Action Research

Action research is a reaction to a particular problem or concern of a particular group of people with an immediate problematic situation. The process, initiated by an individual, facilitates gathering and assimilating information that can help a group answer and make changes in a particular situation. An essential part of the research inquiry is a commitment to study a system and at the same time as a collaborative environment is established with other members of the system who will work together in a desired direction. Accomplishing this goal requires the active collaboration of researcher and clients, and fosters an environment of co-learning as the primary aspect of the research process.


Gerald Susman proposes the following as a model to guide the research: diagnose, plan action, take action, evaluate, and specify learning. The process flows in a circular manner until a lasting solution is determined.

Action research offers administrative leaders the opportunity to become engaged with the process of investigating on-going situations under their control. It provides opportunities to become more active participants in researching ways and method to improve the educational processes they are tasked with monitoring. The process also provides the unique ability to plan and implement professional development that means something on a more personal level.

As I move into a leadership role in technology I can see this process as a valuable tool to help me seek answers to questions about the delivery of technology instruction and the role technology plays in education. Teachers who deliver content will provide me with better insight into what they need to be effective facilitator and integrators of technology in the classroom. My primary teaching goal is to develop learners that are prepared for the 21st century workplace. As technology evolves so will the challenges of educators to deliver. Action research will provide the tool to address needs as they occur and then systematically find answers.

Susman, G. Action research: a sociotechnical systems serspective. Ed. G. Morgan. London: Sage Publications, 1983. 95-113.

Educational Blogs

The act 'blogging' to share and gather information is a very new process for me.  However, I can see the value in the process.  It is a way to capture "thinking" about a question.  As we think and share ideas we can benefit from the contributtions of other professional who are asking and/or answering similar quesitons.As I  teach my students everyday about the concept that we live in a global society, it is also true for educators.  We go to work for 8 hours a day (most of us spend much more), and then we yearn for opprotunities to share and question our practices.  We look for ways to share our expereiences and seek advice for our practices that aren't working.  The addittion Web 2.0 tools like blogging has opened a new avenue for open disucssions for teachers all over the world.