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.