Constructing an optimal research design for educational research

—considerations and issues—

Abstract

Educational researchers may struggle with the process of transforming their research into research papers. To reduce the barriers to educational research, in this paper, quantitative educational research designs are discussed using examples from the author’s institution. First, the similarities and differences between general clinical research and educational research are discussed in terms of the relationship between the population and the sample. PECO (PICO), a useful framework for clarifying research questions, is introduced and discussed in relation to some of the challenges of developing research designs for educational research. Second, examples of educational research conducted at the author’s institution are presented, including the research design frameworks, difficulties encountered, and points of development. Finally, specific issues related to educational research conducted at the author’s institution are discussed. This paper aims to benefit the many researchers involved in pharmaceutical education.