Action Research Discoveries

Action research is one of the most comprehensive and informative ways to initiate and make change within a school. Often times implementing new programs or ideas in a school can be viewed as a quick fix or a way to make a school “look good.” However, implementing effective change is not that simple and should not be taken lightly. This is why action research is so important and beneficial. You are taking a problem and researching why it is there and the best method for improvement. 

During action research you are looking at the issue quantitatively, through data, and qualitatively through interviews and discussion with staff, parents, students etc. Only through this data analysis are you making a decision. Allowing you to view multiple facets of the issue and multiple ways to improve. This way you have a in depth look at the root of an issue and know that the program or idea you are implementing has the highest chance of success. This differs from traditional educational research in that before issues were looked at more linearly, along with only collecting qualitative data.

Action research does not stop here. It requires follow up and more data collection. Follow up ensures your plan is being implemented correctly and the results are as anticipated. Administrators must realize that this is an in depth process that yields results over time and requires commitment, effort, and data analysis. Follow up allows for proper reflection. It is to me one one the most crucial components of action research. Without proper reflection, you are never analyzing the effectiveness of your inquiry solution or how it could have been better. Reflection not only allows you to see areas that require improvement, but also areas that were effective.