EDLD 5301 Course Reflection

In EDLD 5301 Research for Teachers, I was able to complete a research action plan.  I know that as my research progresses that my plan may need to evolve, but this class helped me to start with a well organized plan.

Through the use of the discussion boards and blogs, I was able to identify problems in my initial plan and make appropriate changes. 

I learned that action research is not the same as typical research.  Action research is more of an inquiry that seeks to make changes to provide improvement.  It is research which has a purpose.  Approaching the research with this definition in mind helped me to understand that my research will not be pointless.  My plan addresses clear goals that can be very helpful to my school. 

The process of action research was presented in a clear, easy to follow manner.  I now understand that any step in the process can lead back to the beginning or to a new inquiry.  As the steps are followed new information can be found that calls for changes to the original plan.  I know that some problems may arise, and now I am fully confident that I will be able to reevaluate my research and make changes to my plan as necessary.

I learned of several tools that I can use to help sustain any improvements that are made in my school.  Each tool has its own benefits.  The CARE model makes sure to include processes and projects that are working.  This helps the school keep on doing what it is doing well, when trying to solve issues in areas that need improvement.  Force field analysis is useful to help identify driving and resisting forces of a change.  This is useful when trying to determine if a change is viable.  The Delphi Method is a useful way to get a group to come to a consensus without excess meetings.  This method helps everyone to understand what is going on and does not take up too much of their time.  This is very useful for people with busy schedules that need to make informed decisions. (Harris, p 94-97)

The five quality indicators will be very useful to me in writing and presenting my research findings.  These indicators will help me to make sure my research will be relevant to others and understood by my target audience. (Dana, p. 179-184)  I will use the indicators to make sure others understand the context, my wonderings are clearly articulated and easily understood, I use enough data sources with detailed explanations of my collection process, I present my findings in a clear way, with all relevant details and support, and I implement or suggest appropriate changes based on my findings.

As I continue to work on my action research, I will post information on what I do and discover on my blog.  I will, also, continue to follow the blogs of several classmates, so I can give them helpful feedback on their projects and possibly gain some insights to help with my own project.

References

Dana, N. F. (2009). Leading with Passion and Knowledge: The Principal as Action Researcher.  Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.

Harris, S., Edmonson, S., & Combs, J. (2009). Examining What We Do to Improve Our Schools: 8 Steps From Analysis to Action. Larchmont, N.Y.: Eye on Education.