What is Action Research & how can I use It

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.