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Approaches
There are two main approaches in educational research. The first is a basic approach. This approach is also referred to as an academic research approach. The second approach is applied research or a contract research approach. Both of these approaches have different purposes which influence the nature of the respective research.
Basic approach
Basic, or academic research focuses on the search for truth or the development of educational theory. Researchers with this background "design studies that can test, refine, modify, or develop theories". Generally, these researchers are affiliated with an academic institution and are performing this research as part of their graduate or doctoral work.
Applied approach
The pursuit of information that can be directly applied to practice is aptly known as applied or contractual research. Researchers in this field are trying to find solutions to existing educational problems. The approach is much more utilitarian as it strives to find information that will directly influence practice. Applied researchers are commissioned by a sponsor and are responsible for addressing the needs presented by this employer. The goal of this research is "to determine the applicability of educational theory and principles by testing hypotheses within specific settings".
Comparison of basic and applied research
The following are several defining characteristics that were written by Gary Anderson to compare basic (academic) and applied (contract) research.
1 | Is sponsored by an agency committed to the general advancement of knowledge. | Is sponsored by an agency with a vested interest in the results. |
2 | Results are the property of society and the research community. | Results become the property of the sponsor. |
3 | Studies rely on the established reputations of the researchers and are totally under their control. | Studies follow explicit terms of reference developed by the sponsor to serve the sponsor's needs. |
4 | Budget allocations are generally based on global proposals and accounting is left to the researchers. | Budget accountability is directly related to the sponsor and relates to agreed terms of reference, time frames and methodologies. |
5 | The conduct of research is based on 'good faith' between funder and researcher. | The work is contractual between sponsor and researcher. |
6 | The research produces findings and conclusions, but rarely recommendations except those related to further research needs. | The research includes applied recommendations for action. |
7 | Academic research tends to extend an identifiable scholarly discipline. | By its nature, contract research tends to be interdisciplinary. |
8 | Academic research is typically focused on a single set of testable hypotheses. | Contract research frequently analyzes the consequences of alternative policy options. |
9 | Decision-rules relate to theoretically-based tests of statistical significance. | Decision-rules relate to predetermined conventions and agreements between the sponsor and the researcher. |
10 | Research reports are targeted to other specialized researchers in the same field. | Research reports are intended to be read and understood by lay persons. |
AF Sitemap
- Education Topics
- Achievement Gap
- Alternative Education
- Assessment & Evaluation
- Educational Leadership
- Educational Philosophy
- Educational Research
- Educational Technology
- Educational Videos
- Education Economics
- Education Environment
- Education Issues
- Education Policy
- Education Psychology
- Education Reform
- Education Theory
- Education Worldwide
- Federal Education Legislation
- Homeless Education
- Homeschooling in the United States
- Migrant Education
- Neglected/Deliquent Students
- Pedagogy
- Sociology of Education
- Special Needs
- National Directories
- After School Programs
- Alternative Schools
- The Arts
- At-Risk Students
- Camps
- Camp Services
- Colleges & Universities
- Counties
- Driving Schools
- Educational Businesses
- Financial Aid
- Higher Education
- International Programs
- Jewish Community Centers
- K-12 Schools
- Language Studies
- Libraries
- Organizations
- Preschools
- Professional Development
- Prom Services
- School Assemblies
- School Districts
- School Field Trips
- School Health
- School Supplies
- School Travel
- School Vendors
- Schools Worldwide
- Special Education
- Special Needs
- Study Abroad
- Teaching Abroad
- Volunteer Programs
- Youth Sports
- For Schools
- Academic Standards
- Assembly Programs
- Blue Ribbon Schools Program
- Educational Accreditation
- Educational Television Channels
- Education in the United States
- History of Education in the United States
- Reading Education in the U.S.
- School Grades
- School Meal Programs
- School Types
- School Uniforms
- Special Education in the United States
- Systems of Formal Education
- U.S. Education Legislation
- For Teachers
- Academic Dishonesty
- Childcare State Licensing Requirements
- Classroom Management
- Education Subjects
- Educational Videos
- Interdisciplinary Teaching
- Job and Interview Tips
- Lesson Plans | Grades
- Professional Development
- State Curriculum Standards
- Substitute Teaching
- Teacher Salary
- Teacher Training Programs
- Teaching Methods
- Training and Certification
- For Students
- Academic Competitions
- Admissions Testing
- At-Risk Students
- Career Planning
- College Admissions
- Drivers License
- Educational Programs
- Educational Television
- Educational Videos
- High School Dropouts
- Higher Education
- School Health
- Senior Proms
- Sex Education
- Standardized Testing
- Student Financial Aid
- Student Television Stations
- Summer Learning Loss