Action Research

I am encouraged about what I have learned from our readings about action research. I acknowledge its usefulness over the more traditional approach because of the reflective and problem solving component it contains. Action research involves posing a wondering, collecting data to gain insights into a wondering, analyzing data, making changes in practice based on new learning, and sharing findings with others. I see its benefits to an administrator as they seek to improve their school. Involving the principal in meaningful discussions with teachers about student learning and achievement will allow the principal to get out of isolation. Action research is also beneficial when a school staff can observe their principal as a head learner and model of reflective behavior. Finally, best practices will occur and the harried pace of a principal will lessen with action research. I look forward to finding time in my week as an administrator to reflect and inquire about issues that need attention. The ideas in the Dana text were helpful in finding ways in which to schedule time for action research. I believe the Druthers survey will be a strategy I may use at the end of a school year to learn about issues that might need reflective action.

Administrators could utilize blogs very successfully in conjunction with their action research. Similar to journaling, blogs can be used to record ideas and reflections as issues are researched. Reviewing and rereading journal entries can be a very valuable exercise when noting progress toward a goal. The ability blogs give an administrator to share with others and gain input from colleagues make them an even better tool than just journaling. Principals could also model their reflective writing on blogs to their students as they write and journal in their own classrooms.