What is action research, and how can we use it?

Action research is based in an educational setting and allows the educator to address issues for which they usually have an immediate concern about, as well as what they may have some type of control over. This allows them to make necessary changes which may bring about a desired result by making themselves question, look at the data, and make decisions. As an administrator, action research is imperative in keeping you involved in your campus and community. As someone who has been called “Ms. Action”, this type of research is more appealing to me than traditional research. In traditional research, we are led by the works of other people that while having done extensive research to provide great insight, have never stepped foot onto our campus, districts, or states. What works for one, may not work in a district or even campus with different demographics. With action research, administrators have the ability to focus on prevalent issues they see on their campus while partnering with their teachers. Making decisions by listening to students, teachers, and the learning community will bring more information and increase morale at the same time. Action research can also be important in staff development. If all faculty on one campus is a part of action research, you have a campus engaged in solving issues effectively as a team.