This 90-minute workshop is targeted at (beginning) STEM education researchers who would like to understand when and how to use design research methodology. It is aimed at both students and researchers without prior knowledge of design research, as well as researchers who are in the midst of their first study and are wondering whether this methodology fits their work.

Design research has become a widely used approach in STEM education. Its central aim is to build theoretical understanding of why and how learning happens, using the iterative development and testing of classroom interventions, curricula, or learning activities as the means to that end. At the same time, many beginning researchers find it difficult to know when design research is the right choice, how it differs from other methodologies such as experiments or action research, and how to actually get started with it.

During this workshop, you will investigate the relationship between research questions and the methodology used in your study. We will discuss what design research is and what distinguishes it from other approaches, look at example classroom situations involving design research, and work through the core ideas using your own research question or topic. We will also discuss the challenges beginning researchers commonly face when using design research, and how these can be addressed.

Please note that the workshop will be held in English.

No prior experience with design research is necessary.

To make the workshop as useful as possible, I ask you to send me, in advance, a short description (no more than half an A4 page) of the research question, topic, existing project, or early idea you would like to work with during the session. This description will be used to prepare examples and small-group activities that connect directly to the kind of research questions in the room, so please make sure to send it before the workshop. If you have specific questions you would like answered during the session, please feel free to include those as well.

Please send your description by: Monday/ September 14, 2026

To: 12thsea-dr@unj.ac.id (e-mail)

I look forward to welcoming you and to a productive session together.