EDLD 5301 Week 2

Week 2 Reflection

We continued to learn about action research this week and how to determine good action research projects. In doing this, I learned a lot about the how and why of administrators. I was able to gain a lot of knowledge in the way Dana (2009) broke down the nine areas of wonder: staff development, curriculum development, individual teachers, individual students, school culture/community, leadership, management, school performance, and social justice (page 30). These are all areas I have given much thought to, but not as an administrator might view them.

I really enjoyed listening to Principal Johnny Briseno and the steps he takes when a teacher brings a problem to him and his outlook on action research. He first wants to see data to prove there is a problem and he uses data to help solve the problem. He does not only look at the quantitative data, but realizes that there are things that numbers are unable to show. He made to great points: no change should ever be made without data being analyzed first and use prior research when looking for solutions to problems.

I am still leaning towards doing my action research project on technology and the gifted student. My site mentor (Ms. Wells) and I will meet at a later date to finalize and begin the action research plan.

Dana, N. F. (2009). Leading with passion and knowledge: The principal as action researcher. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.