Educational policy research is discussed as it concerns the utilization and programming of research. Following a brief review of the development of the educational research system, Part 1 discusses the following utilization concerns: the gap between research and policymakers; the relationship of organizational setting to utilization (comparing instrumental and conceptual use of information); the use of scientific knowledge and the policy-making work flow; and limitations to utilization. Part 2 describes research utilization and programming in the Netherlands: the national Institute for Educational Research (SVO) and the Dutch educational support structure; a short history of educational research programming; SVO's research programs for educational policy and practice; and programming steps (inventory of research needs, problem survey, development of SVO research program documents, research contracting, and execution and monitoring). Part 3 identifies several dilemmas and concerns, including: improvement of certain research skills; the relationship of policy research to the characteristics of the organization that will use the outcomes; and the need for international cooperation and exchange. Contains 9 references. (KM)