Design-Based Implementation Research to Support Inquiry Learning

Abstract

This chapter presents an overview of an approach to research called Design-Based Implementation Research (DBIR), which brings a collaborative, pragmatic, and interventionist approach to studying and supporting the implementation of inquiry learning environments. Four common principles are emphasized: (1) a focus on persistent problems of practice to address concrete goals for improvement from multiple stakeholders’ perspectives; (2) a commitment to building and testing innovations through iterative, collaborative design; (3) a concern with developing theory and knowledge related to both classroom learning and implementation through systemic inquiry; and (4) a concern with developing capacity for sustaining change in systems. An example illustrates how a DBIR project can be planned and implemented within a research-practice partnership. The chapter also highlights dilemmas of DBIR related to how to organize and sustain the complex and ambitious work involved.