Action Research

Action research is a type of professional development tool that administrators use to bring about positive change in their practices and improve their campus’ performance. They perform systematic studies about their person practices while analyzing campus and student data that come about as a result of their practices. They study pertinent literature and collaborate with other administrators to formulate an action plan that will bring about positive change. There are four phases involved in the action research process. The first phase is defining an issue to study. This is where the participants develop inquiry questions (I wonder questions) and reflections. The second phase is the review of professional literature. This is the phase most like the traditional education research. Phase three is where educators take action. They will combine data analyzed and information reviewed to develop an action plan. Phase four involves the use and sharing the results of the plan of action. Even though this was my first time hearing the term "Action Research", I have already participated in the process on several occasions. I am a member of my campus' leadership design team and at my previous campus, I was grade level chairperson. Both of these groups gave me experience in action research. Now I will also gain more experience through my graduate studies in education technology.