What I learned about Action Research

           Before beginning this class I would have thought that action research would be done in a library looking up scholarly articles and summarizing them.  I have since learned that action research or administrator inquiry is a tool that can be used by a principal to “help them untangle the complexity of their work as administrators and bring the focus of their work back to their leadership in teaching and learning” (Dana, 2009 pg. 2).  Action research is a process that begins with the administrator examining and reflecting on their own practice.  During these reflections, questions or which Dana calls “wonderings” are formed by administrators.  The process, which is not linear, continues with collecting and analyzing data, and sharing the learned information with others. Action research allows principals to gain a better understanding of their practice and in turn helps them improve their schools. 

            As a classroom teacher, I have always been reflective in my practice looking for ways to improve lessons and increase student achievement.  I’ve learned that action research is based on teacher action research.  Action research is done in the confines of a principal's own school building.  Administrators involved in action research are in the best position to enable the changes that come from the knowledge gained during their own inquiry. 

            Finally, I learned that action research is also a tool that a principal can use to continue their own professional development.  In the past, principals like teachers had worked in isolation.  Action research allows for collaboration with other principals and teachers.  By participating in action research principals can become models for their teachers and students as lifelong learners.