What is Action Research?

Action research is a process of discovery used by administrators to identify issues, determine the most appropriate plan of action, analyze the outcomes, and evaluate the culture and climate of their organization. Over the last week I’ve learned quite a bit about the evidence supporting the use of these methods to become an effective leader. If I follow the process of action research, then I will have a very powerful tool for an effectively successful campus.

Action research will first guide me through identifying issues that arise on my campus through collaboration with teachers and other administrators. Sometimes the issue will be evident, sometimes it will be unclear, and sometimes I will become aware of the issue even before it is an issue. From this observation I will be able to determine the effect that the issue will have on my campus vision.

Once the issue or conflict is identified, then I can seek out possible resolutions for the issue. Possibilities should be sought from many different sources, including advice from experts and other administrators as well as the ideas from the parties affected by the issue. To find many differentiated ideas and to give ownership to the action team, I must give the appropriate consideration to the individuals that are most familiar with the issue at hand. This includes the experts that have knowledge of best practices and the team of individuals that are familiar with the specific school culture and climate. The most appropriate solution is chosen from this information.

Following the action plan initiation, continuous reflection must be used to determine the actual effectiveness of the plan and its alignment with the campus vision. I will put steps in place to consistently evaluate the progress of the action plan and I will collaborate with the action team to modify the plan when necessary.

If I use the process of action research as often as possible, then I will become proficient at utilizing this tool for resolving campus problems. I will be able to use action research to minimize the negative impact of conflicts and issues that present themselves on my campus. Whenever the issue comes up, I will be able to analyze it and determine the most appropriate course of action to take. I believe that the most important way that I can use action research is to use it to create a positive environment of motivated teachers and students who work toward the achievement of a shared campus vision