Action Research

Through this course I have started to understand the concept of action research. Action research involves stepping back and taking a hard look at some practice used and decisions made. After evaluating these practices and decisions an action is formulated in order to bring about change and then implemented. Action research is cyclical, so once the change is implemented a practitioner can re-evaluate and institute change as needed.

A major component of action research is reflection. This is simply taking the time to review a previous action. With all of the demands on an administrator it is very difficult to set aside time to actively reflect on actions and decisions. In order to practice action research it is critical and beneficial to find time to do so. It is beneficial because it allows principals to become less isolated, to become role models, and to grow professionally. (11-13) Action research is the key to bringing about positive and relevant change in today’s school system. It uses inside players with hands on experience and looks at specific problems that need to be addressed.  This allows for tailor-made solutions to specific problems that plague modern schools.

Fichman, Nancy Dana (2009).

Researcher. Leading with passion and knowledge: The principal as actionThousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.