Alison Black

Alison Black is an Associate Professor in the School of Education at the University of Exeter. She is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy with expertise in diversity, educational inclusion, and special educational needs (SEN). Her teaching contributions span postgraduate programmes including the MA Education (Special Educational Needs) and Initial Teacher Education programmes.

Her educational background includes:

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Inclusive Education from the University of Exeter (awarded 2013)
• Master of Education (MEd) in Special Educational Needs with Distinction from the University of Exeter (2009)
• Bachelor of Science (BSc Hons) in Natural and Applied Science and Primary Education with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) from Edge Hill University College (2001)

Professor Black's research focuses on diversity, educational inclusion, and special educational needs (SEN). Her extensive research portfolio addresses inclusion and educational (in)equity using both quantitative and qualitative methodologies including semi-structured interviews, observations, survey design, thematic analysis, and statistical analysis. Her work contributes significantly to understanding equitable educational environments for students with SEN and English as an Additional Language (EAL).

Her professional recognition includes:

• Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (2020)
• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (2017)

Professor Black actively supervises postgraduate research students in special educational needs and inclusive education. Her teacher training coordination received exceptional OfSTED recognition in 2023 for enabling trainees to "learn extremely well how to identify and support pupils with SEND and pupils who speak EAL," developing deep knowledge of teaching adaptations.