The Social Theory and Education SIG aims to support and develop theoretically informed educational research, to engage with and facilitate new social theory and to explore the relationships between theory-work and research. Social theory here refers to the use of theoretical frameworks to explain and analyse social action, social meanings and large-scale social structures.

The SIG’s overarching aim is as follows.

• To generate new social theory for application across education sectors.

In order to achieve this aim, it has the following objectives.

• To explore how social theory and social theorists enable educational research to be applied across sectors, geographies and temporalities.
• To explore how educational research relates to theoretical concepts, models and frameworks, and the contributions to education of major social theorists.
• To critique hegemonic social theory, and thereby contribute to the struggle with grand challenges.

SIG Convenors are volunteers whose main role is to co-ordinate, oversee and develop the mission and activities of each particular SIG. 

If you would like to be considered, key aspects of the Convenors’ role include:

• Preparing text for a regular (ideally once per term) newsletter to SIG members.
• Hosting at least one annual SIG forum meeting for all members (organised via the BERA office)
• Encouraging submissions of individual papers and symposia for BERA conference.
• Reviewing abstracts or acting as a third reviewer.
• Grouping together abstracts for the conference.
• Succession planning.
• SIG events
• SIG Forum Meetings
• BERA Conference
• Social media

If multiple expressions of interest are received an election may be run.

By agreeing to assume a position of SIG convenor, individuals are committing to fulfilling the responsibilities and obligations that go with that role. SIG Convenors are expected to exercise their own judgment to meet the requirements listed in BERA guidance and to seek further advice from the BERA Office if in any doubt on any of these matters. If any procedures are not followed then BERA reserves the right to take whatever action may be necessary to protect BERA’s legal, financial and reputational position.

This role is intended to serve a 3 year term, finishing 30 September 2027

The deadline to apply is Monday 15th April 2024

As part of our wider commitment to greater equality and diversity at all levels of the organisation, we continue to seek increased representation from members with a Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) background. In acknowledging the structural inequalities and unjust power imbalances that affect our members, we wish to be proactive in addressing this within our own structures.