Proposing an alternative direction for the development of research: a complementary perspective on Schoenfeld’s approach to generality

The purpose of this paper is to propose a theoretical framework that suggests directions for future research. While Schoenfeld’s three-axis heuristic framework is well known for this purpose, it primarily points toward increasing generality. Drawing on prior studies on the generalizability of empirical findings in educational research, this paper argues that an alternative research path is possible. Building on the distinction between prevalence and scope, it proposes two types of generality: the generality of a phenomenon within a specified scope and the generality of a theory. Correspondingly, it identifies two directions for research development: delimitation of the scope and generalization of a theory. Finally, the paper argues that research development based on this framework can be understood as progressive in the Lakatosian sense. While Schoenfeld’s framework suggests directions for individual studies, this framework guides competing research programmes by enabling both to progress through scope delimitation.