Educational researchers are increasingly using design as a means of advancing their
understanding. Historically design in educational researchas served as a way to implement
theories for testing. The emerging design research paradigm treats design as
a strategy for developing and refining theories. In this article, I discuss the lessons that
can be learned from design. Starting from a model that characterizes designs in terms
of problem analyses, design solutions, and design processes, I describe 3 types of theories
that can be developed through design research: domain theories, design frameworks,
and design methodologies. I present examples from a design research program
investigating software supports for reflective inquiry. I argue for design research as
form of educational research because (a) design offers opportunities to learn unique
lessons, (b) design research yields practical lessons that can be directly applied, and
(c) design research engages researchers in the direct improvement of educational
practice.