Doing Educational Research

This book is about 13 educationalists who have done educational research. They discuss the different stages of the research process, from conception to publication. The book is helpful for students and researchers, as it provides new understanding for those who read and use educational research.

Doing Educational Research collects together the semi-autobiographical accounts of the research of 13 educationalists, all of whom have been involved in prominent and influential projects. In recounting the ways in which their work was conducted, the authors focus on the practical and personal aspects of the research process, so often overlooked in conventional accounts. Coping with the complicated and the unpredictable emerges as a keynote in these descriptions of the reality of educational research. The authors discuss the various stages of the research process including conception of the project, obtaining funding, gaining access to the research site, managing research relationships, gathering information, analyzing data, writing up the research report, publishing books and articles, and the reception given to the research by others. Educationalists, policy-makers, and those involved in education research should all benefit from a greater knowledge of the research methods used in these major studies. The book offers new understanding for those who read and use educational research, and should be a source of support and guidance for students and researchers. This book should be