What is Action Research

What is Action Research and How Can I Use it?

Action research is taking traditional research to a new level.  In traditional research, there is very little room for interpretation or modification based on need.  Action research not only allows the researcher to choose topics that are relevant to their everyday lives, but also to collaborate with colleagues to provide solutions to problems faced everyday.  The benefits of action research greatly outweigh those of traditional research.  In the education field there are many different ways to use action research.  One way is to use PLCs or professional learning communities.  I would allow staff to sign up for an area of interest after brainstorming 10 concerns facing the staff.  After we have identified those concerns, and the staff have signed up for their area of interest, we would then begin as small groups researching solutions to each of the 10 problems.  Another area that is a huge area of concern in my specific field is how to improve literacy and comprehension in students who are hearing impaired.  As our students struggle with their language, reading and comprehension has continued to be a concern and struggle that affects every deaf education teacher.  I plan on using action research to find best practices when teaching reading and comprehension to our specific demographic.  These are just a few ways that I would plan to use action research as an administrator.