Case studies
We work closely with our clients to design bespoke research that meets their needs and have been privileged to deliver robust, evidence-based insights to some of the most exciting organisations in the education sector. You can also visit the research reports page to explore our public-facing work, including free independent research.

Brand perception eSurvey and interviews
Through 5 initial cognitive interviews, 22 in-depth interviews and a comprehensive eSurvey with 4,500 responses, we provided CUP Academic with a solid understanding of priority areas for their strategy.
Publishing and media companies
Interviews around primary chemistry resources
We conducted 40 phone interviews with primary teachers who taught science to explore their experiences and challenges, as well as their perceptions of RSC services.
Public sector and not-for-profitHigher Education strategies research
We carried out 8 in-depth interviews for a leading HE service provider to identify trends, similarities and differences around the strategic direction of universities since similar research 2 years earlier.
Universities, HEIS and FEISThe Network research
We conducted desk research and a series of interviews to provide rich insight into The Network's customer base, particularly the needs and challenges they face.
Awarding organisationsAlumni survey 2019
In addition to exploring needs and preferences, this Russell Group university wanted to gain a deeper understanding of alumni connection and engagement behaviour to inform future strategic decisions.
Universities, HEIS and FEIS
Internal engagement and communication focus groups
Shift Learning ran seven focus groups with University of Southampton staff, from a range of locations and roles, to inform improvements to internal communications.
Universities, HEIS and FEIS
PhD survey 2019
Nature wanted to ensure their biennial PhD Survey resonated with students, so we conducted cognitive interviews before designing the survey and analysing almost 7,000 responses.
Publishing and media companies
Ethical challenges in academic publishing
The Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) aimed to better understanding the needs of its Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences (AHSS) members in order to provide appropriate publication ethics support and resources.
Publishing and media companies
Exploring global salary trends among scientists
Nature's 2018 salary survey sought to incorporate emerging themes – including mental health and workplace discrimination. The survey enabled us to conduct a Key Driver Analysis, exploring which factors drive overall job satisfaction amongst employees.
Publishing and media companies
Evaluating student satisfaction
We used quantitative analysis and exploratory focus groups to help the University of London draw insights from its Student Experience Survey (SES).
Universities, HEIS and FEIS
Researching London school leaders’ views on future challenges
In order to explore the challenges faced by schools, we interviewed 48 London head teachers from a broad range of schools.
Public sector and not-for-profit
Investigating the viability of a new training offer from a learning disability theatre company
Access All Areas (AAA) wanted to assess the viability of a profit-making training subsidiary to support their charitable aims, and asked Shift Learning to undertake a market review in two sectors: education and healthcare.
Public sector and not-for-profit