Common Research Elements

Some common elements of educational research methodology include the focusing on a research problem, making a hypothesis, identifying the variables, locating and reviewing related literature, and the use of educational measures.

Research questions, sampling and levels of measurement can be applied to special education research to identify effective instructional methods and program practices. This can be done by finding a problem or instructional method to address then developing a broad question to guide the research Rumrill, Cook, and Wiley, 2011). Sampling is used to represent the population to which the findings will be generalized. In special education this enables the researcher to work with a manageable amount of subjects. Levels of measurement are used to identify where the dependent variables lie. For example, the levels of achievement in the intervention and the amount of time administered are documented and used to determine the effects and outcomes.

In the classroom setting, teachers  can use this information to determine the benefits of an intervention that is being used. This can be done by documenting the levels of achievement acquired by students who are in the intervention group with those in a group not using it. This is called  the control group. This information can then be used to make changes in the intervention program as needed.

Rumrill, P, Cook, B., & Wiley, A. (2011). Research in special education: designs, methods, and applications. Springfield, IL: Charles C. Thomas Publisher, LTD.