Research Bulletin, Vol. 1, No. 2, 1996 - Dr. Stirling McDowell ...

Applying for a McDowell Foundation Research GrantThe McDowell Foundation has an independent Project Review Committee, composed ofa majority of teachers, which screens, selects and evaluates research projects. It is thecommittee that decides which proposed projects will be approved each year, within thebudgets, terms, policies and guidelines provided by the Board of Directors.In order to be considered for funding, proposed research must:• contribute to knowledge about teaching and learning;• focus on teaching and learning in the context of K-12 education;• consider the dissemination and application of the research among teachers inSaskatchewan and elsewhere;• meet the Foundation’s ethical guidelines for research;• meet accepted academic standards for research; and• respect the rights of all individuals and groups regardless of race, gender, language, religion,ethnic background, socio-economic status, and physical or mental ability.In addition, preference will be given to research projects that can be seen to do any of thefollowing:• provide direct benefit to teachers in Saskatchewan and elsewhere;• affect positive change in teaching and learning;• involve teachers in a way that extends their ability and motivation as researchers;• encourage individuals and organizations to reflect on and identify important issuesrelated to teaching and learning that require study and discussion;• address teaching and learning issues of wide scope and significance;• create opportunities for dialogue about teaching and learning;• involve experimentation with innovative ideas and methodologies for teaching andlearning; and/or• utilize innovative research methods and approaches.More specific information regarding project selection may be found in the awards guideand form for applying for a research grant, which are available upon request from theFoundation’s Research Coordinator (contact information may be found on the backcover).The next call for research proposals will be issued on January 1, 1997. The deadline forapplications is March 31, 1997, with the Project Review Committee authorized to awardup to $50,000 in research grants in 1997-98.Teachers are encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to researchers who are alsoclassroom teachers. Experience is not required. The Foundation will endeavour to supplyresearchers with advice and assistance where needed.36Learning from Practice