Action Research: What I have learned and what I will use...

What was learned about action research and how might you use it?

In general, I feel Action Research is a very effective goal setting/problem solving method that can allow all members of a learning community to reflect and act upon solutions that benefit the entire group.  The practice of action research encompasses some very basic, but powerful principles that encourage leaders to take an active role in determining and resolving the most immediate issues impacting the campus or district.

Through my investigations, I found there are several models demonstrating the concept of action research.  While they may differ slightly depending on their purpose, they all include a systematic approach for identifying an issue, developing an action plan, analyzing the results and revisiting the process.  All of which are reminiscecent of the scientific method.

PDSA Cycle

My district uses a similar model called PDSA or Plan/Do/Study/Act that is designed upon the Baldrige model of continuous improvement.  These strategies are applied at all level within the district and used to develop district goals.  Given this fact, I feel that action research will lend itself to much of what is already practiced regularly within my job duties.  I’ve seen what a positive impact these practices have achieved within my district and plan to use action research regularly.  I like the fact that it allows leaders to identify immediate issues and work toward a collective solution with members of the professional learning community.

How could educational leaders use blogs? 

I believe there are multiple ways an educational leader could use blogs.  For instance, they could use it to communicate with staff members on first day Q & A before the school year even begins.  By the time staff arrives for their first day, many of the common questions will have already been answered.  They could also use it to post relevant information about daily operations, minutes from staff meetings, daily announcements, etc.  If used properly, it can be a wonderful tool for communication and collaboration.