What Makes Education Research 'Educational'?
This paper explores the essence of education research and what sets it apart from other disciplines. It emphasizes the importance of focusing on the instructional dynamic—the intricate interactions between teachers, students, and content—at the core of education. The authors critique the tendency to emulate other social sciences, arguing instead for a distinctive approach that directly addresses educational processes. By showcasing case studies, the paper illustrates how this approach can solve real-world problems in classrooms and beyond. This is a must-read for anyone passionate about improving education through meaningful and targeted research.
This paper explores the essence of education research and what sets it apart from other disciplines. It emphasizes the importance of focusing on the instructional dynamic—the intricate interactions between teachers, students, and content—at the core of education. The authors critique the tendency to emulate other social sciences, arguing instead for a distinctive approach that directly addresses educational processes. By showcasing case studies, the paper illustrates how this approach can solve real-world problems in classrooms and beyond. This is a must-read for anyone passionate about improving education through meaningful and targeted research.
This paper explores the essence of education research and what sets it apart from other disciplines. It emphasizes the importance of focusing on the instructional dynamic—the intricate interactions between teachers, students, and content—at the core of education. The authors critique the tendency to emulate other social sciences, arguing instead for a distinctive approach that directly addresses educational processes. By showcasing case studies, the paper illustrates how this approach can solve real-world problems in classrooms and beyond. This is a must-read for anyone passionate about improving education through meaningful and targeted research.
Deborah Loewenberg Ball and Francesca M. Forzani, December 2007