The research activities of the IUS are directed towards the investigation of interdependencies between the different levels comprising educational system, organisation, learning setting, and the individual. We differentiate between two research approaches: Projects which fit within the scope of the analytical-evaluative research focus tend to deal with the efficacy as well as the prerequisites and processes of existing education arrangements. They further examine the implementation of innovations at the levels of the individual, the organisation, the learning setting, and the system. The second branch of projects cooperates with the field of practice. This development-oriented research focuses on the examination process itself and allows the pursuit of changes and improvements in the day-to-day reality of instruction. It refers to the tradition of practice research (e.g. action research) at the IUS.

Moreover, the IUS develops science based and practice-oriented interventions for educational settings and examines their impacts upon the different levels of the educational system, e.g., learners, teachers, the learning environment, and the organisation. The IUS stands for a whole range of perspectives and a variety of methodological approaches that guarantees suitably targeted innovations in the school and teaching sector.

In the spirit of evidence based policy and practice, the IUS provides reliable, empirically sound information for use in the optimisation of school and instructional development processes. Here, the assessment by teaching staff and pupils of the benefits and learning potential of instruments for instructional and school development is afforded special significance.

Synergy and multiplier effects in the field of training and further education additionally intensify and reflect the transfer content of the research results obtained (refer to the section on Teaching & Counselling). The expansion and ongoing development of the infrastructure for continuing education is firmly underpinned by the findings from the analytical-evaluative research and practical research (e.g. action research) conducted by the IUS.