What are the best methods and tools for conducting educational research with marginalized groups?

1 Culturally responsive research

One of the key principles of equity and inclusion in educational research is to adopt a culturally responsive approach. This means that you respect and value the cultural backgrounds, identities, and perspectives of the participants and communities you work with. You also acknowledge the power dynamics and historical contexts that shape their experiences and needs. To do this, you need to involve them in the design, implementation, and dissemination of your research, and use methods and tools that are appropriate and relevant for them.

3 Qualitative data collection

Another method that can support equity and inclusion in educational research is qualitative data collection. Qualitative data collection involves gathering rich and detailed information from the participants through methods such as interviews, focus groups, observations, or document analysis. Qualitative data collection allows you to explore the participants' lived experiences, stories, opinions, and emotions in depth. It also enables you to capture the diversity and complexity of their realities and contexts.

5 Mixed methods research

Sometimes, you may want to combine qualitative and quantitative methods in your educational research. This is called mixed methods research, and it can offer you a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of your research topic. Mixed methods research can help you address different types of research questions, validate or complement your findings, and enhance the credibility and generalizability of your research. However, mixed methods research also requires careful planning, integration, and justification of the methods and tools you use.

6 Dissemination and impact

The final step of your educational research is to disseminate and communicate your findings and implications to different audiences and stakeholders. This is an important way to ensure that your research has an impact and contributes to equity and inclusion in education. You can use various tools and platforms to disseminate your research, such as academic journals, conferences, reports, blogs, podcasts, or social media. However, you should also consider the accessibility, relevance, and usefulness of your dissemination strategies for the participants and communities you work with, and involve them in the dissemination process as much as possible.