Professor Emma Smith

To cite this reference: Smith, E. (2011) Using numeric secondary data in education research, British Educational Research Association online resource. Available online at: [INSERT WEB PAGE ADDRESS HERE] Last accessed [insert date here].

This resource provides a brief introduction to using numeric secondary data in educational research. Secondary data analysis is a relatively under-used technique in the field of education yet the potential for its use, among novice researchers in particular, is huge. From the academic attainment of everyone in school in England to young people’s views on friendship and social networks, there are not many aspects of the educational and social world that aren’t covered by some type of secondary data. Indeed, it is very likely that whatever your research topic, the answers to at least some of your research questions can be found by analysing secondary data.