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Research
The Open University has conducted research into What on Earth! Magazine, exploring the how non-fiction can be used to engage children and encourage reading for pleasure.
Summary of findings:
- Reading engagement increased overall, with reluctant readers showing the most notable improvement.
- Pupils developed a growing interest in non-fiction.
- The magazine provided a flexible and visually engaging alternative to traditional reading materials, encouraging self-directed exploration and curiosity.
- Informal, relaxed classroom environments supported pupils’ autonomy and motivation to read.
- Regular access to the magazine promoted reading for pleasure and sparked informal ‘book talk’ both in school and at home.
- The shared reading experience helped build a sense of community and positively reshaped pupils’ reader identities.
"What on Earth! Magazine provided a flexible, inclusive and engaging format that supported reluctant readers in particular by extending new pathways into reading for pleasure. The magazine afforded them space for autonomy, authentic interaction around issues of personal and common interest and enabled the experience of reading to be shared."
Teresa Cremin,
Professor of Education (Literacy) at The Open University
(Phase 2 Report)
Read the full reports here:
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Phase 1
Read hereThe What on Earth! Magazine Engagement Study, conducted during a 12-week period between April and July 2023, explored the possibility of a children’s monthly non-fiction magazine to increase reading engagement with Year 5 pupils.
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Phase 2
Read hereBetween September and December 2024, 24 Year 5 classes from 13 UK primary schools took part in a 12‑week study. Each week, 481 pupils (ages 9–10) and their teachers explored What on Earth! Magazine for 30 minutes, with engagement assessed through surveys, focus groups and interviews.
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Phase 3
Read hereExplored how What on Earth! Magazine engaged Year 4 and 5 pupils (ages 8–10) in three primary schools in Kingston upon Hull. This local study builds on earlier Open University research showing the magazine’s potential to spark curiosity, support reader identity and encourage reading for pleasure.
If you would like more information or have any questions, please email: john@whatonearthmag.com
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