What Exactly IS Action Research?!?

To be honest, I've read and re-read our text and article for this week to try and get a solid handle on the nuances of action research, and I'm still not sure I have it totally sorted out! The big understanding I've taken away from the readings is that administrative inquiry requires the participant(s) to take an active role in learning, processing and problem solving, while traditional educational research is more passive. What helped me best sort through the concepts was the article titled "Action Research an Effective Instructional Leadership Skill for Future Public School Leaders" (Ringler, 2007). There's a graphic on page 30 that clarifies for me what action research is all about. It shows a continuum of the process that begins with the leader defining a problem or concern then using professional literature to research and review the issue. Next, the plan requires the researcher to take action before finishing the process by using and sharing results. However, what truly solidifies the concept of action research for me is the fact that once the results are shared, the process continues by defining a new problem or concern. Through this flow-chart, I realize that action research doesn't just end with the sharing of results. Instead, it goes on with reflection that leads to the identification of other problems, questions or issues that have arisen from the action that was taken. This is a significant difference between traditional research and action research. Traditional research provides information or training whereby a teacher or administrator can implement a program or process. If it works, great. If it doesn't, we toss it out and move on to something else, often losing valuable time and energy in the process. The action research model provides a method where there is continuous questioning, researching, sharing, changing, tweaking and problem solving in order to achieve the best possible outcome. The action research model is a far better use of time, energy and resources and is more likely to result in real change taking place on our campuses.

Blogs are a great way for leaders to share ideas and research, facilitate discussion, allow for feedback and open the door to greater communication. During the school day, teachers and administrators are often too busy to take the time to talk and share concerns or ideas. Blogs allow leaders to create an open dialogue with teachers and others who can read and post at their convenience. A blog can also provide a public means for a leader to share action research results. Because their opportunities to interact and share with other leaders is often sparse, administrators can take advantage of blogging to share what's working on their campuses and gain valuable information from other administrators. It creates a virtual community of collaboration that can help make schools most effective.

Ringler, M.C. (2007). Action Research an Effective Instructional Leadership Skill for Future Public School Leaders. AASA Journal of Scholarship and Practice, 4(1), 27-37.