Action Research

How is Action Research Defined?

Action research is a form of investigation designed for use by teachers to attempt to solve problems and improve professional practices in their own classrooms. It involves systematic observations and data collection which can be then used by the practitioner-researcher in reflection, decision-making and the development of more effective classroom strategies.

- Parsons and Brown (2002)

Action Research is a fancy way of saying let's study what's happening at our school and decide how to make it a better place.

- Emily Calhoun (1994)

Action research is a natural part of teaching. Teachers are continually observing students, collecting data and changing practices to improve student learning and the classroom and school environment. Action research provides a framework that guides the energies of teachers toward a better understanding of why, when, and how students become better learners. - A. Christine Miller (2007)

Five Phases of Action Research

1. Selecting an area or focus

Identifying an area of interest

Focus on students

Look at both immediate and cumulative effects

2. Collecting data

Collect existing archival data

Use additional multiple data sources

Collect data regularly

Promote collective ownership of data

Monitor data collection

3. Organizing data

Count instances, events, and artifacts

Display data in tables and charts

Arrange data by classroom, grade level, and school

Organize for analysis

4. Analyzing and interpreting data

Analyze and question the data as a professional collective

Decide what can be celebrated and what needs attention

Determine priority area(s) for action

4.5 Studying the professional literature

Identify professional literature that relates to or matches the interest

Gather research reports, research syntheses, articles, videotapes, etc.

Analyze and interpret these materials for understanding and action

Determine the most promising actions

5. Taking action

Combine data analysis...