What I have learned about Action Research and how I might use it.

Initially, I was pretty apprehensive about starting a blog.  I mean, who was going to be interested in what I had to say and how was it going to be beneficial to anyone, including myself?  But then I realized that this could be a great tool for self-reflection and thought organization.  These will be essential as I proceed though the process of earning my masters degree.

It turns out that Action Research wasn't anything for me to fear.  I've already been using this type of systematic inquiry in my coaching for the past 20 years.  Researching offensive and defensive schemes, studying film, crunching data, experimenting with line-ups, evaluating the results, then making fine-tuning adjustments based on what I've learned.  Sometimes schemes are tweaked, sometimes they are trashed, all in the name of forming a better functioning product (team).

With more and more data becoming available through assessments and standardized testing, educators are flood with pages and pages of information but have limited time and means to put it to use.  Action Research provides for ONGOING research based on continual spiraling of it's investigative nature.  One only needs to get the process going in order to reap the benefits.  Just analyze, understand, reflect, explore, determine direction, act, then sustain any improvements.  You just have to give it the proper time necessary in order to provide the planning and examination that the process needs in order to lead to a successful solution.



Harris, S., Edmonson, S., & Combs, J. (2010). Examining what we do to improve our schools. (pp. 5-7). Larchmont, NY: Eye On Education, Inc.