What is Action Research, and What are the Implications for its Use?

Administrative inquiry “refers to the process of a principal engaging in systematic, intentional study of his/her own administrative practice and taking action for change based on what he/she learns as a result of inquiry” (Dana, et al.). This art of inquiry is similar to scientific research in the fact that it calls for posing questions, collecting and analyzing data, and creating a conclusion that results in change. The difference between traditional research and administrative inquiry is that administrative inquiry calls for reflection of one’s own practice. Administrative inquiry can be used to “gain deeper insights into their practice as administrators and their leadership role in school improvement efforts” (Dana et. al.). It is the “systematic approach to improvement based on the process of inquiry and the use of diagnostic data” (Harris, et al.).

As I begin thinking about how I want to first engage in action research, I cannot help but think about my current position on campus. As a special education department chair, students with special needs of any kind have my heart. As I co-teach in the classroom, I see the way that they struggle academically, socially, emotionally, etc. I see their cries to understand the material while something hinders them. As a science co-teacher, I frequently look at the data of my students in the classroom. The TAKS scores from previous years have been a less than 50% passing rate. I want to implement the use of graphic organizers to help students separate information presented in class, use them to study, improve unit test scores which should ultimately promote success on the TAKS. I want to begin by using the first six weeks to gather baseline data. I need to understand the functioning level of the students in my classroom before offering an aid because without the baseline, I will not be able to accurately track improvement and the success of the aid. Beginning with the second six weeks, I will begin introducing the use of the graphic organizers. they will be teacher created for the 2nd and 3rd six weeks and culminate with student creation in the 4th six weeks. Over time, I will track the progress on students tests with the introduction of the organizers.My data and charts will culminate with science TAKS scores next April.

Most educators on my campus currently run a blog. They disseminate information to students via the blog. They also share information with regard to strategies that are working in their classrooms. Blogs can be very useful in aiding teachers with real strategies that have been proven to work on their campus by sharing information in a user-firendly form.