Action Research

I learned that action research is more than just research.  It is an inquiry conducted by school officials, with the intent of making improvements to a school.  Principals that engage in action research make inquiries and seek out answers in their schools.  They then reflect on what they have learned and formulate a plan to make improvements. Action research is an ongoing repeating process.  The principle ask a question, makes observations,  reflects on new information, makes a plan, implements changes, then starts the process again.  When a change is implemented more questions may arise, so the principle must continue the process in order to make sure that the implemented changes are as effective as possible. School improvement is the main goal of action research, so administrators must make it a priority.  They need to set aside time from busy schedules that is focused on their action research.

Action research can involve a team of people working together to help define goals and implement changes.  Teams can consist of teachers and administrators working together in the same school or a group of administrators from different schools.  Administrators can also join blogging groups to connect with administrators from other schools in order to share their ideas, get feedback, and see what others are doing. 

I can use action research to me focus on important issues and find solutions during my internship.