Like many of my collegial cohorts, I hadn't heard of Action Research until taking this current Master of Educational Administration course (and am I ever glad that I know of it now). I acknowledge that as a hopeful future educational administrator there will be limits to the experiences I will directly bring to the position. While experience in and of itself does not guarantee success, I know that experiential best practices can be achieved through the Action Research process.
I have learned that Action Research, a "process of a principal engaging in systematic, intentional study of his/her own administrative practice and taking action for change based on what he/she learns as a result of the inquiry" (Dana, 2009, p. 2) must be practiced. Action Research should be performed daily and is based upon the actions, issues/problems of the day. This is where the practitioner (principal) begins his/her analysis, data collection and investigative practices. I have also learned that this is where the "wondering" or contemplation stage begins. One cannot begin the collection and investigative practices without first wondering. A practitioner, after collecting, reviewing and discussing data from various research sources will then set out to implement changes, upgrades or improvements based upon final output and gleaning of information. The output is then shared with others.
Action Research is collaborative in nature which in turn lowers the invisible dividers or barriers between administration and other educators. While the administrator (practitioner) steers or guides the Action Research process, teachers and/or other administrators contribute to the process. Unlike traditional research where data completed by outsiders has been collected, Action Research is based upon identification and analysis of data collected by the campus/district team. Together they review the data and establish or implement changes. And, by incorporating blogging into the Action Research cycle the reflections, recommendations and comments (both positive and negative) of co-horts will bring added value to the entire process.
Dana, Nancy Fichtman. (2009). Leading with passion and knowledge: The principal as action Researcher. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.
Removing the barrier between teachers and administrators is so important in the process of improving student learning. I Agree that action research is an excellent way to identify real problems that are specific to the campus. I believe that this type of action research will engage more staff members and result in follow-through.
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