EDLD 5301 Week 1

Action Research

I have learned a tremendous amount of new information this week. Unbeknownst me, there is more than one type of research. There is the traditional research where a non-biased person gathers information for no other reason than to explain it. Action research, on the other hand is the complete opposite. Of course, I knew that there was ongoing research, but I never gave it any real thought as to what it would be called or if it would be conducted inside or part of a learning environment. Well, that is exactly what action research is! The two biggest differences in traditional research and action research is that the person conducting the action research is a part of the situation and begins the research with the intent to improve it. Ringler (2007) lists the steps of action research as to include, "identifying a classroom learning problem, developing and implementing an action research plan, collecting and analyzing data, and evaluating and sharing results" (as cited in Calhoun, 1994; Sagor 2000). With our primary goal in education being to continuously improve the educational growth of students in order for them to become productive citizens, we need a way to identify problems, gather data, and improve their learning environment and learning in general. Action research is perfect for this. Most teachers use action research (on a smaller scale) daily without even knowing they are doing it.They do this when reflecting on their daily lessons. A teacher sees that the students did not grasp a concept, she thinks why this might be, searches for another way to teach it or alter her lesson, and teaches it again the next way in a different way. Using action research to solve problems allows for everyone involved to feel as if they are part of the solution. Action research is a great way to work together to improve a set problem.


Ringler, M. (2007). Action research an effective instructional leadership skill for future public school leaders. Journal of Scholarship and Practice, 4, 27-36.

Leaders and Blogs

Blogs are a great way for leaders to provide a sense of community. They can use it as a way for the educational staff to reflect upon meetings, lessons, or the weekly events. They can use them as a way to promote open communication, gather feedback, and update information for staff members. Blogging is a great way to share and gain new ideas. I think that it would be beneficial when working on an action research project because blogs keep a timeline and everyone is able to review and share information. Blogs can be utilized in many productive ways be people in leadership roles.