A global systematic map of Pedagogic Action Research in higher education and future research agenda

Arnold, L., Papadas, D. and Huang, I.Y. (2026) A global systematic map of Pedagogic Action Research in higher education and future research agenda. Educational Action Research. pp. 1-26. ISSN 0965-0792

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Abstract

Pedagogic Action Research (PedAR) is an established approach to enhance teaching and learning in higher education; the global landscape of PedAR along with its methodological features, and areas of focus are poorly understood. To address this gap, this study systematically maps 1,374 peer-reviewed PedAR publications from 1989 to 2023 captured through a multi-database search and a rigorous screening process, with the aim of identifying when, where, and in what ways PedAR has been undertaken. The findings reveal a geographical concentration in the UK, USA, Australia, and South Africa, with limited cross-national collaboration and underrepresentation in some regions. Thematically, teaching and learning approaches dominate PedAR, followed by skills, and technology. Methodologically, PedAR is varied, often using mixed or multiple methods, with surveys, interviews, and appreciative inquiry also being popular. However, many studies provided no clear method in their abstracts or keywords. PedAR is most often applied in business, health, and education, suggesting discipline tradition may be a factor in uptake. Because our coding relied solely on abstracts, some nuance is inevitably lost but, the map shows that about 90% of authors publish only once, suggesting that PedAR may be more practiced than published and sets a future research agenda. We propose future priorities should include: unpacking the national and institutional factors shaping PedAR adoption; undertaking comparative country studies; assessing PedAR’s long-term impact on teaching practice and practitioners’ research identity. Addressing these questions will help move PedAR from the periphery towards a more connected and influential position in higher education scholarship.

Item Type:	Article
Keywords:	Pedagogic action research, global review, teaching and learning approaches
Divisions:	Departments > Harper Adams Business School
Depositing User:	Mrs Susan Howe
Date Deposited:	09 Jun 2026 12:26
Last Modified:	09 Jun 2026 12:26
URI:	https://hau.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/18384

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