Review

Understanding Design-Based Research: Conceptual Distinctions Among Research Types Used Synonymously

Volume: 59 Number: 2 August 6, 2026
TR EN

Understanding Design-Based Research: Conceptual Distinctions Among Research Types Used Synonymously

Abstract

Design-based research (DBR) is an approach in which theory, practice, and design processes support one another and aim to offer innovative solutions in educational settings. These studies contribute to the improvement of the educational process and the development of practical solutions. DBR does not only test existing theories, but also guides educational change by trying out innovations in authentic learning environments and generating theoretical and practical knowledge from these experiences.In the literature, design-based research is often used synonymously with research types such as design experiment, development research, developmental research, action research, and formative research. Within this scope, the present study defines design-based research, highlights its differences from other research types, and elaborates on its iterative nature and process. Furthermore, the application of DBR in technology-enhanced learning environments and its contribution to educational transformation are also discussed. Finally, the study offers suggestions for the effective implementation of DBR, which is becoming increasingly widespread. Moreover, the importance of fostering collaboration between researchers and practitioners, ensuring systematic documentation of the process, and reporting findings in a transparent, accurate, reliable, and detailed manner is strongly emphasized.

Keywords

Ethical Statement

This study does not involve any experimental procedures on human or animal subjects. Therefore, ethical approval was not required.

References

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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Specialist Studies in Education (Other)

Journal Section

Review

Publication Date

August 6, 2026

Submission Date

September 8, 2025

Acceptance Date

March 22, 2026

Published in Issue

Year 2026 Volume: 59 Number: 2

APA
Topçu, T., İnce, E., & Doğan, D. (2026). Understanding Design-Based Research: Conceptual Distinctions Among Research Types Used Synonymously. Ankara University Journal of Faculty of Educational Sciences (JFES), 59(2), 836-899. https://doi.org/10.30964/auebfd.1780283
AMA
1.Topçu T, İnce E, Doğan D. Understanding Design-Based Research: Conceptual Distinctions Among Research Types Used Synonymously. JFES. 2026;59(2):836-899. doi:10.30964/auebfd.1780283
Chicago
Topçu, Tuba, Ensar İnce, and Dilek Doğan. 2026. “Understanding Design-Based Research: Conceptual Distinctions Among Research Types Used Synonymously”. Ankara University Journal of Faculty of Educational Sciences (JFES) 59 (2): 836-99. https://doi.org/10.30964/auebfd.1780283.
EndNote
Topçu T, İnce E, Doğan D (August 1, 2026) Understanding Design-Based Research: Conceptual Distinctions Among Research Types Used Synonymously. Ankara University Journal of Faculty of Educational Sciences (JFES) 59 2 836–899.
IEEE
[1]T. Topçu, E. İnce, and D. Doğan, “Understanding Design-Based Research: Conceptual Distinctions Among Research Types Used Synonymously”, JFES, vol. 59, no. 2, pp. 836–899, Aug. 2026, doi: 10.30964/auebfd.1780283.
ISNAD
Topçu, Tuba - İnce, Ensar - Doğan, Dilek. “Understanding Design-Based Research: Conceptual Distinctions Among Research Types Used Synonymously”. Ankara University Journal of Faculty of Educational Sciences (JFES) 59/2 (August 1, 2026): 836-899. https://doi.org/10.30964/auebfd.1780283.
JAMA
1.Topçu T, İnce E, Doğan D. Understanding Design-Based Research: Conceptual Distinctions Among Research Types Used Synonymously. JFES. 2026;59:836–899.
MLA
Topçu, Tuba, et al. “Understanding Design-Based Research: Conceptual Distinctions Among Research Types Used Synonymously”. Ankara University Journal of Faculty of Educational Sciences (JFES), vol. 59, no. 2, Aug. 2026, pp. 836-99, doi:10.30964/auebfd.1780283.
Vancouver
1.Tuba Topçu, Ensar İnce, Dilek Doğan. Understanding Design-Based Research: Conceptual Distinctions Among Research Types Used Synonymously. JFES. 2026 Aug. 1;59(2):836-99. doi:10.30964/auebfd.1780283

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