Rethinking Children and Research: Attitudes in Contemporary Society

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Rethinking Children and Research considers the way people approach research into childhood and children's lives and examines the debates concerning the forms and goals of such research.

Theoretical and practice-based perspectives are discussed in the context of recent key developments in research theory and philosophy of children. Mary Kellett promotes the idea that researchers should listen to the voices and perspectives of children as experts on their own lives, and offers insights and guidance on approaches to research design, implementation and presentation.

Recent debates and developments are considered, including ethics, approaching research with children from a child-rights framework, and rethinking the power dynamic within research relationships with children.

Rethinking Children and Research is essential for studying childhood and undergraduate or postgraduate level, and will be of interest to all involved with research into childhood and children's lives in the areas of education, health and social services.

Reviews

This book is a valuable and timely contribution to the literature on research with children. Mary Kellett has been in the forefront of the movement to advance children and young people's active participation in social research. Her book is theoretically grounded, very accessible and rich in practical examples. I cannot think of a better introduction to the subject.' Nigel Thomas, Professor of Children and Youth Studies, University of Central Lancashire, UK
'A well-researched and comprehensive overview of key issues to be considered in any research that claims to be about children, on children, for children, with children and, particularly, by children. The author has skilfully analysed key theoretical developments and debates whilst addressing important methodological and pragmatic issues that lie at the heart of respectful and ethical research involving children ... A "must read" for those looking to improve or renew their understandings and be expertly guided in their research practice.' Anne Graham, Professor of Childhood Studies and Director of the Centre for Children & Young People, Southern Cross University, Australia
Through the use of informed analysis and though-provoking case studies and examples, Kellett provides a highly readable overview of children and research that will be a valuable read to researchers who work with children.' Spryros Spyrou, Associate Professor of Social Science, European University, Cyprus
'Ideal for those studying childhood at undergraduate or graduate level...[the book] analyses key theoretical developments and debates while addressing important methodological and pragmatic issues that lie at the centre of respectful and ethical research involving children... Recommended reading.' Early Years Educator
Reviewed in Children and Young People Now August a powerful reappraisal of how research can best serve present and future generations'
This book is lucid and concise and sprinkled with an array of stimulating case studies, interviews and reflections. It is an insightful read for those interested in research on children, about children, with children and, crucially, by children. -- Laura Bainbridge, senior research executive, QA Research
Reviewed in Nursery World October (UK)

Author Bio

MARY KELLETTis Professor of Childhood and Youth and Founding Director of the Children's Research Centre at the Open University, UK. Phil Jones is Professor of Children's Rights and Wellbeing at the IOE, UCL's Faculty of Education and Society, University College London, UK. He has published a number of books and articles including Exploring Education and Childhood: From Current Certainties to New Visions (with Wyse, Davis and Rogers 2015) and Rethinking Childhood (2009). He has conducted research funded by the Childrens Commissioner for England and by the LankellyChase Foundation.