Public Engagement as Praxis: Building Relationships for Research Impact

This blog post authored by Scott Keir captures key insights from a masterclass delivered by Professor Louise Archer as part of the IOE Public Engagement Masterclass Series. Drawing on Prof Archer’s extensive experience of participatory research on education, inequality and social justice, this piece explores public engagement as a relational, iterative process embedded within research practice. It outlines practical approaches to engagement, from early relationship-building to co-production, and highlights the importance of flexibility, resourcing and collaboration in generating meaningful impact on policy and practice. The blog serves as a practical resource for researchers seeking to integrate public engagement thoughtfully and effectively into their work.