What I have learned about action research in education

Action research is conducted by an administrator or educator to help them reflect on a current situation in their school. First they study their problem and concerns, next they create a solution and plan to address this problem, and they then put the plan into action and review the data and learn from the results. Action research for education is clear. It is what is done every day in every school. It is educating children the best we know how and then reflect on what we have accomplished and learning how to do it better. Action research is a great tool for an administrator to use in their building to see what areas need to be addressed and how they can train their staff to accomplish the goals that he or she has set for the staff and students. Action research gives not just the individual that is working on this problem insight and ideas; it also allows them to work collaboratively to share ideas of what has worked in the past, what is currently happening and where the outcome might lead. Action research is also a great tool because past data and strategies can be used, but the present and watching students learn and grow through the process is a wonderful benefit. It is an ongoing action plan; not just stopping with the one problem that was identified in the beginning but reflecting on other areas of concerns and spiraling from there to tackle those issues as well. Through action research the process is three dimensional involving all stakeholders, administrators, teachers, students and the data behind it to solve a problem and enhance the achievement of the students. The traditional educational research model is one dimensional and does not give back to the reader by involving them as well. Action research is the best tool that educators can use to enhance their students’ learning and achievements; as well as a tool to help them be lifelong learners.