Science and Education Publishing American Journal of Educational Research 2327-6150 3 3 2015 03 02 The Philosophical Foundations of Educational Research: a Beginner's Guide 312 317 EN Hussein Assalahi School of Education, TESOL, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK EDUCATION20153310 10.12691/education-3-3-10 2015 01 18 2015 02 20 2015 03 02 This paper aims to provide a concise introduction about the philosophical underpinnings of educational research. Whilst the philosophies of educational research have been extensively researched, a concise guide is hoped to uncover research underpinnings for beginners' postgraduate research students. It overviews the philosophies, paradigms, basic terminologies and related methodologies of educational research. Moreover, the paper provides insights into how researchers' philosophical stance can inform their research undertaking and transform the educational landscape.