This paper assesses the value of research, not on its methodology type but on its goal and accomplishments. It outlines an idea for developing a knowledge base capable of informing teacher education program planning and other educational policy decisions. Studies are described that advance knowledge about causal relationships between classroom processes and student outcomes, especially studies that document and describe desirable practices. The paper is divided into the following sections: (1) "Introduction"; (2) "Factors that Contribute to the Value of Research Studies"; (3) "Quantitative Methods"; (4) "Qualitative Methods"; (5) "Shift in Focus from Methods to Questions"; and (6) "Needed Research in Social Studies." (EH)