The Urgency of Research in Educational Management
(Definition, Function, Advantages of Research, and Other Studies Similar to Research)
Neng Resa Rostiani / MPI Study Program / Student of UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung
Amid globalization and digital transformation, the world of education faces increasingly complex challenges. The quality of learning, school governance, and public policies demand solutions that cannot rely solely on intuition but must be based on data and research. Here, research in educational management emerges not only as an academic requirement but as a strategic foundation for building more effective policies and practices.
First, in terms of definition and essence, educational management research is a systematic, logical, and empirical activity aimed at discovering and developing knowledge, while also solving real problems in managing educational institutions. According to Kerlinger, research is systematic, controlled, empirical, and critical, while Gay and Mills emphasize its role in decision-making. Research distinguishes itself from mere observation because it is grounded in theory and scientific methods. With research, policies can be evidence-based rather than merely intuitive. Essentially, research plays a dual role: enriching knowledge while improving educational management practices to be more measurable, effective, and innovative.
Second, research has strategic functions covering theoretical, practical, policy, and academic dimensions. Theoretically, research generates new theories and updates outdated concepts to remain relevant to contemporary developments. Practically, research helps educational institutions address everyday problems, such as low student motivation or the effectiveness of specific programs. In terms of policy, research is vital in supporting evidence-based policy, enabling decisions to be fairer and more targeted. Academically, research trains students and scholars to develop critical and scientific thinking.
Third, research has fundamental advantages compared to other studies. It provides objective and measurable data, thus reducing bias in decision-making. Research findings also offer reliable scientific evidence for innovation and allow replication so that knowledge can be tested in different contexts. Therefore, research not only produces reports but also builds academic and practical legitimacy in education.
Fourth, although there are other studies similar to research, such as program evaluation, literature reviews, case studies, or scientific essays, there are still fundamental differences. These studies are important as complements but are not as strong as research in producing new, testable knowledge. Evaluation emphasizes measuring outcomes, literature reviews focus on theoretical sources, while case studies and essays are more descriptive-reflective. Hence, research maintains a central position as the driving force of educational innovation.
Research in educational management is a key pillar that bridges theory, policy, and practice. Through research, education does not walk in the darkness of assumptions but is guided by data and scientific analysis. Essentially, research is not only an academic obligation but also a strategic need to create fair policies, improve education quality, and foster sustainable innovation. By cultivating a culture of research among educators, students, and education managers, Indonesia can face the challenges of 21st-century education with greater confidence.
This paper is excerpted from the Teaching Material of the Research Methodology in Management Course, Part 2: Research in Educational Management: A Strategic Pillar for Quality and Innovation. Lecturer: Prof. Dr. H. A. Rusdiana, M.M.