I have learned that action research gives admiistrators and leaders more diverse opportunities to study leadership skills and processes while altering what is necessary through questions or "wonderings" they have about their own reflection practices. Action research is a powerful tool utilized by practitioners as it is ongoing and a "continual set of spirals consisting of reflection and action" (Dana, N.F., 2009). Action research focuses on improvement through influencing change, as the process allows for inquiry and collaboration among practitioners addressing, examining, and assessing concerns to real problems they experience in their own schools. The tool is so powerful in that the inquiry process works to improve from the inside, focusing on principal, teacher, or student needs. Additionally, reflection is essential in understanding what changes are necessary. The process begins with inquiry, identifying the problem, collecting and interpreting data, reflection, and determining actions to be taken. Action research is a pursuit of expanding knowledge and ways to improve skills, techniques, and strategies to impact students. It, therefore, differs from traditional research in this way. Traditional research begins and ends with outside sources not connected to the "inside."
Using action research as an educator will help me to gain more knowledge and collaborate with colleagues, impacting where it matters the most -- my campus, teachers, and students. As this process is ongoing, the learning will continue as well as collaboration with all individuals, working toward the same goals. Inquiry will help me to be the role model for teachers and students and take control over one issue at a time. Additionally, reflection is a must. Reflecting often will help me to become a better leader and educator, keeping abreast of the issues and challenges faced on my campus, communicating, collaborating, and analyzing strategies and techniques that are valuable in attaining student success.
Resources:
Dana, N.F. (2009). Leading with passion and knowledge: The principal as action researcher. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.
Enjoyed reading your blog! It looks and sounds fantastic. Moreover, it sounds like you have much knowledge in the benefits of action research and ways to apply it.
ReplyDeleteLinda, I like that you pointed out being a good role model. I hate to say that I have had a couple of very poor role models as leaders. Teachers need all the support they can get, and I believe a leader who is role modeling is supportive. They give the staff a person they believe in, because they see them in action. It also helps to guide you when you're questioning what it is you need to do.
ReplyDeleteWell put Linda. I agree with your thoughts on reflection will be a valuable tool as a classroom teacher as well as an aspiring administrator.
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