Action Research Reflection

Action research is a very positive and powerful tool in many areas especially school improvement. I have learned that action research/administrator inquiry is an intentional and methodical way of an administrator self-reflecting and being a change agent for school improvement based on the information that is gathered from the inquiry process. Action research is different than the traditional educational research models in that the agents of change and information is done from within rather than from the outside as is consistent with the traditional method. In engaging in action research the administrative team in charge will shift gears from being reactive to more of a proactive approach to dealing with issues that arise in the school. This will empower them and give them a sense of ownership in the knowledge their generated towards the possibility for school improvement. Administrators must make time and be involved in inquiry. This is in their best interest for professional growth and will be build capacity for them and their school.

Action research has many benefits. Some of the benefits are obvious like collaboration with peers and reflection of best practices. Other benefits are actually taking to the time to be involved in the inquiry process that will affect the school for improvement.

I learned that the reflection component of action research is always active to continue sustained school improvement. The steps in action research include initial inquiry, planning, and action then lead to evaluation which in itself is reflection and continued fine tuning of situation.

In conclusion I will mention that the values of action research will not come on deaf ears. There are areas that action research is ripe for in our school district. Consider the relationship with technology integration and improved student scores, parental involvement and increased student performance, and facilities design and improved student scores.

References:

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