to international standards. However, some NGOs in the country provide medical, psychological, and social services to people with diverse sexual orientations. For instance, Diadem Consults, as an NGO provides HIV and healthcare support to SGD persons. Numerous NGOs, such as the Outright Action International, and The Initiative for Equal Rights provide psychosocial support to SGD persons in Nigeria. The proposed imminent solution to the identified gap is the institutionalization of LGBT psychology.

The field of behavioural sciences (such as psychiatry and psychology) is saddled with the core responsibilities of scientifically determining what is normal and abnormal, what is adaptive and maladaptive in fairness to humanity (Glassgold & Drescher, 2007 ). Non-implementation of LGBT Psychology and affirmative practices for professionals in the academic and practice, respectively, contributes significantly to the pathologization, criminalization, and greater stigma experienced by the SGD communities (Matza et al., 2015 ). Knowledge of LGBT psychology is expected not only to advance human rights and development but also to provide means for ensuring and maintaining the mental health of people with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.

Organized bodies of psychology domiciled in advanced countries have expanded the psychology curriculum that speaks to the reality of complexes in sexuality and gender nonconforming. The understanding and topics around sexualities and gender identities are core to the discipline of psychology, so every psychologist-in-training is saddled with the responsibilities of understanding what sexuality or gender identities are considered adaptive and maladaptive and the psychological rationale of its various classifications. Core to the ethics of the psychology discipline is the well-being of people and groups and the alienation of threats to human well-being (Ardila, 2015 ; Glassgold & Drescher, 2007 ). A large body of research suggests that mental health concerns are common among LGB individuals and often exceed the prevalence rates of the general population (King et al., 2017; World Health Organization [WHO], 2013 ). LGBT + people experience high rates of physical victimization, criminalization, and social exclusion, which appear to contribute to depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation (Horne et al., 2009 ).

The ambivalent concept of ‘depathologization’ of the same sexuality in the most adopted diagnostic manual in the field of psychology (DSM-5; in Nigeria) and ‘criminalization’ of sexual minorities by the Nigerian government created significant gaps in the teaching curriculum and practice of specialists within the field of behavioral sciences (psychiatry, psychology, etc.). Hence, there is a need for an updated training curriculum, and competent professionals to address numerous intrapsychic factors, such as depression, anxiety, internalized homophobia, and social challenges, such as; victimization/bullying/Hate speech, discrimination, sexual assaults and abuse confronting the LGBT + persons and communities (Adie, 2019 ; Giwa et al., 2020 ; Makanjuola et al., 2018 ; Ogunbanjo et al., 2020).

Theoretical framework

This research is informed by the concepts of the Minority Stress Model (MSM: Meyer, 2003 ). The Minority Stress Model is fast becoming one of the most prominent theoretical and explanatory frameworks of SGD persons and communities. The concept of minority stress derives from several psychosocial theoretical directions, resulting in conflicts between minorities and dominant values, and the social environment experienced by members of minority groups (Meyer, 1995 ). The minority stress theory is that the differences between sexually and gender-diverse individuals and communities can be largely explained by stressors caused by hostile, homo-, bi, and transphobic cultures, often leading to lifelong harassment, abuse, discrimination, and harm (Meyer, 2003 ) and may ultimately affect quadrants of LGBT-Psychology (curriculum, research, outreach, & affirmative knowledge).

There is overwhelming evidence of increased mental health concerns among SGD people and communities, yet there are limited competent mental health providers to meet mental health needs (King et al., 2017; Nel & Victor, 2018; WHO, 2013 ). However, despite the passage of the anti-homosexuality law in 2014 putting pressure on the activities of the non-academic actors, some NGOs have documented much progress in terms of sensitization and provision of medical and psychosocial support, while not much is documented about the activities of the academic actors. The major course designated to bridge the gap in developed (and some developing) countries is LGBT psychology, designed to reconcile the gap between fallible social knowledge and scientific findings.

Clarke et al. ( 2010 ) shed more light on the understanding and contents of LGBT psychology for trainees in the field of behavioural science. Clarke et al. ( 2010 ) identified the following outlines [1] understanding the branch of psychology that is affirmative of LGBT people, [2] understanding the challenge of prejudice and discrimination faced by LGBT people, [3] the privilege of heterosexuality in psychology, and in the broader society, [4] LGBT concerns as legitimate contents in psychological research, 5) provision of a range of psychological perspectives on the lives and experiences of LGBT people, sexualities,, and genders. The perspectives of Clarke et al. (2010) account for both the practice and research gaps in LGBT psychology in Nigeria. The field of psychology and psychiatry housed the reserved right of society and science to define what is abnormal and normal with a sense of fairness, both within and outside the profession (Glassgold & Drescher, 2007).

In sum, the need to advance sexuality and gender knowledge motivates the organized body of psychology to respond to the emerging knowledge gap within the academic space, through the development and integration of LGBT psychology into the conventional psychology curriculum.

The current study set to assess and evaluate the current state of LGBT psychology in Nigeria and its implications for recommendations. The following specific objectives were developed based on the quadrants of LGBT psychology, which are to assess the.

‘Curriculum and Education’ quadrant of LGBT psychology.

‘Research’ quadrant of LGBT psychology.

‘Outreach’ quadrant of LGBT psychology.

‘Professional’ quadrant of LGBT psychology.

Research questions

Does the Nigerian undergraduate curriculum entail LGBT-psychology content compared to what is obtained in the United States of America and South Africa?

To what extent do psychology professionals research LGBT-related matters in Nigeria?

How engaged (outreach) is the organized body of psychology in Nigeria to the LGBT communities?

To what extent are the practicing psychologists caring for LGBT + persons or communities in Nigeria exposed to LGBT + affirmative training?

Study area/settings

The study setting is Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country with over 180 million people, and is in the western part of the African continent (Wright & Okolo, 2018). The Nigerian climate, like most other countries in Africa, has a long history of SGD populations (Alimi, 2015). The popular assumption among Nigerians was that the concept of LGBT is a Western imposition on African communities (Alimi, 2015; Mohammed, 2019). Nigeria also has the most diverse cultures in Africa, with more than 250 local languages.

All dominant tribes in Nigeria had and still have their historical cultural understanding of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. For example, ancient Yoruba identified sexual minorities (SM) as ‘adofuro’ (a Yoruban word that means someone who engages in anal sex) and gender diverse (GD) individuals as ‘Lakiriboto’ (absence of binary gender assignment at birth due to ambiguous external genitalia) and/or ‘làgbedemeji’ (a person with a combination of penile and vaginal characteristics) (Alimi, 2015). Similarly, a historical reference to Hausa and/or Fulani of Northern Nigeria revealed that northerners identified SGD persons with the descriptive name Yan Daudu (in the Hausa language, meaning that men are considered ‘wives’ to men). The Yan Dauda communities were typically same-sex attracted by the same sex, who thrived (and still thrive) in northern Nigeria (Alimi, 2015). In 2014, the Nigerian government passed into law an anti-homosexuality law against SM in the country (Omilusi, 2021).

Research design/approach

The research utilized a multi-method approach (positivistic & survey) to sort both primary and secondary data used in the study. To conform to the positivist paradigm and the deductive approach. Survey-based questionnaires are preferred for observing populations and answering quantitative research questions (LaDonna et al., 2018). The approaches permit researchers to explore the public documents of the organized body of psychology (including newsletter), approved training curriculum, publications, and survey subset of the population of interest in the country.

Population and sample

The population of the study survey phase is practicing therapists in Nigeria with experience/history of working with LGBT + persons or communities. The study participants are the one hundred twenty-four participants ( n = 124) practicing therapists who consented to participate in the study. 57.3% ( n = 71) of the study’s participants were female practitioners, while 42.7 ( n = 53) self-identified as male practitioners. The participants’ age ranges between 21 and 66 years (mean = 39.5; SD = 05.03). Regarding participants’ sexual orientation, all the participants (100%) self-identified as heterosexuals.

Research tools

The qualitative phase of the synthesized needed information from the benchmark minimum academic standards (BMAS) for undergraduate psychology programs authored by the National Universities Commission (NUC), a governmental body saddled with the responsibilities of regulating and periodically ensuring that the curriculum of psychology teachings in the country is universal and meets the minimum standard as stipulated in the BMAS document.

The questionnaire booklets were made up of widely used and psychometrically sound instruments for the collection of data in the study. The questionnaire was made up of two sections, Section A-C:

Socio-Demographics section that measured respondents’ data such as specialty, gender identity, age, marital status, highest educational attainment, and length of experience.

Checklist of previous experience with LGBT training. This section explored the categorical checklist for participants to tick as applied. The checklists entail a tick for the absence of formal and informal training, a tick for the history of previous formal training (applicable to foreign-trained therapists), and a tick for the history of informal training experience (i.e. training through webinars, conferences, YouTube, etc.).

Self-Efficacy working with LGBT clients was measured using the Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Affirmative Counselling Self-Efficacy Inventory (LGB-CSI). LGB-CSI is a 32-item scale developed by Dillon and Worthington (2003) to measure participants’ self-efficacy in performing LGBT+-affirmative psychotherapy in Nigeria. The scale has five dimensions, namely advocacy skills, knowledge application, awareness, assessment, and relationship. LGB-CSI scores are obtained by adding all items of the mentioned subscales. LGB-CSI is a six-point Likert scale with good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α > 0.70).

Data collection and procedures

As the study was a mixture of qualitative and quantitative kinds, qualitative content was recovered from the current benchmark for minimum academic standards (B-MAS), public documents of the Nigerian Psychological Associations, and published qualifying articles on some selected database databases (Google Scholar; PudMed & Elsevier) database between January 30, 2015 (period after the enactment of anti-homosexuality law in Nigeria) and April 2023 (deadline for data collection). The selected articles were LGBT-based publications by researchers / co-researchers affiliated with Nigerian institution(s). However, the quantitative data were retrieved through a set of in-print, structured, and validated questionnaires, which enabled an objective assessment of the constructs of interest in the study. Participants who self-identified as psychologists were included and met other inclusion criteria were included in the study. A detailed informed consent form (stating all ethical requirements) was made available to prospective participants who willingly consented and participated in the study. Participants were recruited using a purposive sampling technique because data collection of this nature is cumbersome to retrieve from the specialist due to the existing anti-homosexuality law in Nigeria. The data collection for the study spans from June 08, 2022, to April 25, 2023.

Showing the numbers of LGBT-related Publications for the year 2015–2022 in Nigeria

Showing the number of psychologists with a history working with LGBT clients in Nigeria.

Data analysis

The document analysis method was adopted for the qualitative phase of the study, while a one-way analysis of covariance was used to test the importance of affirmative training of LGBT in self-efficacy for psychotherapy with SGD populations. Quantitative data were analysed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS v.27) and Prism Graph pad (version 16.0).

Results/Outcomes

This section presents the data analyses and results of the study. This section presents the interpretations of the document analyses the four cardinals of LGBT-Psychology and establishes the quantitative findings of the study objectives that established the interplay between the study objectives 1 (curriculum and education) and 4 (professionalism).

Study outcome 1 (curriculum and education)

The finding in study objective 1 that proposed to assess the curriculum and educational quadrant of LGBT psychology in Nigeria was synthesized from the B-MAS for undergraduate psychology programs compared to the psychology curriculum obtained from the United States of America and South Africa as presented in Table 2 .

The results in Table 2 show that related course titles, such as clinical psychology/pathology, contemporary issues in psychology, and psychology of social change, were included in the Nigerian curriculum and training standard as available in South Africa and the USA. However, the Nigerian course contents under clinical psychology/psychopathology cover topics like sexual dysfunction, gender dysphoria, and paraphilic disorder, but the scopes are not expanded and cover topics like sexual and gender diversity and sexual health. Similarly, the course title Contemporary Issues in Psychology does not cover the discussion of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities as a course content just like the curriculum of counterparts within the African continent (e.g. South Africa) and the Western communities (e.g. USA). However, the content of LGBT psychology subsumed under the course title ‘Psychology of social change named social change and identity crises’ was not covered in the Nigerian curriculum despite the inclusion of the psychology of social change in the curriculum.

Furthermore, Table 2 revealed that the Nigerian psychology curriculum does not incorporate LGBT Psychology/Psychology of Sexual and Gender Diversity into the existing training curriculum like what is available in SA and the USA. The LGBT-Psychology/ Psychology of Sexual and Gender Diversity curriculum highlighted the following course contents: [1] historical perspectives of diverse sexual orientations and gender identity [2] LGBT terminology [3] theories of identity development [4] Mental health and well-being of sexual and gender minorities [5] Approaches and ethical approaches to LGBT research [6] Issues that impact LGBTQ + individuals and communities [7] Understanding the role the field of psychology plays in supporting marginalized communities, specifically sexual and gender minorities.

Study outcome 2 (research)

The finding in objective 2 of the study that proposed to assess the research quadrant of LGBT psychology in Nigeria was synthesized from related published articles from 2015 to 2022 in the three main and rated publications (Google Scholar; PudMed & Elsevier) as presented in Fig. 1 .

The descriptive analysis of the synthesized literature as shown in Fig. 1 revealed that the majority (69.2%) of the reviewed articles (e.g. Oginni et al., 2021 ; Mapayi et al., 2016 ; 2022; Sekoni et al., 2022 ; Sekoni et al., 2020 ; Ogunbajo et al., 2021 ; Makanjuola et al., 2018 ; and Oginni et al., 2021 ) were co-published by psychiatrists. The results also revealed that 14.28% of the LGBT-related articles (e.g. Ogunbanjo et al., 2020; Sekoni et al., 2016 ; McKay et al., 2017 ) were co-published by public health specialists, 07.1% of the LGBT-related articles were affiliated with the department of law (e.g. Okuefuna, 2016 ; Arimoro, 2018 ), 03.8% were affiliated with the department of sociology (e.g. Akanle et al., 2019 ), 03.8% of the articles were affiliated with the department of performing theatre (e.g. Okpadah, 2020 ), while none (0%) was affiliated with the department of psychology.

Study outcome 3 (Outreach)

The finding in objective 3 of the study that proposed to assess the outreach quadrant of LGBT psychology in Nigeria was synthesized from previously published flyers/workshops/conferences/outreach/communications issued by the organized body of psychology in Nigeria between 2015 and 2022 as presented in Table 3 .

The results in Table 3 revealed that there was no documented outreach to the LGBT community based on an organized body of psychology in Nigeria. In other words, there was no record of the involvement of the organized body in national discussions, community engagements, or the publication of a position document on LGBT populations. In social media handles, there was no formal LGBT-based broadcast in the newsletters, websites, WhatsApp, and telegram handles of the organized body of psychology. Similarly, there were no LGBT-related topics recorded in the workshop/conference previously organized by the body of psychology between 2015 and 2022.

Study outcome 4 (Professional Practice)

The finding in study objective 4 that proposed to assess the professional practice quadrant of LGBT psychology in Nigeria was synthesized among practicing clinical psychologists caring for LGBT + persons or communities was presented in Figs. 3 and 4 .

Figure 2 revealed that majorityof the participants (81%, n = 101) reported having previously and/or currently provided psychological services to members of the LGBT communities, while the counterpart minority (19%, n = 23) reported no history of working with self-disclosed clients

Figure 3 revealed that majority of the participants (91.9%, n = 114) reported no history of formal and informal LGBT training, while 5.65% ( n = 07) of the participants had informal LGBT + affirmative training, while 2.42% ( n = 03) of practicing psychologists had formal LGBT + affirmative training (during their foreign education pursuit) The findings in Figs. 3 and 4 revealed that most of the practicing psychologists who had (or still) attended to LGBT persons and communities had not informed training tailored toward the populations. The findings informed the need to examine the impact of Quadrant 1 (curriculum and education) on Quadrant 4 (Professional Practice) of LGBT psychology. Table 4 examines the influence of the LGBT training experience on self-efficacy in working with LGBT clients The results in Table 4 showed that the effectiveness of psychologists working with LGBT clients was significantly influenced by the experience of LGBT training (F (03,120) = 52.66; p < 0.01; n p 2 = 0.568). Such that 56.8% (eta value x 100) of the perceived self-efficacy working with LGBT clients was accounted for by previous LGBT training experience. Since the significance was established in the F-value, a post hoc analysis was therefore conducted to determine the magnitude of the F-value (see Fig. 4 )

Showing the distribution of previous training experience on affirmative psychotherapy for the SGD populations

Figure 4 revealed that psychologists with formal LGBT-affirmative training (M = 51.60; SD = 02.67) exhibited greater efficacy working with LGBT clients than counterparts with informal training (M = 38.85; SD = 02.59) and psychologists without formal and informal LGBT-affirmative training (M = 32.25; SD = 01.07). However, there were no significant differences in the efficacy of working with LGBT clients by psychologists without informal/formal training and those with informal pieces of training (MD = 06.60; p > 0.05).

Scheffe post hoc analysis showing the influence of training experience on self-efficacy working with LGBT clients

The study evaluated the stance of LGBT psychology in Nigeria, and the outcome also revealed that the Nigerian curriculum is somewhat sufficient with that of the reference counterpart in the study (i.e. USA and South Africa), following the enrolment of same courses (such as clinical psychology/pathology, contemporary issues in psychology and psychology of social change) in the Nigerian curriculum and training but the scope are limited and do not cover some important contents like sexual and gender diversity, sexual health, and social change and identity crises. Furthermore, the Nigerian psychology curriculum does not incorporate LGBT Psychology/Psychology of Sexual and Gender Diversity into the existing training curriculum as what is available in SA and the USA. The organized bodies of psychology in some developed and developing communities (such as the USA, UK, Philippines, Canada, Australia, South Africa, etc.) identified overwhelming knowledge and scientific findings of contemporary events of sexualities and gender identity and incorporated the identified knowledge gaps into a stand-alone course entitled ‘LGBT Psychology’ to keep psychology students abreast of the specific knowledge needed to understand human sexual and gender behaviours (Ardila, 2015 ; Clarke et al., 2010 ; Moreno et al., 2020 ) For the second objective, the descriptive outcome established that most of the published articles were co-published by psychiatrists, public health specialists, lawyers, sociologists, and academic artists. However, none of the reviewed articles was published by a psychologist. Research outputs played an important role in the scientific understanding of diverse sexuality and gender, co-morbid mental distress, and lived experiences of LGBT persons and communities, rather than the primitive dispositions that are well-rooted in religious ideology, punishable by death (Morgan & Nerison, 1993 ). In other words, superior arguments through scientific discoveries have changed the narrative of the same sexuality over the years, just like mental health illnesses that were at an early stage attributed to spiritual torments (Hooker, 1956 ; Sagarin, 1951). The finding implied that LGBT psychology has no visible place in the research focus of psychologists in Nigeria. This is evidenced in the the study that none of the authors of published articles on LGBT persons and communities self-identified as a psychologist or member of the Department of Psychology at any higher institution in Nigeria. There is a need to discuss LGBT Psychology at conventions or conferences, to incorporate scientific matters about the SGD populations. Meanwhile, the discussion of LGBT matter and scientific findings contributed significantly to the development of LGBT psychology in countries such as the Philippines (Ofreneo, 2013 ) and South Africa (Nel, 2009 ) The third objective revealed that there were no documented LGBT community-based outreach, broadcast, and/or inclusive LGBT-related themes to workshops/conferences organized by the body of psychology, indicating the passive disposition of the psychology body in national discussions, newsletters, community engagements, or issuance of position paper regarding the SGD populations. Behavioural scientists such as psychologists are the core custodians of community well-being and psychology (PsySSA, 2017 ). Outreach is one of the responsibilities of professionals in taking scientific knowledge from the community members for public interest or further enhancing the community’s mental health and well-being (Smith, 1990 ). Psychologists as experts share knowledge to inform policymakers, engage media on issues of human behaviour, and take principle and formal stands on pressing social issues, especially when behavioural expertise is needed to contribute to debate and decision-making (Cohen et al., 2012 ). Outreach can be done through various social media channels (such as Facebook, newsletter, emails, etc.) or formal outreach (involvement in national discussions, academic conferences, community engagements, etc.). In South Africa, psychologists worked closely with CSOs to sensitize the masses and ensure competence in working with SGD populations (De Waal & Manion, 2006 ; Hoad et al., 2005 ; Reddy et al., 2009 ; Van Zyl & Steyn, 2005 ; Victor & Nel, 2017) The outcome of objective 4 showed that most of the participants reported having previously and/or currently rendered psychological services to members of the LGBT communities, while most also reported having no history of formal and informal LGBT training. In other words, most practicing psychologists lack informed training tailored to the needs of SGD populations. Further research revealed that the effectiveness of psychologists working with LGBT clients was significantly influenced by the LGBT training experience.

Recommendations

Based on the outcome of the study and as behavioural scientists and practitioners, the following recommendations were presented The study recommends that the NUC expand some of the existing course content that talks about sexual disorders and gender identities to discuss the overview and scientific reasons why homosexuality was considered a disorder, while people with diverse sexual orientations were considered a marginalized set of people. The introduction of LGBT Psychology will ensure a good understanding of the history of LGBT psychology, affirmative practices, knowledge of past and current attitudes and behaviours towards LGBT people, including common misconceptions, prejudice, and discrimination, research, and ethics working with LGBT and other identified contents are considered very important to fill the knowledge gap identified The organized body of psychology is encouraged to update the psychology curriculum of Nigeria to bridge the training and theoretical gaps of students studying psychology in Nigeria. The curriculum adjustment will guide to exploration of LGBT issues and concerns in different areas of psychology and other content reported in the results section. In this regard, psychologists’ academic outputs are expected to increase in publications, and thus address the need for more inclusive pedagogical and research practices, which will contribute to the challenging heteronormativity as it was experienced in global communities and South Africa (Nduna et al., 2017 ; Nel, 2009 ). For example, the organized body of psychology in South Africa took a leading role in Africa through the early introduction of LGBT psychology and the development of the Psychological Society of South Africa (PsySSA)’s Affirmative Practice Guidelines for Psychology Professionals, sufficiently promoted by the Specialized Division of Sexuality and Gender. The division focus areas are Research, Training, and Development; Education and Training; Experiential workshops; and Advocacy and Expert opinion (Nel, 2014 ) The implication of adjusted teaching, learning, and research into LGBT psychology also have significant and impactful implications in the ethics and practice guidelines for attending to people with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. The American Psychology Association (APA) for the USA and the PsySSA for South Africans developed and published an affirmative guideline that assists practicing psychologists to operate within professional conduct and competencies while handling patients who are members of the LGBT community Researchers or psychologists in practice are encouraged to collaborate with scholars from other countries to recognize the relative, cultural, and national specificities of LGBT lives and, in turn, contribute immensely to the international discussion and approach to LGBT psychology.

Limitations

The researchers evaluated and discussed LGBT Psychology in Nigeria, from the unique field of psychology mainly, other disciplines and scholars from different fields should explore and appraise the disposition and contributions to the LGBT course. The use of in-depth interviews and Focus Group Discussions to engage stakeholders in the organized body of psychology or key players in curriculum development may provide a more in-depth understanding of the factors affecting SGD populations and LGBT psychology in Nigeria and proffer potential solutions.

Conclusions

This article has provided information on the development and assessment of LGBT psychology in Nigeria, and what is available in other countries, specifically the USA and South Africa. The study concluded that the Nigerian course contents are sufficient as much as their counterpart nations (USA & SA), however, lacking some important course content (i.e. social change and identity crises; LGBT-Psychology/ Psychology of Sexual and Gender Diversity. The study further established that no LGBT-related published articles from 2015 to 2022 in Nigeria were credited/affiliated with the Department of Psychology. There was no documented outreach to the minority (LGBT) groups by the organized body of psychology. Lastly, the majority of the practicing psychologists reported having previously and/or currently providing psychological services to members of the LGBT communities, without formal and informal LGBT training. This article proposes specific recommendations to facilitate the emergence of LGBT psychology and to help develop the field in Nigeria, as it has already been established in many developed and developing countries as a formal area of psychological science.

Data availability

The raw data supporting the conclusions of this article will be made available by the authors, without undue reservation.

There is no unanimous use of the LGBT abbreviations, other variations of the acronyms could also be used in the study (e.g. SGD, LGBTQIA + etc.)

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the practicing psychologists/counseling psychologists who volunteered to take partake in this study.

Open access funding provided by University of South Africa. The research was independently funded by the researchers. No funding was obtained from external sources for this research.

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Abayomi O. Olaseni

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AOO conceived the research ideas, organized the research, performed the studies, analyzed the data, and drafted the manuscript. JAN co-conceived the research ideas, provided the overall leadership across every role, and revised the entire manuscript. All authors contributed to writing sections of the manuscript and read and approved the submitted version.

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Correspondence to Abayomi O. Olaseni .

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A complete research proposal was submitted to the chair of the Ethics Review Committee (ERC) and an ethical approval letter (ERC/2022/s7733/0136) was subsequently issued. The study ensures strict compliance with confidentiality, anonymity, voluntariness, informed consent, and other principles. The letter of permission gave researchers access to participants who met the inclusion criteria.

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Olaseni, A.O., Nel, J.A. Assessment Survey and evaluation of LGBT-Psychology in Nigeria: current state and recommendations. Curr Psychol (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-024-06608-y

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