Why Research is Useful for Practitioners

There are several reasons why research is useful to the scholar-practitioner. First, it can enhance your knowledge about the profession. You may be an experienced education leader; however, it is important to recognize that new problems will continue to arise. In order to be an effective leader, you need to understand those problems, learn what is known about the problem, and use research findings to enhance your knowledge of educational practices or educational leadership. Second, it can assist you with the development of your own opinion regarding policy. Research can inform your position about current topics under debate and expand your understanding of issues related to education reform and enhancement. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, research can help you improve your leadership skills. Research provides you with ideas on how to improve your day-to-day practice. It can offer insight about new ideas and innovative practices to consider integrating into your day-to-day work.

Where to Find Appropriate Research Sources

Research can be found in several different publications, and it is important to understand which resources are most useful to you as a doctoral student. Books and journal articles are reviewed by experts in the field and are the most appropriate to refer to in your doctoral studies. Additionally, you can cite early-stage materials such as websites, conference papers, dissertations, and doctoral studies. It is important to note that information available on a website is from a reputable source (e.g., U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, EdTrust). Conference papers are often found on professional organization websites (e.g., American Educational Research Association). Dissertations and doctoral studies are most often found in ProQuest.

The Ed.D. Program will require you to read and refer to research on a regular basis. You will utilize research to assist in your development as a scholar-practitioner. Therefore, it is important to know where and how to locate appropriate research.

Use the assigned readings to write a 3 page paper that addresses the following:

1. Describe in your own words the differences between basic and applied research. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of applied research. Include a discussion of how you will begin to

integrate research into your professional practice as an educational leader/educator.

2. Recommend at least two audiences that might benefit from this study and how the article is relevant to your current practice as an educator.