What is Action Research?

Administrative inquiry or action research is “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 the inquiry.” Dana (2009)

In other words, action research is the way administrators can look at themselves objectively to evaluate the way they perform their jobs. Through action research administrators use a cyclical pattern of reflection and action to evaluate themselves, take action to improve, and then evaluate themselves again. This gives administrators valuable feedback that they can use to determine the best practices to do their jobs at a higher level. As administrators participate in action research, they will develop a sense of ownership and should eventually develop an inquiry stance in which they regularly question their own practices and evaluate them.

I think I can use action research in my chosen field of Educational Technology to evaluate myself to ensure that I am constantly working to both learn and teach about new technology that is available in the classroom. Teachers who want to use technology in the classroom need someone who can steer them through the plethora of information available and given them practical, proven methods to use technology effectively to enhance their lessons. I think that is the primary responsibility of someone in education technology. Because of that, action research will be vital to ensure than I am effectively meeting the needs of the teachers, so they can meet the needs of students. Because, after all, that is why we are all in education in the first place.

Resources:
Dana, Nancy Fichtman (2009). Leading With Passion and Knowledge: The Principal as Action Researcher (Kindle Locations 329-330). Corwin Press. Kindle Edition.