Using Action Research

According to Dana, action research “focuses on the concerns of practitioners (not outside researchers) and engages practitioners in the design, data collection, and interpretation of data around their question” (Dana 2009). With the constant changes in education, like curriculum, technological advances, and state standards, educators must be aware of the latest trends and current research findings. Through action research educators can take a more hands on approach in investigating their current issues. Teachers are “more likely to facilitate a change based on the knowledge they generate” (Dana 2009) versus just reading an article written by college professors who are not in classrooms on a regular basis. Educators use action research to improve the learning process and education of their students. Once a problem or issue is defined, data can be collected and analyzed to allow for positive changes to take place. These changes can then be shared with the entire staff or even the district leading to future staff development.  As stated in the Dana text, “a school system committed to improve student learning will provide principals professional development in which they participate as members of ongoing study groups analyzing instructional issues for their schools” (Dana 2009). Every school can benefit from action research in some way. I cannot wait to get back to school in August to begin working on my action research project involving parental involvement. I am hoping to start improving the quality of education we are providing for our kids.