Enhancing and Scaling-up Design-based Research:

This paper identifies ways in which conceptual, methodological and technical developments in e-research can contribute to solutions of key questions in learning science research and, in particular, design-based research (DBR). The paper focuses on DBR issues in three major areas: methodology, research process, and dissemination. By mapping DBR issues to the conceptual and technological features of e-research, and illustrating those features with concrete examples from a range of research domains, the paper demonstrates how e-research approaches and tools could enhance present DBR practices as well as open avenues for new research questions and new ways of doing research. It concludes by discussing potential challenges and outlining some critical elements for the uptake of e-research in learning science.