Reflection on Interviews for Action Research

Dr. Johnny Briseno was very cognizant of the value in analyzing data. In the video interview his reflections showed that many of his decisions used data for original analysis. He mentions the use of qualitative data when quantitative data does not provide a clear story. In picking up on his narrative of teacher collaboration to find solutions for student success there was an action research that could be identified. The action research could be worded like “How can the principal facilitate the process of teacher collaboration in analyzing quantitative and qualitative data to address the needs of the students that are considered at-risk?” In proposing an action research with these parameters the analysis of quantitative data would be analyzed to provide insight into the problem of the student with data that includes grades, discipline, and attendance information. When this type of information does not suffice to assist the student then qualitative data must be researched to find the causes such as problems that originate at the home. Some of the situations could be an unsafe environment or insufficient parental involvement.

Dr. Briseno did speak about the value of data and in keeping the data confidential when it pertains to students. The solution to have teachers collaborate with near grade level composition was a good solution to keep the information following and possible resolutions within the grasp of the staff. His suggestion was to continue to use resources at our disposal like the Internet to find solutions to some of our problems, like he said “there is no need to reinvent the wheel.”

Dr. Timothy Chargois is the Director of Research for Planning and Development at Beaumont I.S.D. The research that is done at the district or campus level goes through his office. Dr. Chargois talks about using software to make predictions that impact instruction. He comments on one action research that has gone through his office as “What are teachers doing that show their ethical responsibilities towards students and towards student achievement?” The study could focus on the focus on what the teacher is doing to assure student preparation and success. Questions could be asked of the teachers’ attendance and timeliness in the classroom, proactively being informed of their student matters, conducting class with a caring attitude, updating instructional practices, and collaborating and cooperating with colleagues to ensure student success. Dr. Chargois make a comment on the need for teachers to keep abreast of methodologies in pedagogy and curriculum by saying “You never stop growing, if you are green you are growing, and if you are brown you are dying.”

Dr. Chargois pinpoints that teachers need to think outside the box by doing action research. The teachers can do localized research in their classroom qualitative and quantitative data to understand student problems. A recommendation to the use of Internet based survey tools to retrieve data for analysis is stated.

In reflecting on the video interview, I gained a good understanding of the value of using quantitative and qualitative data to address both teachers and students in an action research. I understand that the confidentiality of data, especially when it pertains student information. The speakers talked about the utilization of resources on the Internet such as research based scenarios and Survey Monkey to provide quantitative data results to improve instruction and the end result of student achievement.