Why Action Research?

There are many benefits of conducting action research which can be seen through the examples given. The first benefit of action research is that focus driven on school related issues and problems that directly impact the lived of educators. Action research also adds some personally researched validity to many new practices and theories versus taking the latest released best practice and running with it with no regard to if it is actually improving student or teacher performance. Another benefit of action research is that is serves as a form of professional development for teachers, school, and district leaders. Action research commits teachers to become active researchers engaged in relevant information. Also allowing them to learn a good amount about their students, teachers, and projects and programs through first hand inquiry and direct involvement with the process that will lead towards positive outcomes. By allowing educators the opportunity to challenge themselves intellectually, analytically, and in reflective practices the benefits of it becoming a habit is increased and it adds to their personal confidence and commitment levels. This form of research also allows opportunities to cultivate collective working groups and improve communication abilities through the entire school community taking into consideration the students, parents, teachers, administrations, and district and community leaders.

Action Research as a Professional Tool

Action Research is the process of systematically examining educational/instructional practices using traditional research theory. Educational Action Research centers on inquiry and the process of acquiring relevant and engaging information and resources in order to make improvement. The results of action research will help to shape and provide the background needed to improve and refine some instructional and administrative practices. Action research works well in an educational environment because it encompasses many of the key components that are present in effective educational systems. The process of action research involves collaboration with colleagues, community stakeholders, students and district/school administers.This type of research also promotes professional development but allowing a level of engagement that is beneficial for the individual and for the students.The collaboration opportunities provided by action research is an invaluable professional development experience, which will only strengthen as the processes becomes a habit in approaching issues. Action Research supports the educational ideology of discovery, exploration, and continuous reform as needed, through the stages of inquiry, research, and reasoning steered by (re)evaluation of the effectiveness of solutions. The direction of action research derives from the inquiry of one’s practice and/or of systems in place in their school environment The research can be considered is a living and breathing process in the aspect that is continuous and able to be evaluated, reevaluated, and modified depending on the findings.