This week focused on real life examples of action research from three Texas school districts. These included improving TAKS scores, the process of gaining approval for and organizing an action research project, and using a grant to develop an on-time graduation program. Focus was placed on the importance of data driven research. Action research should be used to develop any improvement plan.
In order to develop research topics, the question ‘Where do I find my wonderings and questions?’ was explored (Fichtman, 2009). This section focused on nine passions that can be used to focus your thoughts when you are developing an action plan. These passions are staff development, curriculum development, individual teacher(s), individual student(s), school culture/community, leadership, management, school performance, and social justice or equity issues. While these passions focus on a wide range of subjects, all ultimately relate to the goal of student improvement.
This detailed exploration of examples of action research was beneficial to understanding the process and focusing on a topic for the required research in this program. The topic should be achievable in the time allotted and should be of concern to the school staff. By conducting the research, the topic can be examined and improved before determining if it can be successfully implemented.
April, I also liked reading the examples of action research, it was very beneficial for me to see what has been done in each of the nine areas. You are right when you state that ultimately all relate to the goal of student improvement.
ReplyDeleteApril, I really liked the fact that you pointed out that the ultimate goal of each action research plan was student improvement. I have to say that I honestly did not catch on to that when I was reading the week 2 assignment. I was just looking at each action research plan individually, not looking at everything as a whole. Thank you for sharing your insight, it really helped me to take a step back and look at the whole picture.
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