Bridging Scholarship and Practice in Higher Education

Sam Illingworth is a Professor of Creative Pedagogies at Edinburgh Napier University, United Kingdom. His work explores how poetry, games, and GenAI can foster belonging and inclusivity in higher education.

• 1. Introduction 2. Integrating Research into Teaching 3. Identifying Research Topics 4. Research Design 5. Ethical Considerations 6. Conducting Research 7. Disseminating Research 8. Conclusions

“A much-needed practical guide to navigating the relationship between teaching and research, underpinned by rigorous engagement with literature, analysis, and reflection. A must for every academic who takes their teaching seriously.”Professor Nic Whitton, Northumbria University, UK."Bridging Scholarship and Practice in Higher Education provides a practical guide for educators to make a tangible impact on both their students and the wider academic community. Theoretically informed, accessible and practical, this book enables readers to embark on their own research within their teaching practice, disseminate their findings and evaluate their impact. A must-read for anyone committed to advancing educational impact and integrating research into the heart of teaching."Professor Mark S. Reed, Centre Director at Scotland's Rural College and author of The Research Impact Handbook.“This book is full of thoughtful and practical suggestions for integrating research and teaching in higher education. It will be an invaluable guide for those looking to research their own teaching.”Professor Paul Ashwin, Lancaster University, UK.“Illingworth has added meaningfully to the body of literature on scholarship and practice, precisely by helping us to see the bridge more clearly, inviting us to seek company along the way. Always instructive and coherent, the book’s greatest strength lies in its unwaveringly supportive tone – an encouraging companion for all academics and learning developers navigating the evolving landscape of SoTL.”Reviewed in the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education."Overall, the book’s strengths include its structured accessibility, theoretical grounding and practical applicability, making it especially valuable for early-career academics, doctoral students and educators pursuing Postgraduate Certificates in Academic Practice/Learning and Teaching in HE. It also offers insights for more experienced academics exploring new ways to connect research and teaching or to enhance dissemination. As a lecturer in Applied Linguistics and TESOL, this is the resource I wish I had access to when I started designing new modules...the book has also prompted me to reflect on ongoing collaborations with colleagues, and I anticipate revisiting it regularly to develop new ideas for research that actively engages students. Our thanks go to Sam for sharing his inspiring experience with us."Mattia Zingaretti, York St John University, UK.Reviewed in the Educational Review. Visit here to read the full review: https://doi.org/10.1080/00131911.2025.2539620Bridging Scholarship and Practice in Higher Education is a foundational resource for advancing SoTL. The book’s structured approach, practical insights, and engagement with key scholarly debates equip educators with the tools to integrate research into their teaching.Professor Earle Abrahamson, University of Hertfordshire, UK.Reviewed in Teaching & Learning Inquiry. Visit here to read the full review: https://doi.org/10.20343/teachlearninqu.13.52