Learning About Action Research

Action research is an essential skill administrators or teachers should utilize to make improvements in a learning organization. Action research improves teaching and learning. It allows for administrators and teachers to reflect on his or her own practices and analyze how these practices are impacting student learning. Action research ensures that appropriate and effective curriculum is implemented on a daily basis. Action research first begins by identifying a problem. A plan is developed, data is collected and analyzed, and an evaluation or reflection of the process is completed. Action research requires time and support from all members of the learning organization. Action research requires professionals to collaborate with others to systematically study practices and seek to make changes. As members of an organization engage in the inquiry process, they are gaining insights and understanding of themselves as educators ,as well as knowledge on better ways to implement best teaching practices. Action research also provides an opportunity to provide effective professional development, which contributes to making positive changes within the learning organization. Staff and administrators are in control of the knowledge created and delivered to all members of the organization. The focus is placed on engaging in inquiry to ensure all teachers and students are successful.

As a leader in my school, I will utilize action research to develop a plan to improve vocabulary instruction across all grade levels. Collaborating with other teachers on my campus to study how we can improve our teaching practices will contribute to increased academic achievement for all students.