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Connolly, Pauline

Full time student

Email: mconnolly22@qub.ac.uk

Year of Entry: 2010

Thesis Title: The development and evaluation of a volunteer tutoring programme to improve literacy outcomes in Key Stage One children.

Summary of Research: I am devising and evaluating a volunteer tutoring programme for children in Primary Two. The theoretical framework of this research is based on Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development, where children progress in their learning through the interaction with a more competent adult or peer. The children will be tutored twice a week over a period of 12 weeks. Tutoring will be provided by undergraduate students form Queen's University Belfast. The programme is structured and focuses on developing the children’s ability to decode words.

The research design uses both quantitative and qualitative methods. A Randomised Controlled trial will analyse the benefits of the programme on children's reading development. Qualitative data will also be collected through post intervention interviews with a selection of children, tutors and teachers. Tutors will complete a feedback form at the end of each tutoring session, this will enable me to assess the implementation and  fidelity to the programme. A selection of tutoring sessions will also be observed to further contribute to the process evaluation.

Personal Statement: I am originally from a nursing background and qualified as a registered Sick Children’s Nurse in 1989. After qualifying I worked as a staff nurse in the Theatres and Recovery Ward at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. In 1999 I made the move to education and commenced work as a classroom assistant in a pre-school class. In July 2008 I graduated with a B.A. (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies and in July 2010 I completed a M.A. in Early Childhood Studies, both from Stranmillis University College.

Research Cluster: Pedagogy, Learning and Curriculum

Research Centre: Centre for Effective Education

Supervisors: Prof Paul Connolly, Dr Andy Biggart