Media Centre for Education Research Australia

The Media Centre for Education Research Australia (MCERA) is an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing education through improving the quality of education research reporting in the media. Established with the purpose of bridging the gap between education researchers and the media, MCERA facilitates the dissemination of accurate, research-based education information to the public, thereby fostering informed understanding and policy-making in education.

Mission and Vision

MCERA’s vision is to enhance education by improving how education research is reported in the media, enabling the public to better comprehend educational matters. The organization serves as a conduit between the media and education researchers, assisting in public understanding of education issues and informing both policy and practice.

By empowering the public with reliable knowledge about education, MCERA aims to contribute to more effective policy decisions, improved communication between students, parents, and educators, and ultimately a brighter future for Australians.

Activities and Services

MCERA actively distributes quality education research to the media, covering a wide range of topics from early childhood education through to higher education and adult learning. The centre supports journalists by helping them find expert education researchers to provide commentary on relevant issues, ensuring that media stories are based on credible and current research.

Organizational Structure

The MCERA Establishment Group was responsible for the initial development of the organisation, including its legal formation, constitution development, and appointment of the Board of Directors. The Board oversees governance and strategic direction.

Patrons provide high-level support, offering expertise from sectors including government, media, business, educational research, and education. MCERA also benefits from an Educational Research Advisory Panel, composed of eminent educational researchers appointed by the Board. This panel supports the organisation by establishing networks of experts who can brief the media on educational topics.

Funding and Support

MCERA operates with the generous support of sponsors and partners. Its sustainability as an independent entity relies on sponsorship, and it also encourages members of affiliated organizations, such as the Australian Association for Research in Education (AARE), to utilize its services to promote their research in the media.

Significance

By improving the quality of education reporting and facilitating access to expert commentary, MCERA plays a critical role in shaping public discourse around education in Australia. It helps ensure that media coverage is more reflective of rigorous research, which in turn supports better educational outcomes and more informed public debate.

Media Centre for Education Research Australia is recognized for its contribution to education by connecting researchers, media professionals, and the public to foster a well-informed Australian community on education issues.

[1] https://www.mcera.org.au [2] https://www.mcera.org.au/about/ [3] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/b5bdff7c-3aaf-e811-a960-000d3ad24282/profile [4] https://www.youtube.com/@MCERA_AUS [5] https://www.aare.edu.au/news/mcera-2/