Supporting Scholarship and Original Research

As a learned society of scholars, UKAT recognises that there is growing call for evidence of the impact of tutoring/academic advising in the UK Higher Education sector, but a lack of a research base to provide the evidence of that impact. UKAT's mission is to promote, support and disseminate peer-reviewed academic research in the field of personal tutoring and academic advising. In particular, UKAT is keen to promote research which has outcomes that transfer into and improve the everyday practice of personal tutors and academic advisors, thus enhancing student success.

There is a substantial gap in the literature on tutoring and advising across the UK sector and this must be addressed if we are to acknowledge the ongoing importance of tutoring to teaching, learning and student-centred pedagogies. We are particularly keen to promote research with outcomes that transfer into and improve the everyday practice of personal tutors and academic advisors.

What do we do?

UKAT's scholarship and research mission is overseen by the UKAT Research Committee. We are able to offer advice and guidance to support members in setting up and conducting research. We currently offer several resources to support those interested in research.

• Dissemination of original research through regular guest-edited special editions of peer-reviewed academic journals. Recent work includes special editions of Frontiers in Education and the NACADA Review journal.
• Monthly research webinars connecting scholars to current research studies in the field
• Early Career Researchers network to connect and provide mentoring to those just starting their research journey in this field, including guidance on topics for study, research methodologies and publication advice
• Extensive bibliography of peer-reviewed research in personal tutoring and academic advising
• Original research studies led by UKAT leaders and members. Recent studies include Skills and Competencies for Effective Academic Advising and Personal Tutoring, Professional Standards and Recognition for UK Personal Tutoring and Advising, Perceptions and principles of personal tutoring, Comparing Personal Tutoring in the UK and Academic Advising in the US, 
• External review of funded grant applications to external bodies
• Research-focused sessions at our Annual Conference
• Regular writing retreats  

How can I get involved?

Whether you would like to engage with the emerging scholarship of advising and tutoring, explore the evidence-base and existing literature on advising and tutoring or have a research idea that you would like to discuss, we are on hand to provide advice, guidance and support. Please contact us for more information.