Action Research and Uses Of

The book written by Nancy Fichtman Dana provided myself with the first real in depth look at action research and the uses of it. She describes action research as "the practitioner inquiry movement focuses on concerns of practitioners (not outside researchers) and engages practitioners in the design, data collection, and interpretation of data around their question" (Dana, Nancy (2009). Leading With Passion and Knowledge, Thousand Oaks, California: Corwin, p.5). I have learned that action research is much more progressive than standard research. The researcher is actually inside of the research and not a bystander from the outside. With the research is done in a cyclical or spiral method consisting of "reflection and action." (Dana, 2009, p.5) Each spiral involves different steps to reach an outcome. First, the practitioner clarifies and diagnosis a practical situation that needs to improved. Second, the practitioner formulates strategies to improve the situation. Third, the practitioner implements the strategies and notes the effectiveness. Lastly, the situation is clarified and readdressed. The process will begin again after completing the steps.

As an administrator I could include action research in my position and spread it to the rest of my campus. As principal, I will make the time to reflect and evaluate a situation. The reflection time will allow me a more objective view of the situation. I would also spread the action research to department meetings where I would expect the teachers to take an active role in a situation and an ultimate solution. I would sit in the department meeting and collaborate with the teachers involved and help guide them if needed.