An Introduction to Educational Research: Connecting Methods to Practice

Written specifically for education practitioners, An Introduction to Educational Research: Connecting Methods to Practice approaches research methods from a practice-first perspective that aligns research with professional experiences and identifies the tools and resources readers can use when conducting their own research. Throughout the book, authors Chad R. Lochmiller and Jessica N. Lester illuminate complex research concepts using problems of practice confronting educators to help readers make meaningful connections with key concepts and research practices. The authors present balanced coverage across research methodologies that is linked to practice, so readers clearly see research as a tool they can use to improve classrooms, schools, districts, and educational organizations.

Table of Contents

Part I Examining the Foundations of Educational Research
Chapter 1 Studying Education Practice with Research
Chapter 2 Designing a Research Study
Chapter 3 Reviewing the Literature
Chapter 4 Considering Research Ethics

Part II Considering Approaches to Educational Research
Chapter 5 Introducing Qualitative Research
Chapter 6 Introducing Quantitative Research
Chapter 7 Collecting Qualitative and Quantitative Data
Chapter 8 Completing Qualitative Data Analysis
Chapter 9 Completing Quantitative Data Analysis
Chapter 10 Introducing Mixed Methods Research and Analysis
Chapter 11 Introducing Action Research

Part III Producing Research to Improve Practice
Chapter 12 Writing the Research
Chapter 13 Using and Sharing Research to Improve Practice