What is Action Research?

Action research is a collaborative, inquiry-based, systematic process that allows administrators to develop clearer understandings of their beliefs regarding education, their motivations during the decision making process, and their ability to carry out actions toward change. Unlike traditional school improvement models, action research is implemented by administrators within a school to address issues or problems that are relevent to the school itself. The administrator begins the process by making observations about the school and identifying areas that could use improvement. He/she then formulates questions addressing how his/her actions could make a positive impact on the school. Once the questions have been posed, data must be collected from appropriate resources using both qualitative and quantitative methods. In addition, the administrator further develops his knowledge by researching sources related to the targeted area of interest. Next, the data must be analyzed to develop a deeper understanding of the issue or problem. At this point, the administrator must take a step back and engage in reflection to gain insight into how he/she as a leader could best facilitate school improvement in this area. The next hurdle is to explore patterns and come up with a plan that addresses changes in practice that are necessary for improvement to occur. Finally, the plan must be shared with others and fully implemented by all staff members. As the plan is carried out, time must be allotted for further reflection to readdress or redefine the issue or problem. Although the action research process has a clear beginning, the process of carrying out action research creates a spiral effect that continually leads to further improvement and sustained change.
Action research can be used to address any issue that affects school performance and can be used on a number of different levels. Student behavior, test performance, retention of content material, teacher morale, professional development, and community involvement are just some examples of areas that can be addressed using action research. In addition, action research can be carried out within a classroom, a department, school-wide, or district wide. Due to the introspective nature of action research, it provides an excellent opportunity for all educators to learn more about their personal beliefs and how those beliefs impact the education of our students. It also provides a wonderful opportunity for engaging in collaborative professional development that will have a lasting positive impact on both the researchers and the targeted audience.