Tassie Researchers is a child-led method in which university researchers facilitate groups of children to ask statistical questions about things that concern them, design surveys, collect and analyse data, and share findings. The method has also been used to facilitate children in evaluating an education program ("Kids to Farms"), and to explore adult-initiated concepts such as "self-concept as a learner".
https://www.utas.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/1704446/Final-report-Kids-to-Farms-Tassie-Researchers.pdf
This longitudinal study uses child-friendly surveys and data linkage to track engagement with extra-curricular activities and outcomes such as academic attainment; attendance at school; self-concept as a learner; and school engagement. The qualitative arm engages with children, parents, school staff and Learning Destination staff to examine experiences and perceptions of learning in- and outside of school. Children's views are gathered through Child-Centred Workshops and disseminated in poster format.
https://www.utas.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0014/1700402/26-Chapter-26-Ooi-and-Shelley.pdf
https://www.utas.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/1704464/Childrens_University_Poster-Childrens-Feedback.pdf
This project expanded upon a successful pilot of Children’s University Tasmania at East Devonport Primary School, which commenced in 2016.
https://doi.org/10.1163/9789004417311_011
The project engaged with specialist arts educators at the art gallery and museum sites of the QVMAG with the aim of developing a set of practices that could guide engagement with people, particularly children and families from communities characterised by social disadvantage, in cultural organisations such as a museum. Melody West and Becky Shelley collaborated with a school community, the artists and staff from the QVMAG and the Tin Sheds Studios on a pilot engaging with about 20 children in which the children were empowered as researchers and art-makers. The project included professional learning components within the school and encouraged critical thinking and creating safe spaces to develop a stronger sense of identity and belonging – as learners, collaborators, and as civic participants.
The goal of Children’s University is to raise the educational attainment and aspirations of children, particularly those living in low socio-economic areas. This project supported that aim and sought lessons from Children’s University Asia-Malaysia using an “extreme-comparative” approach. It was the first inter-country analysis of the Children’s University.
https://www.utas.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/1700393/Dare-to-Dream-Report-31-May-2018.pdf