The National Institute of Education invites suitable applications for the position of Research Assistant on a 21-month contract at the Centre for Research in Pedagogy and Practice.

Project Title: Enhancing Science Education in Primary Schools through Tinkering: A Constructive Play Approach

Project Introduction:

This research project focuses on integrating tinkering—hands-on, problem-solving activities—into the Primary 4 and 5 science curriculum in Singapore. The main objectives are to enhance student engagement and improve learning outcomes by integrating hands-on, exploratory learning into science education. The project explores how active and experiential learning strategies, such as constructive play (e.g., tinkering), influence students' academic self-efficacy, self-concept, and attitudes towards science learning. It also aims to develop teachers' ability to incorporate tinkering into their classrooms, equipping them with the skills to create an engaging, inquiry-based learning environment. This study seeks to provide valuable insights into how tinkering can enhance both teaching and learning experiences in primary science education.

Requirements:

Essential

A Bachelor’s Degree or above preferably in Learning Sciences, Education, Psychology, Data Science, or a related field; 

• Familiar with the Singapore education system
• Familiar with qualitative and quantitative research methods
• Proficient in using at least one statistical software package (e.g., SPSS) 
• Experience in conducting research in schools
• Experience in coordination and conduct of data collection and organization
• Experience in analysing quantitative and qualitative data
• Possess strong interpersonal communication, writing and language skills 
• Able to work independently with minimal supervision
• Able to work cooperatively in a team environment

Preferred

• Familiar with Primary and Secondary School Science Curriculum
• Teaching experience in schools

Responsibilities:

• Liaise with stakeholders (E.g. participating schools/parents/teachers, external partners and other researchers involved in the project) 
• Planning, preparation, and implementation of data collection 
• Planning and analyses of data
• Synthesising of information from research findings
• Writing of reports, publications and preparation of presentation materials
• Other tasks as assigned by the Principal Investigator / Co-PIs

Application

Applicants (external and internal) will apply via Workday. We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Closing Date

Closing date for advertisements will be set to 14 calendar days from date of posting.

Hiring Institution: NIE