Action Research

What is Action Research?

Let me start by saying what I think it is not. Understanding Action Research is not a "Library Project" that we are conducting to learn more about a topic. It is not "Problem-Solving" to discover what is wrong. It is not "Researching" a person or collecting all of the available information on a topic.

Action Research is... a reflective process
Action Research is... a inquiry process
Action Research is... a discussion process
Action Research is... working to improve strategies, techniques and skills.
Action Research is... doing things better.
Action Research is... changing to make a larger impact.

Action Research can be conducted inside and outside of the school environment. It can also be conducted by one or more people. It is always conducted by the person(s) more closely attached to the problem at hand. It is takes place because they know what the problem is but not the best way to address the issue. It is to search for the best possible practice to correct the problem. It does not deal with the theoretical but the concerns they can exhibit influence and change.

The process involves posing questions, gathering data, reflecting and decision making. The decisions change the school environment.
Four areas to consider for teacher and principals:
1) If you have identified a problem yourself you will be the best person to work on the issue.
2) You will be more effective when examing, assessing and changing your own work.
3) Collaborative work will help you and others.
4) Professional development will occur during collabortive efforts.