Getting to Know the Foundations of Educational Management Research Methodology

By Lani Rahmawati (1232010119) 5th Semester Student / Department of Islamic Education Management, Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training, Bachelor's Degree Program, UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung.

The development of educational research now requires a deeper understanding of methodology, not just data collection techniques. In the era of big data and artificial intelligence, quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods approaches are increasingly relevant to addressing educational policy and management issues. However, the challenge of low methodological literacy among students and educators is still felt, especially in Indonesia. This article discusses the importance of philosophical foundations, research paradigms, and data analysis as the basis for research. The hope is that educational research will become a strategic instrument for the development of science and policy, not merely a fulfillment of academic requirements.

First: Quantitative research is based on a positivistic paradigm that demands precision, measurement, and scientific proof. This approach emphasizes objectivity, where researchers maintain neutrality with standardized procedures and instruments that have been tested for validity and reliability. The research results not only describe the sample but can also be generalized to a wider population. Social phenomena are analyzed through measurable cause-and-effect relationships, with concepts converted into calculable indicators. The data collection process utilizes nominal scales.

Second: Quantitative research stands out for its ability to test hypotheses, measure variables, and trace cause-and-effect relationships in a measurable way. This research is conducted using systematic procedures, utilizing numerical data and statistical analysis to produce objective conclusions. Hypotheses derived from theory are tested through various methods, such as experiments that control variables, surveys with questionnaires to reveal patterns, and ex post facto studies that examine events without direct manipulation. Each technique confirms the power of quantitative research in presenting empirical evidence, supporting the development of educational policy, and enriching the scientific and accountable understanding of social phenomena.

Third: Qualitative research focuses on a deep understanding of the meaning and processes behind social phenomena, based on interpretive and constructivist paradigms. This approach emphasizes context, subjective experience, and the active involvement of researchers in the research. Data is collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis to explore the real experiences of participants. The validity of the results is measured through credibility, which is the extent to which the findings reflect reality, reinforced by triangulation, member checks, and intensive involvement. In addition, transferability is important so that the results can be applied to similar situations, making qualitative research relevant to the development of educational policies and practices.

Fourth: Educational research can be conducted using various approaches depending on the objectives and nature of the problem. Quantitative research focuses on measurement, hypothesis testing, and statistical analysis to produce findings that can be generalized. In contrast, qualitative research emphasizes meaning, process, and context through techniques such as ethnography, phenomenology, case studies, or grounded theory. Mixed-methods combine the strengths of both to obtain a more comprehensive understanding. Data analysis also differs: quantitative research utilizes descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative research uses coding and thematic analysis. Understanding these paradigms and methods is important to ensure the validity, credibility, and relevance of educational management research.

The development of educational research requires a solid understanding of methodology so that research is not only descriptive, but also capable of making strategic contributions to educational policy and practice. The quantitative approach excels in testing hypotheses, measuring variables, and generalizing findings through statistical analysis. Meanwhile, qualitative research provides a deep understanding of meaning and social processes with high credibility through triangulation techniques and researcher involvement. Mixed methods combine the advantages of both to produce a comprehensive perspective. Mastery of paradigms, methods, and analysis techniques is key to improving the validity and relevance of research, so that the results are truly useful for the development of science and educational management.

This article is a review of Part 3 (Foundations of Educational Management Research Methodology) from the teaching materials for the Educational Management Research Methods course, taught by Prof. Dr. H. A Rusdiana, M.M. (https://eknows.uinsgd.ac.id/mod/assign/view.php?id=301948)

 (Sumber: CV Pribadi)