Foundations of Educational Theory and Research

Are you beginning your journey in educational studies or professional practice? Establish a strong theoretical base by mastering the fundamental concepts that drive effective learning environments. This text-only course provides a comprehensive introduction to the foundational theories and practical research techniques used in education. You will move from understanding basic learning models and philosophical approaches to applying ethical research standards and analyzing different teaching methods, preparing you to critically evaluate educational systems. ### What you'll learn * Understand the major philosophical schools and their impact on modern educational thought. * Analyze classical and contemporary learning theories, including behaviorism, constructivism, and the basics of connectivism. * Master the fundamentals of educational research design, covering qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods. * Apply ethical principles and accessibility considerations when designing learning experiences and conducting studies. * Practice evaluating different teaching methodologies and instructional design models. The course begins with key terminology and historical context before progressing to detailed explorations of learning psychology and practical research applications. The final sections focus on evaluating instruction and integrating modern educational technology concepts. This course is designed for absolute beginners, students, or professionals seeking a rigorous, non-technical introduction to educational theory and research. No prior background in education or social science is required to begin. Start building your expertise in the science of teaching and learning today.