The Urgency of Research in Educational Management: Foundations of Evidence-Based Science and Policy

 By Taufiqur Rahman/Student of MPI 5D, Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training, UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung

Introduction: Global changes in education increasingly emphasize the importance of research as a primary instrument for addressing the challenges of the 21st century. The flow of digitalization, the demands of knowledge-age competencies, and international policies drive the need for research that is not only theoretical but also applicable. In the Indonesian context, the urgency of research is strongly felt when faced with disparities in education quality between regions, a low culture of research literacy among educators, and minimal use of data in strategic decision-making. Research in educational management should not be viewed as merely an academic formality, but must serve as a foundation for evidence-based policies and the continuous development of educational quality.

First, the meaning and essence of research in educational management emphasize that research is a systematic, logical, and empirical scientific activity. Research differs from ordinary observation because it uses clear methodological procedures, valid data, and is oriented towards applicable results. In the context of educational management, research plays a dual role: building theory and providing practical solutions to real-world problems, such as leadership, curriculum planning, or human resource management. Research enables more accurate decision-making because it is supported by data, not just intuition. This makes research a crucial foundation for connecting educational theory, policy, and practice.

Second, the function of research in educational management encompasses four main aspects. First, the theoretical function, which enriches knowledge and strengthens theories. Second, the practical function, which provides solutions to real-world problems in educational institutions. Third, the policy function, which serves as a basis for decision-making based on relevant data. Fourth, the academic function, which serves as a requirement for students' scientific papers and fosters a research tradition. With this comprehensive function, research bridges academic needs, field practice, and public policy. Without research, educational management risks becoming directionless, as decisions are made solely based on habits or assumptions.

Third, the advantage of research in educational management lies in its ability to present objective data, reduce bias, provide scientific evidence, and generate retestable solutions. Research makes policies more legitimate because it is based on scientific analysis. Furthermore, research can support educational innovations that are relevant to societal needs. For example, the effectiveness of a new curriculum or learning strategy can be empirically tested before being widely implemented. With these advantages, research not only contributes to the development of knowledge but also provides a solid foundation for educational policy and practice.

Fourth, besides research, there are other similar studies, such as program evaluations, literature reviews, case studies, and scientific essays. Evaluation studies emphasize assessing the effectiveness of a program, while literature reviews focus on analyzing theory and previous research. Non-research case studies typically describe real-world phenomena, while scientific essays emphasize argumentation. Although often considered similar to research, these studies differ in methodology and output. Research produces new, systematic, and retestable findings, while other studies serve more of a complementary and reflective function. Therefore, research must remain a central pillar in the development of educational management, with other studies playing a supporting role, broadening insights and strengthening analysis.

From the discussion above, it is clear that research is a strategic instrument in educational management. Research not only enriches theory but also solves practical problems, strengthens policies, and serves as an academic requirement. Its advantages lie in its objectivity, validity, and potential for replication, making it superior to other forms of study. Although there are studies such as evaluations, literature reviews, or scientific essays, research still holds a higher position because it produces new, accountable knowledge. By cultivating research, Indonesian educational management can be more adaptive, innovative, and competitive in the global era.

*)This article is a review of Part 2 Research in Educational Management from the Teaching Materials for the Management Research Methods Course, lecturer of the course, Prof. Dr. H.A Rusdiana, M.M.(*