What I've learned about Action Research

I’ve learned that action research is principals and teachers examine their own practice systematically and carefully, using the research techniques.  Action research is the idea where teachers will begin posing questions, collecting data, reflections and deciding a course of action.  Action research is also a powerful professional development tool.  The sharing of ideas and finding with others assist in the professional growth.  Action research is not a library project where you seek more information about a particular topic to gain more knowledge in that area.  Action research is done for the people by the people.  Action research involves people working to improve skills, and how we can change our instruction to improve our students.

Action research differs from traditional educational research because it is done by the individuals inside the school.  Action research differs from traditional educational research in that it is inquiry performed by “practitioners”, often by a principal or leadership team on the inside involved in the operation of the school and holding a consigned interest in the improvement of the school. Traditional educational research is performed by outsiders, professional researchers or scholars, using scientific methods typically under controlled conditions. Traditional research seeks to answer questions and determine courses of action applicable in a general setting or for a general audience, whereas action research concentrates on answering questions and determining a course of action to improve a particular school or the performance of a particular group.

Action research is beneficial in so many ways.  It gives educators an opportunity to know more.  We as teachers are always looking for opportunities to expand our existing knowledge.  Action research focuses on school issues that are happening on our campus and would be assisting in our school improvement.  Action research also improves communication, extends the opportunity to reflect, and caters to the collegial interaction.