It can sometimes be difficult to find informed comment backed by clearly cited research which sets out the data behind the big news stories. So I was pleased to find the website of The Conversation, a not for profit organisation which launched in Australia in March 2011 and in the UK in May 2013.
The Conversation website states that they provide “an independent source of news and views, sourced from the academic and research community and delivered direct to the public”. Readers can feel confident to trust the authors because only those with proven expertise in the area they write about are allowed to publish on the site. Also, any funding or conflicts of interest must be disclosed by the authors.
The topics covered are wide ranging and provide sources of information and comment which support The Conversation’s aim “to allow for better understanding of current affairs and complex issues. And hopefully allow for a better quality of public discourse and conversations”.
Recently I have read a number of articles on the site, relating to developing Early Years policies, for example the extension of the delivery of free childcare and the importance of involving parents in the 2 year old offer. Each of the articles, by different authors, have been written in an accessible style and given links to further information and statistics.
I will be regularly accessing the site to keep up to date by accessing the links to research papers and to enjoy the exploring the range of views on offer.
I urge you to do the same.