Musings on Action Research

Action Research differs from traditional research in that it isn't simply reporting facts and figures to support a theory or hypothesized outcome, but rather has the intended outcome of bringing about some form of change.

Through introductory reading from Leading with Passion and Knowledge: The Principal as Action Researcher (Dana, 2009), action research engages the principal in a productive form of inquiry based reflection through collaboration, not isolation. The context of the action research is authentic and based in real-time "wonderings" of the principal or even a committee to bring about positive change on the campus. What is challenging is finding the time within the day or week to engage in true reflection and inquiry in order to serve as a model for staff and students that we should all strive to be life-long learners.

A benefit of action research and inquiry based reflection is that the principal, staff and students will engage in best practices as an embedded part of the school culture. Whether it is the principal taking time to slow down their busy day to reflect, teachers working in PLCs or students engaging in reflective writing or discussion at the end of a lesson – these are best practices for long-term learning (Dana, 2009).

The concept of action research puts a new spin on my personal mind-set of conducting research in that it is systematic and outcome-driven with a focus on improvement and bringing about positive change on a campus.