Action Research

I have learned that action research is a multi faceted approach to problem solving.   It differs from traditional educational research in that it is initiated at the campus or district level and can address concerns specific to that site.  Action research begins with a question or concern.  Data is then collected and research literature is studied to gain insight into the problem.  Based on the knowledge gained during the process, a plan of action is then formulated.  Sharing information with others completes the action research process, but it should not end there.  Reflection is a means to continue to think about the problem and address issues as they arise.  Through reflection, the change effected through the research project continues to address issues specific to the campus or district and allows for maximum benefit. 

In my current position, I currently conduct portions of action research projects, but have discovered that I leave out important aspects.  As a department, we collect data as part of an ongoing process to conduct program evaluations, and base decisions/actions on that data.  Missing is the research and reflection portions of the process.  I now see that our “action plans” have been limited by these omissions.  We can make much better decisions by accessing research that has already been conducted and by collaborating with others with similar concerns. 

Since discipline is an ongoing concern at our junior high school, my action research project will focus on our PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports) program.  I will collect data on a specific group of students this year and next to evaluate the implementation level of the campus, student and teacher attitudes toward the program, and the effect the program has had on these students’ behaviors.