Bob's Action Research Blog

Action research in an educational setting is used to identify problems or issues, come up with solutions to those issues, and then institute real change. It is different from traditional forms of research in that the primary researchers are the people within the school, and the problems or issues are unique to the organization. This method of research is powerful because it promotes real change with in the school. It also encourages stakeholders to collaborate more often, and remain focused on the goals of the school. Additionally, when a principal takes ownership of school improvement through action research, he or she sets an example for the rest of the staff and the students. The principal becomes the head learner at the school by modeling this behavior of ownership. The actions of the administrator are far more powerful than any words that are spoken.
All too often, administrators and teachers find themselves over loaded and overwhelmed with demands coming from many directions. This burden creates barriers that make it difficult to conduct action research and other worthy tasks. Since action research focuses on one issue or problem at a time, researchers can slow down their harried pace and work on one thing at a time instead of having multiple irons in the proverbial fire.

Educational leaders can use blogs to relay information to staff, parents, and students. He or she can also use blogs to collaborate with other principals and central administrators. Another use of blogs, and perhaps the most important, is to spark discussions regarding school improvement. By creating thought-provoking blogs and administrator can “kick-off” the process of positive change by encouraging the staff to reflect on their practice and to seek out ways to make improvements.