Translational research in education: A bridge between theory and educational practice

Abstract

Translational research (ITr) is integrated by four phases that intend to connect basic research (T1) with the benefits of its application (T4). ITr in education builds bridges of understanding among teachers, researchers and other professionals so that, based on the best scientific evidence and the advances of each field, educational proposals can be designed and evaluated that translate in actions of improvement in education. The purpose of this paper is to present a brief overview of translational educational research, its definition and implications for universities and society. Recently the number of educational institutions that decided to broaden their research methodologic horizons have increased (e.g. through evidence-based educational research or community-based participative research), to generate in their researchers and teachers the knowledge and skills needed to develop translational research in education.

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