Fundamental research generates new knowledge and theories about education without immediate application. Applied research uses such knowledge to solve specific educational problems or improve practices.

Muhammad Amjad Bashir that's right, but more definitely, this distinction represents the dychotomy of previous times, when fundamental and applied researches were separated as different object-oriented processes (ideas and action-oriented, may be said). But, in fact, when today we have a universal AI-medium, where substantial and operational questions may queue in all possible combinations and correlations, be uni- or multilateral etc., what in fact may differ fundamental and applied studies?

Fundamental research aims to expand theoretical knowledge without an immediate practical application. In modern education, it explores underlying principles, cognitive processes, and pedagogical theories that shape learning.

Applied research, on the other hand, uses these principles to address real-world problems—such as improving teaching strategies, integrating technology in classrooms, or enhancing student performance.

In short: fundamental research asks “why?”, while applied research asks “how?”. The first builds the conceptual framework; the second tests and implements it in practice.

Dr. Adrian Leonard Mociulschi