Paradigms
In this area you'll find resources that look at the nature of educational research and the assumptions which underpin the types of knowledge that it seeks. There is also a discussion of ethical issues.
What is educational research? Principles and debates [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)]
This material examines the influence of natural sciences on educational research methodology and the criticisms that have been made of this influence. It also considers the diversity methods that has arisen within the field.
Methodological paradigms in educational research
Martin Hammersley discusses the concept of paradigms and typologies of educational research
Engaging with educational research
Begin this section at Activity 3. This material introduces the area and discusses how different ontological and epistemological positions lead to different paradigmatic positions and methodological orientations.
Approaches to educational research and its assessment
This section looks at the general approaches , and considers the relationship between qualitative and quantitative approaches, and notions of validity, reliability and relevance. It is taken from E835 Educational research in action, a masters-level programme.
Ethics in educational research
Ethics is an important and integral part of educational research. These materials were produced for the British Educational Research Association (BERA):
- Ethics and educational research: How to identify the ethical principles that can arise in different research situations
- Ethical issues in online research: This resource discusses general ethical issues online research and draws distinctions between ethical practice in online and traditional environments.
Welcome to Open Educational Research Assets (OPERA)