1 Educational Research: Theory and Practice

This book provides an accessible introduction to the philosophy of educational research. A historical-philosophical journey presents the development of research methods from their origins to the present day. In addition, the book reflects on how research methods have influenced scientific effectiveness. Throughout, the book covers the principal things that need to be known today about the theory and practice of educational research, its epistemological bases, and its development as a discipline within scientific knowledge. The historical events that defined both the methodological evolution and the current situation of contemporary educational research are described to enable its understanding. This book provides an accessible introduction to the philosophy of educational research. A historical-philosophical journey presents the development of research methods from their origins to the present day... It can also be used as didactic material for classroom discussions on educational research, educational philosophy, and current controversies in education. Its usefulness reaches the social sciences, humanities, and experimental sciences in all areas related to teaching and training. The basis of educational research is exposed, both in its concepts or philosophical visions and methodologies, which ultimately define what education means today. Topics discussed in the book include: • Basics of Educational Research; • Mixed, Quantitative and Qualitative Models; • Ethics in Scientific Research; • Current Problems in Education; • Historical Evolution of Educational Research; Main contents: Theory and Practice of Educational Research; The Problems of Public Education; Philosophy-Based Research; The Debate between Quantitative and Qualitative Paradigms: Alternative Visions of How to Research Education; The Emergence of Mixed Methods in Educational Research; Science-Based Research and Evidence-Based Decision-Making; Scientific Research and Education; From Research Applied to Practice to Research Embedded in Practice; Educational Research in an Era of Ethics in Scientific Research; The Use of Standardized Tests to Measure; Research-Evaluation of Learning.