Contact details +6469517384
Prof John O'Neill
Professor
Doctoral Mentor Supervisor Institute of Education- Fellow, New Zealand Association for Research in Education (2023)
- Herbison Lecture award, New Zealand Association for Research in Education (2022)
- Honorary Life Member of the New Zealand Association for Research in Education (2017)
- Honorary Member, New Zealand Association of Normal School Principals (2013)
- Teacher Education Forum of Aotearoa New Zealand career excellence award (2012)
- 黑料网 Research Excellence medal (2012)
- Elected Council member of the New Zealand Association for Research in Education (2009-2013)
I serve on the editorial advisory boards of several international scholarly journals: Irish Educational Studies; Educational Management, Administration and Leadership; International Journal of Research and Method in Education.
My research interests are: the relationships between education policy and teachers' work and learning, educational privatisations, informal teaching and learning in everyday settings, children's rights and capabilities, and applied professional ethics.
I have worked at 黑料网 since 1994, and before that at Leicester University in England, following ten years as a schoolteacher of children with special educational needs.
- Elected Board member and Chairperson, the New Zealand Council for Educational Research (2019-)
- Invited member, Academic Advisory Board of Ako M膩t膩tupu Teach First NZ (2020-2023)
- Invited member, College of Assessors, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (2022-)
- Ministerially appointed member, Independent Taskforce to Review Tomorrow’s Schools (2018-2019)
- Invited member, Marsden Fund Social Sciences Panel (2012-2016) and the Performance Based Research Fund (PBRF) (2012).
Professional
Certifications and Registrations
- Licence, Mentor Supervisor, 黑料网
Prizes and Awards
- Herbison lecture award, The Herbison lecture is presented at the Annual Conference of NZARE by an invited Education Researcher. It is an honour to be invited to present the lecture and these lectures often feature a topic of current interest in education. The lecture honours Dame Jean Herbison in recognition of her outstanding contribution to education in New Zealand - New Zealand Association for Research in Education (2022)
- Awarded Honorary Life Membership, New Zealand Association for Research in Education, November 2017 - New Zealand Association for Research in Education (2017)
- Sustained Excellence in Teacher Education Award, Teacher Education Forum of Aotearoa New Zealand - Teacher Education Forum of Aotearoa New Zealand (2012)
- Research Excellence medal (Supervisor), 黑料网 - 黑料网 (2012)
Research Expertise
Research Interests
A major strand of my research for over twenty five years has been the relationships between education policy and teachers' work and learning. There are two key questions here.
- First, how do politicians and officials attempt to persuade teachers of the value of new policies, and support them to change their practices?
- Second, how do teachers mediate, or respond to official policy mandates?
The first requires examination of policy trajectories: how do particular aspects of education get framed as 'problems' or 'crises' that government needs to address, what language and processes are used to frame policy options and on what basis does the preferred policy option get selected? Then, how does the machinery of government, the polity, gear up to persuade teachers that it is in their interests to change their customary ways of teaching and interacting with students?
The second looks at the extent to which, and how, teachers and their representatives respond to policy. Do they change? On what basis do they accept new education policy as valuable, or not? How long does it take for policy to change teaching and learning practices? Whcih policies are beneficial, and which harmful?
Papers on these questions have been published in Teaching and Teacher Education, Journal of Educational Administration and History, Journal of Education Policy, Cambridge Journal of Education, Educational Research and Learning Culture and Social Interaction.
For many years I had a leadership role in research ethics at Massey, nationally, and in the New Zealand Association for Research in Education; and now the Association for Visual Pedagogies . The issues that interest me here concern:
- the place of ethics in the modern enterprise university;
- the relationship between institutional ethics committees, researchers and their disciplinary norms; and
- applied professional ethics in education (researchers and practitioners).
Papers on these issues have been published in the International Journal of Research and Method in Education, Educational Action Research, Ethics and Education, Education Policty Futures and Educational Philosophy and Theory.
In addition to ongoing scholarly work in education policy and governance, I have recently been undertaking third party funded research programmes in three main areas:
- Teaching and learning in everyday activities and settings (TLRI)
- Educational charities and privatisations ((i) NZEI, NZPPTA, NZPF; (ii) Academy of Finland)
- Children's rights and capabilities (黑料网 Strategic Initiative Fund)
Research Opportunities
- Teaching and Learning in Everyday Activities and Settings (Ongoing) This research project explores how people learn in their everyday lives and the relationships between individual learning and family, neighbourhood and local community resources.
- Educational Charities and Privatisations (01/01/2015) This research project examines the extent to which educational charities fulfil their objectives and provide a public benefit, and to document their networks of influence.
Thematics
21st Century Citizenship
Area of Expertise
Field of research codes
Education (130000):
Education Systems (130100):
Educational Administration, Management and Leadership (130304):
Specialist Studies in Education (130300):
Teacher Education and Professional Development of Educators (130313)
Keywords
education policy, applied professional ethics
Research Projects
Completed Projects
Project Title: TLRI: The impact of Children's everyday learning on teaching and learning in classrooms and across schools
We aim to develop a deep understanding of how Year 5 students learn informally in their everyday lives outside school. This knowledge will be used to support teachers across 2 schools to develop and trial classroom pedagogies that are informed by their students' informal learning strengths. By year 3 of the research, these teachers will support other teachers across another 4 schools to access and use the evidence-based resources developed to harness children's informal learning pedagogies and interests.
This project explores how the knowledge of children's informal learning outside of school can enhance teaching and learning practice in the classroom. The first year researches young people's informal learning communities (ILCs). Year 5 students will develop rich media informal learning autobiographies that contribute directly to an Ako Manga professional learning process for their teachers. The second year continues the Ako Manga and the ongoing exploration of informal learning outside of school. It focuses on the teachers' experiences of incorporating informal learning (activities, pedagogies and assessments) into formal learning contexts alongside and for their students. The third year of the project involves teachers working across schools to explore whether multiple teacher communities can learn to adapt pedagogical practice across schools.
Read Project Description
Hide Project Description
Date Range: 2014 - 2019
Funding Body: New Zealand Council For Educational Research
Project Team:
- Prof Roseanna Bourke - Project Leader
- Prof John O'Neill - Project Leader
Project Title: Research Medal 2012 - Supervisor - Teaching and Learning in community newspapers
This study is part of a larger research project on teaching and learning in everyday activities and settings in the city of Palmerston North
This contributing project involves search, retrieval and storage of articles from local community newspaper microfiche archives in the City Library.
The purpose of the search is to permit analysis the frequency and variety of non-formal and informal teaching and learning activities offered in the community, and how these may have changed across several decades.
As a result of the analysis it should also be possible to map the availability of these activities in different localities within the city and to make preliminary assessments of the 'learning capital' that may exist at the neighbourhood level.
Read Project Description
Hide Project Description
Date Range: 2013 - 2014
Funding Body: 黑料网
Project Team:
- Prof John O'Neill - Project Leader
Research Outputs
Journal
Estellés, M., & O’Neill, J. (2024). Social Justice Imaginaries and Education Policy in Aotearoa New Zealand (2017–2024). New Zealand Journal of Educational Studies.
[Journal article]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
[Journal article]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
Read article at Massey Research Online:
Read Online:
Read Abstract: 
O'Neill, J. (2023). The degradation of teachers’ work, loss of teachable moments, demise of democracy and ascendancy of surveillance capitalism in schooling. New Zealand Journal of Teachers' Work. 20(2), 179-189 Retrieved from https://ojs.aut.ac.nz/teachers-work/article/view/607
[Journal article]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
[Journal article]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
Read Online:
Read Abstract:
O'Neill, J. (2023). The Beeby-Fraser ideal: is it time to abandon it?. Policy Quarterly. 19(3), 6-10 Retrieved from https://ojs.victoria.ac.nz/pq/article/view/8306
[Journal article]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
[Journal article]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
Read Abstract:
O’Neill, J. (2023). Recognition of Children’s Learning in Educational Research, Policy and Practice: Herbison Invited Lecture, NZARE Annual Conference 2022. New Zealand Journal of Educational Studies. 58(1), 5-30
[Journal article]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
[Journal article]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
Read article at Massey Research Online:
Read Online:
Read Abstract:
2
Keddie, A., MacDonald, K., Blackmore, J., Boyask, R., Fitzgerald, S., Gavin, M., . . . Yoon, ES. (2023). What needs to happen for school autonomy to be mobilised to create more equitable public schools and systems of education?. Australian Educational Researcher. 50(5), 1571-1597
[Journal article]Authored by: O'Neill, J.Contributed to by: O'Neill, J.
[Journal article]Authored by: O'Neill, J.Contributed to by: O'Neill, J.
Read article at Massey Research Online:
Read Online:
Read Abstract:
7
Book
Bourke, R., O'Neill, J., & Loveridge, J.(2024). Understanding children's informal learning: Appreciating everyday learners.
[Authored Book]Authored by: Bourke, R., O'Neill, J.
[Authored Book]Authored by: Bourke, R., O'Neill, J.
Read Online:
Read Abstract:
Bourke, R., O'Neill, J., & Loveridge, J. (2022). Children’s Rights, Student Voice, and Partnerships in Learning and Teaching. In MA. Peters (Ed.) Encyclopedia of Teacher Education. (pp. 1 - 6). Singapore: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd
[Chapter]Authored by: Bourke, R., O'Neill, J.
[Chapter]Authored by: Bourke, R., O'Neill, J.
Read Online:
Peters, MA., White, EJ., Besley, T., Locke, K., Redder, B., Novak, R., . . . Sturm, S. (2021). Video ethics in educational research involving children: Literature review and critical discussion. In The Methodology and Philosophy of Collective Writing: An Educational Philosophy and Theory Reader Volume X. (pp. 292 - 313).
[Chapter]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
[Chapter]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
1
Bourke, R., & O'Neill, J. (2021). Children's rights, student voice, informal learning and school reform. In Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Education. London: Oxford University Press
[Chapter]Authored by: Bourke, R., O'Neill, J.
[Chapter]Authored by: Bourke, R., O'Neill, J.
Read Online:
Read Abstract:
O'Neill, J. (2021). Trust in Schooling System Governance and Reform. In Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Education. London: Oxford University Press
[Chapter]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
[Chapter]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
Read Online:
Read Abstract:
Thesis
Donaldson, J. (2013). Between Two Worlds: Tensions of Practice encountered by secondary school music teachers in Aotearoa New Zealand. (Doctoral Thesis, 黑料网, Manawatu Campus, New Zealand)
[Doctoral Thesis]Authored by: Donaldson, J.Edited by: O'Neill, J.
[Doctoral Thesis]Authored by: Donaldson, J.Edited by: O'Neill, J.
Boyack, JE. (2011). Singing a joyful song: an exploratory study of primary school music leaders in Aotearoa New Zealand. (Doctoral Thesis, 黑料网)
[Doctoral Thesis]Edited by: O'Neill, J.
[Doctoral Thesis]Edited by: O'Neill, J.
Read Abstract:
Vossler, KR. (2006). Preparing Teachers as Professional Educators: A new Conception for Pre-Service Teacher Education. (Doctoral Thesis)
[Doctoral Thesis]Edited by: O'Neill, J.
[Doctoral Thesis]Edited by: O'Neill, J.
Read Abstract:
O'Neill, JG. (2001). Shards of teacher and curriculum development in four New Zealand secondary schools. (Doctoral Thesis, 黑料网)
[Doctoral Thesis]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
[Doctoral Thesis]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
Report
Bourke, R., O'Neill, J., McDowall, S., Dacre, M., Mincher, N., Narayanan, V., . . . Tuifagalele, R.(2021). Children's informal learning at home during COVID-19 lockdown. http://www.nzcer.org.nz/research/publications/learning-during-lockdown: NZCER
[Technical Report]Authored by: Bourke, R., Dacre, M., Mincher, N., O'Neill, J.
[Technical Report]Authored by: Bourke, R., Dacre, M., Mincher, N., O'Neill, J.
Read article at Massey Research Online:
Read Abstract:
Bourke, R., Butler, P., & O'Neill, J. (2021). Children with Additional Needs.
[Commissioned Report]Authored by: Bourke, R., Butler, P., O'Neill, J.
[Commissioned Report]Authored by: Bourke, R., Butler, P., O'Neill, J.
Haque, B., Ala'alatoa, B., Berryman, M., O'Neill, J., & Wylie, C. (2019). Our Schooling Futures:Stronger Together
Whiria Ng膩 Kura T奴膩tinitini
Final report by the Tomorrow’s
Schools Independent Taskforce.
[Commissioned Report]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
[Commissioned Report]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
Taskforce to Review Tomorrow's Schools, . (2018). Our Schooling Futures Stronger Together: Whiria Ng膩 Kura T奴膩tinitini.
[Commissioned Report]Contributed to by: O'Neill, J.
[Commissioned Report]Contributed to by: O'Neill, J.
Bourke, R., O'Neill, J., & Loveridge, J. (2018). The impact of children’s everyday learning on learning and teaching in classrooms and across schools..
[Commissioned Report]Authored by: Bourke, R., O'Neill, J.
[Commissioned Report]Authored by: Bourke, R., O'Neill, J.
Conference
O'Neill, J.The degradation of teachers’ work, the loss of teachable moments and the demise of democracy in schooling. . Palmerston North
[Conference Paper]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
[Conference Paper]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
O'Neill, J. (2022, November). Education for Sustainable Development. Presented at Innovation and Education for Sustainable Human Resource Development. Bangkok (online) https://edu.stou.ac.th/icie2022/.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
O'Neill, J. (2022, November). Recognition of Children's Learning in Educational Research, Policy and Practice. Presented at New Zealand Association for Research in Education. online https://www.nzare.org.nz/events/te-aonui-the-mighty-triangle/keynote-speakers/.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: O'Neill, J.
O'Neill, J., & Bourke, R. (2021, December). A framework for exploring children‘s understanding of their informal, everyday learning out of school.. Presented at Samoa Vaa Pasefika Education Conference 2021. National University of Samoa, Apia.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Bourke, R., O'Neill, J.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Bourke, R., O'Neill, J.
Other
O'Neill, J., & Bourke, R. (2023, September). What children tell us about the phenomenon of learning. In Children's Rights, Participation & Education Symposium. Presented at Queens University Belfast.
[Oral Presentation]Authored by: Bourke, R., O'Neill, J.
[Oral Presentation]Authored by: Bourke, R., O'Neill, J.
Read Abstract:
Teaching and Supervision
Teaching Statement
I currently teach educational leadership at postgraduate level and informal teaching and learning at undergraduate level.
Graduate Supervision Statement
I am particularly interested in supervising in the areas of education policy (teachers' work and privatisations), informal learning and teaching in everyday settings, and children's rights and capabilities.
Prof John O'Neill is available for Masters and Doctorial supervision.
Summary of Doctoral Supervision
| Position | Current | Completed |
|---|---|---|
| Main Supervisor | 4 | 12 |
| Co-supervisor | 4 | 7 |
Current Doctoral Supervision
Main Supervisor of:
-
Pavithradevi Ramasamy
-
Doctor of Philosophy
A Bourdieuan analysis of teacher agency in teacher continuous professional development in two countries -
Amar Nandyala
-
Doctor of Philosophy
Educational Interventions for Digital Literacy: Strengthening Young People's Ability to Combat Misinformation on Social Media. -
Tania-Maree Kelly Roxborogh
-
Doctor of Philosophy
Mana Orite - 鈥楢 Midsummer Night鈥檚 Dream鈥� and M膩tauranga M膩ori - Strategies to assist English teachers in Aotearoa New Zealand decolonize the teaching of Shakespeare -
Sarika Rona
-
Doctor of Philosophy
P奴r膩kau of learning experiences in the everyday lives of wh膩nau. Paying attention to the ordinary in our extraordinary lives.
Co-supervisor of:
-
Kisione Manu
-
Doctor of Philosophy
Evaluating the implementation and effectiveness of a Quality Assurance Policy on Post-Compulsory Education and Training Providers in Tonga. -
Sally Jackson
-
Doctor of Philosophy
Inclusive education in Aotearoa, New Zealand 1985-2021; stories of key decision makers and influencers -
Robin Staples
-
Doctor of Philosophy
Investigation of leadership practice for successful sustained development of new mathematics teaching strategies designed to improve equity. -
Maria Dacre
-
Doctor of Philosophy
Children's Participation in Curriculum Decision-Making to Support their Rights to be Self-DeterminingChildren's Participation in Curriculum Decision-Making to Support their Rights to be Self-Determining
Completed Doctoral Supervision
Main Supervisor of:
-
2023
-
Huidan Niu
-
Doctor of Philosophy
The Politics of Teacher Professionalism in Teacher Unions: A Case Study of Aotearoa New Zealand -
2021
-
Anne-Marie O'Neill
-
Doctor of Philosophy
A genealogical examination of curriculum-assessment as governmentality in Aotearoa New Zealand -
2018
-
Linda Warner
-
Doctor of Philosophy
Uncovering everyday learning and teaching within the quilting community of Aotearoa New Zealand -
2016
-
Moshi Mislay
-
Doctor of Philosophy
The Politics of Teachers' Work in the Context of Curriculum Resources Marketisation Policy Reforms in Three Secondary Schools in Tanzania -
2016
-
Derek Morrison
-
Doctor of Education
Exploring New Zealand's Rural Education Activities Programmes (REAPs): Social Capital in a Lifelong Learning and Community Development Context - view more...
Co-supervisor of:
-
2014
-
Marilyn Innes
-
Doctor of Philosophy
Tomorrows School : Todays Industry. Economic agendas and competitive forces in global education: New Zealand and South Korea -
2013
-
Ahmad Zabidi Abdul Razak
-
Doctor of Philosophy
Learning about teachers' resilience: Perceptions, challenges and strategies of policy implementation in two secondary schools in Malaysia -
2012
-
Jennifer Boyack
-
Doctor of Philosophy
Singing A Joyful Song: An Exploratory Study of Primary School Music Leaders in Aotearoa New Zealand -
2011
-
Anne-Grete Elliot
-
Doctor of Education
From preservice teacher education to the primary classroom: An investigation into beginning teachers' experiences with information and communication technology. -
2008
-
Patricia Stringer
-
Doctor of Education
Capacity Building for School Improvement: A Case Study of a New Zealand Primary School - view more...
Media and Links
Media
-
11 Aug 2013 - Newspaper
Top tips on how to pick a school
Feature in Sunday Star Times p. A11 Advice to parents selecting secondary schools for their children