Action Research Reflection

When I first began this course, I was very scared that I would be doing research that I wasn’t interested in just to fulfill the requirements of the course. The first week was very much a wake-up call for me. I quickly learned by reading the “Leading with a Passion and Knowledge: The Principal as Action Researcher” by Dana, that I was very wrong. My past experiences in college dealt with the traditional research and now I was learning about action research. I was very relieved to learn that action research would be a project that I could implement to help improve an area of my school. I was able to learn the steps needed as well as the many areas that action research could be implemented. I never had thought of this as something school leaders do. I knew they made changes, but was unaware of the process to initiate that change. The text resource, “Examining What We Do To Improve Our Schools” by Harris, was a great resource that helped me to understand all of the steps needed to implement an action research plan.

Through this class I changed my topic several times and was overwhelmed from the possibilities of topics. Every day I found myself wondering and worrying about what type of research I could actually manage. I really think posing my thoughts on the discussion boards and on my blog really helped me to shape my action research plan. At first, I was nervous to put my plan on my blog afraid of others’ criticism. I quickly learned that I was not alone. Other people were having the same struggles that I was. I really enjoyed learning from others through the use of the blogs. The blogs were a great reference of help. I really enjoyed reading other student’s comments on my plan. They really helped me to think deeper and include every necessary step when creating my plan. At first I had a huge project in mind. I posted my idea on my blog, and found feedback from a fellow classmate that really helped me to narrow my research topic and stay focused on a plan that was easier to implement. The discussion boards were also a great place to give and receive feedback.

 I really enjoyed participating or viewing the web conferences that were set up by Dr. Abshire. I really found this to be a helpful tool in deciphering all of the information on the assignments.  A few times, I was unsure of what I needed to do to complete the assignment. I always felt like I all of my questions were answered in the conferences.  I also felt more prepared going into the following week because of the information that was given and the questions that were asked.

Overall, I know I have learned a great deal about action research. I learned how to pose a wondering or inquiry. I learned that being a reflective practitioner is vital in being a successful action researcher. I was made aware of all of the ways to collect data such as surveys, questionnaires, and reflective journals.  I am very excited about my opportunity to make a positive change for my grade level or even school by implementing an action research plan. I can’t wait to get started and to see what results I will find, the changes I will make, and the challenges I may face.