Action Research

Perception is sometimes very deceiving, which is the case as one first endeavors into the topic of action research. The connotation of research brings back memories of spending time in the library or on the internet gathering information on a topic where others have written and documented their findings. From this, as the researcher, decisions are made based on what others outside the environment for which it is to be applied suggest as best practice. But, this could not be further from the intentions for action research. Action research is more about collecting information to be used to identify what is not working in day to day practice and developing a plan to improve. But it does not stop there; it also requires a plan or method/strategy for evaluating the changes and time to reflect on the new outcomes in order to continuously improve implementation and results.
Although some outside information can be useful, most comes from data pertinent to the environment for which action will be taken. Collaboration with colleagues, standardized test results along with daily interactions are all factors to be considered. Time, available resources and financial need always play a big role. Action research is about addressing a need or particular problem that is relevant right now in a non perfect environment and usually with limited resources. The time for reflection must be planned and allotted for, otherwise it will affect or even breakdown the process as it is intended. With consideration for each aspect of the action research process good work can be improved rather than starting over each time some component of a practice is not being as effective as desired.