Action research is a, learn as you do process. It
is a systematic process that utilizes the collection of data, the analyzing of
data, making changes based on your findings, and developing new understandings.
One person can come to identify a problem however usually many different
entities collaborate to find different resolutions to a problem. It is rather scientific in its process in that
it can entail much trial and error. One gathers information from many different
resources and experiments to adapt and change those styles to better suit a specific
need.
This process differs from the old ways of analyzing
problems in the fact that it utilizes a very hands-on approach. With action research you can utilize a known
theory as a basis but try different approaches to attempt after trial, experimentation;
collection and analyzing of data to better suit the needs at hand.
I currently use different forms of action research
as a teacher and as a student. As a teacher, I use a form of action research in
my PLC group. I am currently on the Science PLC at my school. Different science
representatives meet bi-weekly to collaborate on different approaches and
techniques we use with our students to implement the Science TEKS for our
different grade levels. This assists me in my teachings because I can
collaborate with my team-mates about different ideas or suggestions to implement
with my students. We share ideas and modify them to our specific needs in our
different grade levels.
As a student, I will be using action research to
conduct a plan for my action research project. Currently, I am thinking about
researching the effects of the implementation of a dual language program in the
lower grades. I am going to analyze data on these students and see how or what
can be done to ultimately better the reading competencies and/or abilities many
of our students lack in the upper grades.
