Recording-2025-01-21T03:08:01.365Z

Analytical Research Design

• Definition: A mode of inquiry that investigates events, ideas, concepts, or artifacts by analyzing various media, documents, records, and recordings.

• Classification: Similar to qualitative research, it can be classified as qualitative due to its investigative nature.

Importance of Contextual Information

• Historical Analysis: Involves systematic gathering and criticism of documents to describe and interpret past events using both qualitative and quantitative data.

• Legal Analysis: Focuses on law and court decisions to assess their influence on educational practices.

• Concept Analysis: Concerns implications and applications of educational concepts, such as high-stakes testing and performance assessment.

Purpose or Goal-Based Classification of Research

• Basic Research:

  • Purpose: The development of theories and broad generalizations about relationships between phenomena.

  • Characteristics: Not concerned with practical applications; primarily theoretical.

  • Examples: Studies on memory systems, language development, and social development.

• Applied Research:

  • Purpose: To test theories in natural educational settings with a focus on solving specific problems.

  • Characteristics: Results relevant to decision-making in education and applicable across different settings.

  • Examples: Comparing teaching styles, examining effective school characteristics, exploring the impact of school day length on achievement.

• Action Research:

  • Purpose: To solve specific classroom or school problems and improve practice immediately.

  • Types: Individual teacher research, collaborative action research, and school-wide action research.

  • Role of Teachers: Teachers conduct research to improve their classroom practices; administrators may use these strategies for overall school improvement.

Evaluation Research

• Purpose: To assess program effectiveness and desirability, guiding decision-making about educational programs.

• Focus: Specific locations or types of programs, posing judgment queries like:

  • Which reading curriculum should be implemented?

  • Did the new program succeed?

  • Should the district opt for multiple small schools or one large school?

  • What’s the impact of increased technology on student knowledge and attitudes?

Summary of Major Types of Educational Research

• A summary with additional examples can be found in Table 1.2, which categorizes research based on purpose and methodology.