What is action research?

As life-long learners, educators are constantly looking for ways to improve themselves personally and professionally. Administrators use a process called administrative inquiry, or action research, to improve areas of concern on their campuses through reflection and peer collaboration.

Action research is a systematic process by which educational leaders, such as principals or district leadership teams, reflect and problem-solve issues at their school or within their district. They collaborate and review data that has been collected by individuals who work at the school or within the district (not outside researchers or educational scholars). The topic under scrutiny is typically one that is aligned with the goals and vision of the district or organization. Upon reflecting, they apply new strategies to improve the way the school or district is run. Action research can be applied to any campus and target any subject area.

Action research differs from traditional educational research in two ways. First, it requires continuous feedback; it is a cyclical, rather than a linear process. Second, the research is conducted by in-house educators instead of outside researchers. Action research takes the inquiry of educators to drive research.

There are many reasons for conducting action research. One of which is giving a voice to those who may not otherwise be heard. Principals’ daily calendars are full, and, as a result, principals become distanced from their teachers at times (and the needs of those teachers). Action research is a wonderful way for teachers to voice their praises or concerns regarding campus routines. Through campus surveys and other mediums of communication, collaboration for campus improvement can take place. Dana (2009) illustrated an example of an end-of-year survey that was distributed to the teachers at a particular school. I love the idea of allowing teachers to “share any random thoughts on” different issues on campus. I am familiar with this form of action research because my principal created something similar last May. She said she would read everyone's thoughts and make some improvements to our campus for the upcoming year.

Blogging is another form of action research. What better way to get feedback than to blog with colleagues? As mentioned earlier, reflection and feedback are crucial to the action research process. Sharing thoughts and possible solutions for campus concerns can be just a click away! Educational leaders can also use blogs to communicate with teachers or the PTO. I think it's important to keep communication open. However, this might become a platform for complaints if not done right.

Reference:

Dana, N.F. (2009). Leading with passion and knowledge: The principal as action researcher. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press. p. 17.