Action Research Description and Use

Action research involves hands-on, inquisitive, reflective people. I see it as a trial-and-error type of research. It's taking an idea, asking questions about the process, the steps, the goals, etc., and then setting it all in motion. The data is gathered from the process, and then a reflection takes place. Sharing can take place with a group of people to discuss what works, what doesn't work, how to change it, more questions that have come up, and commendations for jobs well done. These are steps that seem to be missing in the practicum work done at many teacher preparatory colleges and universities.  As Nancy Fitchman-Dana (2009) remarks, "Simply stated, practitioner inquiry is defined as systematic, intentional study of one’s own professional practice. Inquiring professionals seek out change by reflecting on their practice. (p. 9)" The action portion comes from the conversations, the asking of questions, seeking out answers through practice, and then reflecting. I feel the reflection portion is vital. Many times I would try something out in the classroom, and then continue on with my required lessons. When I wanted to try the process again, I would forget pieces. If I had written them down in a sort of journal, I would've been able to know exactly what I had done.

I know that I can use action research within my school building. Even though I am out of the classroom and a testing coordinator, I still have the ability to influence the teachers and students on my staff. I meet with the teachers to train them, and since the first semester is usually slower for me, I can establish a PLC (Professional Learning Community). I will gather a group of teachers who are willing to find ways to improve our at-risk students. We will discuss ways in which we can improve our scores on the state TAKS tests, in particular Reading scores with our LEP students (Limited English Proficiency). Then we will practice different strategies learned through traditional research of reading articles, identifying proven strategies that have worked for others, and also finding new ways that we would like to experiment. We will use data from assessments, practices, observations, and activities to drive our future decisions.

References:

Dana, N. F. (2009). Leading with passion and knowledge: The principal as action researcher. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.