Research Interest Groups

What is a SARAECE RIG?

A Research Interest Group (RIG) is a community within SARAECE where members collaborate around a clearly defined theme in ECE. RIGs bring together researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and students who share a common interest and who wish to deepen knowledge, strengthen practice, and build networks in that area.

Themes may be curriculum or method focused (for example, mathematics, play, assessment, multilingual education) or may respond to broader issues such as child participation and voice in decision-making, inclusion and equity, leadership development, early career support, outdoor learning, and the impact of poverty and inequality on young children’s education.

Aims of SARAECE RIGs

Generate critical reflection and dialogue on a particular theme or issue in ECE,
Encourage cross-context and, where possible, cross-national perspectives,
Support innovative, reflexive, and collaborative research on current ECE questions, and
Strengthen links between research, policy, and practice in the early childhood sector.

How do RIGs work?

Each RIG is a network of members from different institutions, disciplines, and contexts who collaborate around a shared theme. Activities may include:

Ongoing dialogue and knowledge sharing (online or in person)
Collaborative research projects or development initiatives
Joint conference presentations, symposia, or panel discussions
Co-authored publications, position papers, or practice guidelines
Mentoring and peer support for members working in a similar area

RIGs usually meet during SARAECE events and may also organise additional meetings or online sessions during the year.

How does SARAECE support RIGs?

SARAECE supports RIGs by:

Providing a platform for networking through its website, mailing lists, and social media,
Allocating time and space for RIG meetings and self-organised symposia at SARAECE conferences and events,
Profiling RIG activities and outputs in SARAECE communications,
Encouraging RIGs to contribute to publications, special issues, and other scholarly or practice-oriented outputs linked to the association.

How do I start a SARAECE RIG?

Members who wish to initiate a RIG are encouraged to:

Connect with other colleagues who share the same interest
Agree on a clear, focused theme that aligns with SARAECE’s mission and has potential for collaborative work
Identify at least two convenors who are willing to lead and coordinate the RIG
Submit a brief proposal to the SARAECE Executive Committee outlining the theme, rationale, proposed activities, and convenors

Once approved, the RIG will be listed on the SARAECE website and may begin its activities.

Membership and conditions of operation

RIG convenors must be current SARAECE members
RIG members are expected to be or become SARAECE members if they wish to participate on an ongoing basis
RIG meetings held at SARAECE conferences are open to any registered delegate who wishes to attend; delegates who decide to join the RIG formally should then become members of SARAECE
RIGs are expected to operate in line with SARAECE’s constitution, values, and ethical guidelines, and to contribute to the broader work of the association rather than functioning as separate or competing structures.

Responsibilities and recognition of RIG convenors

RIG convenors are responsible for:

Coordinating communication and activities within the RIG
Ensuring that the RIG’s work remains aligned with SARAECE’s mission and ethical standards
Submitting a short written report on RIG activities to the SARAECE Executive Committee at least once a year
Providing updated information for the SARAECE website and other communication channels

In recognition of their leadership and service, RIG convenors may be invited to contribute to SARAECE strategic initiatives, programme planning, or publications related to their theme. Their roles will be acknowledged in SARAECE reports and communications.