What Is Action Research?
Action research is research then action. It has many varied names such as action inquiry, teacher action research, action research, and practioner inquiry to name a few. Action research, though, has several characteristics three of which are collaborative, action, and research. In education, it is a process whereby principals and or teachers engage in systematic, intentional study of their practice and take action making changes based on what they learn from their research (Dana, N. F., 2009). Action research is not professional development delivered to you from outsiders and after you have received it you are done. It is a cyclical process of professional development. Issues and problems related to topics like student achievement present themselves continually. The cycle begins: Phase 1 – Define an issue to study, Phase 2 – Review of professional literature, Phase 3 - Take action, Phase 4 –Use and share results., and then the cycle begins again (Ringler,M., 2007). There are many benefits of this type of research. It is not usually done individually. It is a collaboration of stakeholders concerned about the inquiry or topic. Action research also promotes collegial relationships and combats feelings of isolation. Action research is interactive professional development that stakeholders research and design which facilitates engagement and empowerment.
I have participated in this process in the past but did not know it. In my neighborhood we developed a traffic plan to slow down traffic. We went through all of the phases. We invited neighbors, brainstormed problem areas, researched, developed a plan, gained consensus, and then implemented the plan; a few years have passed and we are now beginning the cycle again.
References
Dana, N. F. (2009). Leading with passion and knowledge. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.
Ringler,M. (2007). Action research an effective instrumental leadership skill for future public school leaders. Journal of Scholarship & Practice, 4(1), 27-37.
How Can Educational Leaders Use Blogs In Their Daily Practice?
The use of blogs by education leaders necessitates knowledge and understanding of the leadership position. It also takes reflection and creativity. Blogs are a Web 2.0 tool that can be used to disseminate information to all stakeholders. Leaders can use blogs in action research as a collaborative tool and a tool for reflecting on their practice. Leaders can use blogs to publish their thoughts and aggregate the thoughts of other department leaders to develop an interactive school website. With some imagination, the use of blogs for administrators is unlimited.
Hey James!
ReplyDeleteI like your comments on action research especially when you mentioned that you have been a part of the process without knowing what it was called. That is great to come to a realization like that knowing that you are familiar with the process.
James,
ReplyDeleteI like your example and description of action research that you have been involved in. I think that most people can say they have been involved in some type of action research when they really take a minute and think about it. I know as a teacher that I am constantly doing action research in order to improve my classes and as a business person I conduct action research in order to stay competitive and offer my customers the most cutting edge option available.