Before this week, I have never heard of action research. In the past, when the subject of research would come up, I would usually cringe and curl up in fear. This week, I had the opposite reaction. I started EDLD 5301 at Lamar University, and began reading about action research. Action research is the process of a principal engaging in a systematic approach of intentional study and taking action based on the outcomes of the inquiry. It is an intentional approach individuals take, who are looking to implement some type of change. It includes various steps such as collecting and analyzing data, developing a deeper understanding, engaging in self-reflection, participating in reading relevant literature, making changes, taking action, sharing findings with others, and maintaining and sustaining improvements made. It is more than writing a research paper that might never be looked at again. Action research can create positive and powerful school improvement and learning.
I love the idea of action research. I have already spoken with my site supervisor and we have devised a great idea for my action research topic. My topic currently is: Can attendance be improved and maintained using motivational techniques in an elementary school? Our school currently has a poor way of recognizing students for attending school, which I would like to research and revamp. Another goal of mine would be to reach out to the parents so that they become more aware of the importance of attendance on their child's education. I am excited to take on this action research plan to provide my school different methods of improvement in this area. I think that by having an inquiry project within my coursework, it will give me the confidence to carry out the process of action research when I do become an administrator.
Hope everyone has a blessed second week!
Mary
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