An Analysis of the Differences Between Research and Development (R&D) and Design-Based Research (DBR) in Educational Research
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61166/amd.v4i2.117Keywords:
Comparative analysis, Design Based Research, educational research, literature review, Research and DevelopmentAbstract
Educational development research has continued to evolve in response to the increasing demand for innovative learning solutions capable of addressing the challenges of twenty-first-century education. Among the most widely adopted approaches are Research and Development (R&D) and Design-Based Research (DBR). Although both approaches focus on developing educational innovations, they are frequently used interchangeably without a comprehensive understanding of their methodological foundations, objectives, and distinctive characteristics. This study aims to analyze the similarities and differences between R&D and DBR in educational research to provide a clearer methodological reference for researchers in selecting the most appropriate approach according to their research objectives. This study employed a literature review using a comparative analysis approach by examining relevant scholarly articles and academic books, particularly publications from the last five years retrieved from reputable scientific databases. The analysis involved identifying, classifying, synthesizing, and interpreting the characteristics of both approaches based on research objectives, development focus, research procedures, practitioner involvement, validation processes, and research outcomes. The findings indicate that R&D primarily emphasizes the systematic development and validation of educational products, whereas DBR focuses on collaborative, iterative, and context-based design processes that generate both educational innovations and theoretical contributions. These findings are expected to provide practical guidance for researchers in selecting an appropriate development research method that aligns with the nature of the research problem, research objectives, and educational practice.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Hilmi Abdul Halim, Nina Agustina, Najwa Rahmadiani, Tedi Priatna, Bambang Bayu Nurfauji
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