Education Horizon research grants now available

Applications are now open for education and training research funding through the Queensland Government’s $1 million Education Horizon grant scheme.

Education Minister Kate Jones and Training and Skills Minister Yvette D’Ath said grants of up to $100,000 were available for research work that promotes excellence in education and training.

“We want a world-class education and training system in Queensland, where policy-making is underpinned by relevant and up-to-date research,” Ms Jones said.

“Our Education Horizon scheme is the only education and training funding program of its kind in the country.”

“We’re looking for researchers who can deliver effective, evidence-based programs and services in early childhood education and care, school education and vocational education and training.

“We also want to direct funding to research that will result in positive change in classrooms and learning institutions throughout the state.”

Ms Jones said the inaugural grants round in 2016 attracted 98 submissions.

“Grants of between $17,000 and $100,000 were awarded to 17 research projects covering a range of topics,” she said.

“For example, a Central Queensland University project focusses on engaging girls in their first year of secondary schooling through activities designed to initiate a deeper interest in STEM-related learning pathways.

“Also, a Queensland University of Technology project is examining the widening achievement gaps associated with socio-demographic characteristics and which factors contribute to better than expected outcomes for vulnerable students.”

Training Minister Yvette D’Ath said another project was examining how a virtual campus could be used to enhance the learning experience of TAFE students in rural and regional areas and assist them to complete their studies.

“In 2017, funding is available for research projects undertaken in a single year in four categories,” Ms D’Ath said.

“The categories are early childhood education and care; school education; vocational education and training; and cross-portfolio for projects that span research categories.

“A fifth ‘open’ category provides funding of up to $100,000 per year for up to two years to previous Education Horizon grant recipients to expand, scale-up or translate their research.

“Applications under this category will need to demonstrate strong outcomes and collaboration with the Department of Education and Training on previous research.

“We’re looking forward to another strong response from prospective researchers this year.”

Successful applications will be announced before the end of the financial year. Closing date for submissions is 5pm (AEST) Tuesday 18 April 2017.

For further information visit http://education.qld.gov.au/corporate/research/education-horizon.html

Media contact: 3237 1000