Editorial: Understanding the Value of Pilot Studies in Educational Research

Pilot studies play a crucial role in strengthening doctoral research, yet limited detailed discussion has been carried out on how to effectively design, conduct and reflect on them. This gap potentially leads to incorrect understanding or misunderstanding of their purposes and undermines their value to enhance research quality. This special issue brings together reflections on pilot studies from seven doctoral students in education, offering rich insights into their practical, methodological, and personal benefits and challenges. Complemented by perspectives from experienced researchers at the School of Education, these contributions highlight that research is not solely about results but also about the process. Importantly, this process begins well before the main study commences, with pilot studies serving as a foundational step in shaping rigorous and reflective doctoral research.