Top 10 Educational Research Books

Erica Potter
9 min readSep 3, 2024

Dive into the world of educational research with our curated list of top books. In this article, we've handpicked must-read titles that will inspire and enlighten you on the latest theories and practices in the field of education. From groundbreaking studies to practical guides, our roundup offers something for everyone. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of Educational Research Books.

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1. Encyclopedia of Educational Research

Encyclopedia of Educational Research | Image

Unlock the doors to a wealth of knowledge with Marvin C. Alkin's Encyclopedia of Educational Research.

This comprehensive reference, published by MacMillan Reference Library, is an essential guide through the last 50 years of educational research. Sponsored by the prestigious American Educational Research Association, this encyclopedia delivers a rigorous and critical synthesis of the data collected, interpreting its meaning from pre-school to post-secondary education.

Spanning a vast array of subjects, it acts as the perfect companion for educators, researchers, and scholars seeking to further their understanding and impact on the educational landscape.

  • Authors: Marvin C. Alkin
  • Publisher: MacMillan Reference Library
  • Published Date: March 30, 1992
  • Page Count: 490
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Education
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

2. Introduction to Educational Research

Introduction to Educational Research | Image

Unlock the mysteries of educational research with a practical and engaging introductory guide. "Introduction to Educational Research" by C. M. Charles and Craig A. Mertler is an essential companion for students seeking to dive into the world of research and data analysis. This authoritative text not only provides a comprehensive introduction to qualitative and quantitative research methods but also helps readers build their first educational research projects.

Organized into eight comprehensive chapters, this book guides readers through research planning, obtaining and analyzing data, addressing research questions and hypotheses, and preparing research reports. The chapter structure doubles as an interactive learning experience, allowing readers to simultaneously prepare a research plan and become adept in employing research concepts.

One of the standout features of this comprehensive guide is its "Applying Technology" sections, which ensure readers stay current and proficient in utilizing relevant technology throughout the research process. As a testament to the authors' commitment to clear understanding and the practical application of research concepts, several pedagogical features have been woven into the book.

Designed for students looking to make strides in their understanding and proficiency in educational research, this book serves as the perfect starting point for any educational pursuit. Embrace the transformative power of knowledge and embark on your educational research adventure with confidence.

  • Authors: C. M. Charles, Craig A. Mertler
  • Publisher: Allyn & Bacon
  • Published Date: March 30, 2002
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Education
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

3. What does Good Education Research Look Like?

What does Good Education Research Look Like? | Image

"What does Good Education Research Look Like? " delves into the critical examination of the quality and value of education research, highlighting its need to meet diverse demands in various circumstances. This insightful guide offers detailed analysis of six education research domains: thesis, research grant applications, journal articles, consultancy applications, book publishing, and the press, each assessed by different judges and networks with varying expectations and criteria for success.

In this in-depth examination, Lyn Yates poses provocative questions regarding the nature of good research and its failings. The book serves as an indispensable companion to existing research methodology texts. It elucidates the challenges faced by education researchers, emphasizing that banalities and disorderliness are prevalent in their field and urging researchers to navigate these uncertainties and maintain rigor in their work.

This comprehensive and well-researched volume provides both novice and experienced researchers with valuable guidance, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of education research and promoting a well-informed approach to conducting impactful studies.

  • Authors: Lyn Yates
  • Publisher: McGraw-Hill Education (UK)
  • Published Date: March 16, 2004
  • Page Count: 230
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Education
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

4. Methodology of Educational Research

Methodology of Educational Research | Image

Unravel the mysteries of educational research methodology with R. P. Pathak's comprehensive guide, specifically crafted for M. Ed. and M. Phil. students and research scholars. This essential textbook, published by Atlantic Publishers & Dist in 2008, delves into the importance and significance of research in education. Covering topics such as action research, research process, sampling, tools of research, and report writing, this book offers invaluable insights into the application of scientific methodology in the realm of education.

Written in a well-structured and clear language, Methodology of Educational Research is your ultimate resource in understanding the nuances of research and its role in enhancing the effectiveness of educators. This insightful book is meticulously researched and provides an Indianized approach to address the unique challenges and requirements of Indian education.

Whether you are a student, teacher, educator, or a research scholar seeking to deepen your comprehension of educational research or planning original research for your dissertation or thesis, this book is your essential guide. With a focus on the importance of research in shaping the future of education, Methodology of Educational Research is a must-have reference tool in your journey towards promoting the advancement of Indian education.

  • Authors: R.P. Pathak
  • Publisher: Atlantic Publishers & Dist
  • Published Date: March 30, 2008
  • Page Count: 210
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Education
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

5. Conducting Educational Research

Conducting Educational Research | Image

Guide to Completing a Major Project

Delve into the intricacies of educational research with "Conducting Educational Research: Guide to Completing a Major Project" by Daniel J. Boudah.

This comprehensive manual walks you through each stage of the research process, leaving no stone unturned. Whether you're developing focused research questions, exploring pre-existing literature, or selecting the perfect research design, measurement, and analysis techniques, each chapter delivers concise guidance tailormade for your major project.

With features and activities that ensure you're asking the right questions and producing high-quality research, this guide is your indispensable companion on the journey towards successful educational research.

  • Authors: Daniel J. Boudah
  • Publisher: SAGE
  • Published Date: September 13, 2010
  • Page Count: 337
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Education
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

6. Conducting Educational Research

Conducting Educational Research | Image

"Conducting Educational Research" is the ultimate guide for budding student researchers in the field of education. This comprehensive resource, penned by the renowned Bruce W.

Tuckman and Brian E. Harper, covers the essential principles of scholarly investigation in a concise and clear manner. With its wealth of practical examples and reinforcement of key concepts, even the most inexperienced student-researchers can grasp the fundamentals of conducting research in education.

Published by Rowman & Littlefield Publishers in 2012, this 532-page volume is an invaluable resource for anyone eager to delve into the world of educational research.

  • Authors: Bruce W. Tuckman, Brian E. Harper
  • Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
  • Published Date: February 09, 2012
  • Page Count: 532
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Education
  • Average Rating: 1.0
  • Ratings Count: 1.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

7. Educational Research

Educational Research | Image

Planning, Conducting, and Evaluating Quantitative and Qualitative Research

Immerse yourself in the realm of educational research through renowned author John W. Creswell's all-encompassing guide, "Educational Research: Planning, Conducting, and Evaluating Quantitative and Qualitative Research." The revised edition, published in 2012, provides an extensive examination of the distinct phases of quantitative and qualitative methodologies in the field of education.

Creswell expertly leads readers through each stage of the process, starting from pinpointing a research issue that defines the research objective to reporting and assessing findings. A new emphasis on ethical dilemmas adds dimension to the examination of ethical issues in research. Additionally, readers will derive advantage from helpful tips for both producers and consumers of research, alongside novel sample articles from scholarly journals.

This indispensable asset offers chapter study questions with a solution key, statistical appendices, additional resources, updated citations, and access to an online learning resource, ensuring that students and professionals acquire a well-rounded grasp of the topic.

"Educational Research" stands as a reliable option for those wishing to expand their understanding of research techniques in the education sector, with its well-balanced blend of interest and insight.

  • Authors: John W. Creswell
  • Publisher: Pearson Education
  • Published Date: March 30, 2012
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Education
  • Average Rating: 5.0
  • Ratings Count: 2.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

8. An Introduction to Educational Research

An Introduction to Educational Research | Image

Connecting Methods to Practice

An Introduction to Educational Research: Connecting Methods to Practice, a masterpiece penned by the dynamic duo of Chad R. Lochmiller and Jessica N. Lester, is an indispensable resource for educators seeking to amplify their understanding of research methods, aligning them with professional experiences. With a practical-first approach that weaves research methods with the everyday realities of educators, the book serves as the perfect guide to conduct research that matters.

Authors Lochmiller and Lester deftly elucidate complex research ideas using illustrations grounded in problems of practice confronting educators, making it easier for readers to grapple with these concepts. The authors' balanced coverage of research methodologies is interwoven with their applicability to practice, offering readers a clear perspective on how research can shape improvements in classrooms, schools, districts, and educational organizations.

A comprehensive resource for the realm of education, An Introduction to Educational Research: Connecting Methods to Practice is a must-have for educational practitioners seeking to forge a solid connection between research and practical application.

  • Authors: Chad R. Lochmiller, Jessica N. Lester
  • Publisher: SAGE Publications
  • Published Date: December 11, 2015
  • Page Count: 555
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Education
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

9. Educational Research

Educational Research | Image

Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed Approaches

Educational Research: Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed Approaches by R. Burke Johnson and Larry Christensen provides students with a foundational understanding of essential research methods and strategies used in education and related fields. This comprehensive, user-friendly textbook, suitable for undergraduate and graduate students, aims to empower readers with the skills to critically evaluate published research, write a proposal, create a questionnaire, and execute their own empirical research studies.

Renowned for its clarity, this bestseller inspires students to become critical consumers and users of research, making it an invaluable resource for their academic journey.

  • Authors: R. Burke Johnson, Larry Christensen
  • Publisher: SAGE Publications
  • Published Date: September 15, 2016
  • Page Count: 1087
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Education
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

10. Educational Research

Educational Research | Image

Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed Approaches

In the world of education and related disciplines, Educational Research: Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed Approaches is an essential read for undergraduate and graduate students. Authored by R. Burke Johnson and Larry Christensen, this comprehensive guide was published by SAGE Publications in 2016.

This invaluable resource offers a user-friendly introduction to the diverse research methodologies commonly employed in the educational realm. Regardless of prior knowledge, readers will establish a solid foundation in the various strategies and techniques utilized within these studies.

Equipped with this text, learners will master the art of critically evaluating published research and successfully write their own research proposals, formulate questionnaires, and execute empirical studies. Student praise for this bestseller is unanimous, praising its clarity and utility in fostering knowledgeable research consumers and producers.

Boasting an impressive page count of 745, Educational Research: Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed Approaches serves as an indispensable resource for students and professionals alike. Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your research skills - grab your copy today!

  • Authors: R. Burke Johnson, Larry Christensen
  • Publisher: SAGE Publications
  • Published Date: September 15, 2016
  • Page Count: 745
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Education
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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