Action Research / Inquiry

I have just started my second Grad class; EDLD 5301 Research for Teachers. This class is over the topic of Action Research. At first glance, the word Research made my stomach turn. This was illustrated in one of our textbooks (Dana, 2009):

The images that the word research conjures up come mostly from the
process-product paradigm and include a “controlled setting,” “an
experiment with control and treatment groups,” “an objective scientist
removed from the subjects of study so as not to contaminate findings,”
“long hours in the library,” and “crunching numbers.”

The author then goes on to describe why the word inquiry is preferred. The process of action research/inquiry is introspective. The practitioner analyzes what is working for him and what is not. Then he develops a plan to address his needs. After implementing his plan, the practitioner, again, analyzes what is working and what is not and repeats this cyclical process. Action research is therefore a living process and allows for a practitioner to continually improve and grow. The concept can be applied at all levels and can benefit all participants. The process was illustrated, in one of the other textbooks, through the example of a doctor and patient. The a patient is having a problem, they set an appointment with their doctor. The doctor sees the patient and listens to them describe the symptoms. He then determines what tests and lab work should be done to pinpoint the root problem. Once the doctor has determined the problem, he prescribes a treatment plan. The patient goes home and follows the treatment plan and then returns to the doctor to be re-evaluated. If the problem is gone, the treatment plan was a success. If the problem still exists, or a new problem has arisen, the doctor starts the process over to modify or create a new treatment plan. This same type of process can be used to analyze and correct problems in education.

In my school, there are several possibilities to utilize action research. I would like help improve the technology skills of my fellow teachers. I first need to analyze what is holding them back and develop a plan to assist them. I would also like to help my students improve their "number sense" skills. As a school, we need more parent involvement. We could utilize action research to design and implement a plan to increase parent involvement.





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