Action Research

Action research is a reflective and collaborative process in which a school administrator and teacher research and analyze specific data that will enhance decision-making to impact change.  These identified problems are directly impacting their school on a daily basis and through inquiry administrators can make informed decisions. This specific research is valuable to a school, because it forces administrators to take ownership and stay invested in seeing the process through.  The end result can only happen by completing tasks such as recognizing the specific needs, collecting and analyzing the data, and developing and implementing the designated action.   This process has no time frame or order in which they follow.  For change to occur you may have to modify or alter your plan of action due to the demographics or climate of the school.  Improving instruction is a real problem and concern that occurs in schools today nationwide.  However, there is no universal answer to solve this educational epidemic.  Action research provides a thorough approach that forces educators to investigate contributing factors that have been derailing schools performance for years.  It also provides opportunities for administrators to collaborate with their colleagues and other professionals brainstorm solutions that may or may not improve their specific school.  

Educational leaders can use blogs as a source of networking with other professionals in their particular field or who share similar interests.  Blogs are an effective communication tool that builds connection between people and ideas.  Educational leaders can use blogs to discuss real problems and issues in their workplace.  By this interaction, educational leaders can make informed decisions based on the information or feedback they receive from bloggers.