This article is very useful, especially for someone who is quite new to the idea of action research (AR) (me included). The author introduces the idea in a very approachable way and provides more in-depth information on conducting the research in an educational setting.
What is action research?
“Action research is a term which refers to a practical way of looking at your own work to check that it is as you would like it to be. Because action research is done by you, the practitioner, it is often referred to as practitioner based research; and because it involves you thinking about and reflecting on your work, it can also be called a form of self-reflective practice.”
- The idea of self-reflection is central in AR- researchers do research on themselves.
- AR is open ended
- It begins with the question “How do I improve my work?”
- It can generate new knowledge through dialogue – dialogue of equals – we all share and value one another’s learning. One improves their work for their own benefit and the benefit of others.
- Use of research methodology = evaluation of the action
Focus of AR
The author mentions the following aspects of AR:
- Technical – focus on the research methods and getting them right; main stress is on the procedures, taking the right steps
- Values that inform AR – and how the research can lead to living out those values. Method is still important, but we need to look at what’s underlying our action – why and what we are doing, what kind of values and commitments we hold?
Planning AR
This is a particularly important chapter for me. The set of questions forming the action plan provided a starting point in thinking about my project for the ARP Unit on the PgCert course. Before reading this text, I felt overwhelmed by this unit and starting my own AR. I’m still a bit anxious, but also excited now when I gathered more information on the subject.
“The main point is to identify an area you wish to investigate and be reasonably clear about why you wish to get involved”
Other important points:
- aim to address one small aspect of your work
- Can I actually to something about this issue?
- Once I have identified a research issue, I can formulate a research question: How do I…?
- I’m trying to improve something. This doesn’t mean perfection!!
- I can focus on improving my understanding or an aspect of the social situation I’m in.
Gathering evidence
To gather data about the situation you can use variety of methods: journals, diaries, notes, audio and video recordings, surveys, attitude scales, pictures and so on. You can use different methods at different times. You will need to compare the first set of data with the later sets and see if you can say that there are any changes, that you can show that you influenced the situation.
Importance of working criteria (connected to your values) – for example if you believe that all people should be treated fairly – what evidence you may have to show that they are treated fairly.
“To show that you are living in the direction of your values, you need to search your data archive, and produce pieces of data that meet the criteria. When data match the criteria, those pieces of data become evidence.”
And finally, the quote that in my opinion describes the AR in very encouraging way. I find it motivational:
“Action research is one way to influence social change. If everyone did a bit extra for someone else, the world would instantly be a happier and more productive place for all.