In the Week 2 Assignment - Background and Real Life Action Research Examples, I learned their are many topics that can be researched and it needs to be appropriate for all involved.  I learned that the topic being researched needs to be related somehow to the researcher so they can take ownership in it.  It is more likely that the research will be implemented if it is important to them.  I also learned that reflection is important skill for leaders and even all educators.  It is very important for everybody to reflect on their past year or years to see if they could have done something different to produce more success.  

How leaders might use blogs?

Educational leaders could use blogs in a variety of ways in order to keep the campus informed of changes, events, and progress.  A superintendent could create a district blog accessible to all staff discussing district issues or changes, emergency information, school board minutes, and important dates.  A principal could use a blog to eliminate the number of emails sent or faculty meetings held.  They could post to a blog critical information daily as well as informing teachers of campus issues and important events.

What is Action Research?

ACTION RESEARCH

Action Research is a tool used by educators that allows them to research and analyze a relevant issue facing educators on their campus or district.  It is based on inquiry conducted by those taking the action.  The educators collaborate on the issue by selecting a focus, identifying questions, collecting and analyzing data, and then taking action to find a possible solution and resolve the problem.  Action research has many benefits.  It gives the ability of the stakeholders to be involved in the process.  When the stakeholders are involved then a more suitable solution and effective implementation is more likely to take place.
As a campus leader I would use action research to help solve campus issues such as equality in discipline, student attendance and tardies, and the schedule change process.  The faculty as a whole could also collaborate on problems they think need to be addressed.  By creating teams to fulfill the action research plan in these areas, it will give each campus member a sense of leadership and create a collaborative environment among the staff.  Using the action research plan is not only beneficial to help solve campus issues but it can also help in developing teacher/leader rapport.  I plan on visiting with my principal to find an issue at our campus that would benefit from the action research process.