The How To? and What About? of Action Research

This week in action research I was given some worthwhile tips of how to undergo action research from some wonderful leaders. Below are some of them in no particular order.

• Let data drive your decisions.
• Compare your school to other schools that are similar in demographics.
• Teachers should present the information to the staff (their peers).
• Don't re-invent the wheel...use others research when possible.
• Choose an area of interest.
• Use search engines to find others research on your topic.
• Find what is practical for you.
• See wehre growth is coming from and where weakness still exists by using data.

Reference

Briseno, J., Ph.D., Lewis, K., Ph.D. Action Research. [Video]. Week 2 Interview. EDLD 5301 Research PEDG 5344, Lamar University, Beaumont, Texas. Retrieved online on July 22, 2010 from https://lamar.epiclms.net/.

I also learned of nine action research areas where stakeholders can find topics for action research which came from Leading with passion and knowledge: The principal as action researcher. Each of these areas ultimately leads students toward success.

1. Staff Development
2. Curriculum Development
3. Individual teacher(s)
4. Individual student(s)
5. School culture/community
6. Leadership
7. Management
8. School performance
9. Social Justice

Reference

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