GROWING IMPORTANCE OF ACADEMIC RESEARCH IN EDUCATION

Abstract

This paper builds a case to draw attention to the growing importance of academic research in education. While research in the West has received its due and is well funded and integrated into the curriculum, in India, high quality of academic research is limited to and produced by only the top 10-15 institutes in each field. But the growing importance of Academic research cannot be denied. Research adds value to the knowledge base not only of the learner but the field of knowledge itself. Whether it is about personal development or career development, well conducted, thorough research always brings crucial changes in the way we perceive something and contributes towards problem solving, trouble shooting and decision making. The exploratory study conducted showed that Academic Research is important for many reasons but primarily because-

• It facilitates learning and deeper understanding of the learner.
• It highlights several questions that may arise in the mind while analyzing the situation and subject area.
• It helps in the growth of business by addressing key issues.
• It encourages the personal growth of students, learners and academicians.
• It adds to the subject area in which research is conducted and contributes towards greater understanding in that area.

It is imperative that educational institutions and centers for research in India upgrade the level of research being conducted and focus upon producing high quality of that is valid, reliable and can be verified.