Technological infrastructure support for research in education

The paper focuses on developments at IE, which is a relative newcomer not only to information technology but also to research in education. A number of assumptions need to be made regarding limitations and convictions about research as well as technology. A general paradigm for research in education is briefly discussed, followed by a discussion of four general stages (initiation, instrumentation, implementation and information) together with implications for technological infrastructure support.

Two major thrusts in promoting research in education, namely with the establishment of an Educational Research Unit at IE and an Educational Research Association, are then described. They are then followed by a brief account of IE' s recent efforts in setting up a Computer Services Centre as well as other computer facilities useful for research in education.

Some problems (pertaining to Time, Interest, Money and Expertise) and prospects (pertaining to Help, Optimism, Persistence and Enthusiasm) are touched upon next. Finally, an attempt is made to portray a possible future scenario, in which the setting up of a Council for Educational Research is advocated.