The Institute undertakes extensive research and publishes literature that emphasis on the philosophy and sociology of education, post-colonial studies and possibilities of universal equity-based education, secularism, scientific and humanistic education, caste and minority studies, educational planning and management, theories of underdevelopment, cultural theory and education, policy-forms and excellence in education.
Being an ICSSR affiliated institute, the IIE has so far conducted several research projects funded by national and international organizations viz, UNESCO, FORD Foundation, Government of India and the, Planning Commission.
Apart from the above research initiatives, the Institute lays significant attention on teaching to nurture and develop social scientists that are able to approach the discipline of education from an interdisciplinary perspective. This is being carried out by two vigorous academic programmes; M.Phil. and Ph.D. in Education (Interdisciplinary). Another important contribution is extension activities wherein need-based capacity building programmes are conducted for stakeholders functioning in tribal, rural urban communities are conducted through-out the year. Promoting Primary and Elementary Education (PROPEL) project of the Indian Institute of Education has received International acclaim and an UNESCO award in 1993 for developing a community-managed basic education model relevant for rural children, particularly girls in developing countries.