ACTION RESEARCH

For the past few weeks I have been learning about a process called action research.  Dana (2009) and Ringler (2007) describe action research as the process whereby a teacher, principal or superintendent, individually or together take time to reflect on their practice in their particular field and decide on a "wondering" or a question about an area in their field of responsibility which could use improvement.  The then define and refine the question so that it is manageable, and open ended so that it may be answered in a way which will be defined by researching possible solutions to the problem and settling on an appropriate course of action. 

After resting on a good question or “wondering”, research is done to identify possible courses of action to take in resolving the question at hand.  This step is necessary because it opens the researcher up to new ideas that he or she may not have come up with on their own.  It also connects them to others in their field who have faced the same problem and also leads one to better collaborative decisions.  

After sifting through the various options, a plan of action is then engaged by them personally in their classroom or administrative duties.  Upon completion, time is taken to reflect on the action research project and decide if it has been a successful endeavor. Then, of course, one needs to share the experience, their research, with others so that they may learn.

HOW AN EDUCATIONAL LEADER MIGHT USE A BLOG

I believe that blogs can be an important part of an educational leader’s routine.  Blogging gives a person to the opportunity to set their ideas before a larger audience.  When I write on my blog, people who are next door, or thousands of miles away can instantly read my thoughts on any particular subject that I may be blogging about. 

In public education in the United States, we each have our own unique state requirements as well as district requirements but all of us are bound by federal requirements which, for the most part, drive education.  This is a venue whereby we as educators can support each other and learn from each other by creating a community that is not bound by distance, states or local districts. Blogs are a forum where likeminded individuals can come together to share ideas, support others, and collaborate in an effort to become better leaders.

Ringler, M. (2007) Action Research an Effective Instructional Leadership Skill for Future Public School Leaders. Journal of Scholarship and Practice, 4(1), 27-42.

Dana, N. F. (2009). Chapter 1 Administrator Inquiry Defined. Leading With Passion and     Knowledge: The Principal as Action Researcher, Kindle Locations 247-757. Corwin Press. [Kindle Edition]