What have you learned about action research?
Based on the understandings from Nancy Fichtman Dana's book, Leading with Passion and Knowledge: The Principal as Action Researcher, action research has a dual dynamic. First, administrative inquiry or action research is a substantive inquiry-based reflection tool where a principal engages in the purposeful study of their current administrative practices, philosophies and understandings. It assists administrators in seeing beyond the list of daily demands to a greater insight into their role as a campus community leader and to the value of inquiry (Harris et al., 2010, p. 6) as a life-long learner. Action research encourages administrators to actively and openly welcome change as they pose a purposeful question, collect and analyze the data, seek relevant literature, implement the necessary changes to the practice of question based on their new understandings, and share the results of the implemented change with others (Dana, 2009, p. 3). Secondly, action research is a professional development tool, assisting administrators to break free from the confines of leading as an individual to becoming more involved in collaborative discussion and problem-solving--a collaborative network of "inside" (Dana, 2009, p. 7) peers focusing on student achievement and campus improvement. In essence, administrative inquiry and action research guides administrators in the purposeful self-reflection and analysis needed to empower confident decision-making essential to campus growth and improvement. It encourages a principal to gain control of their own professional development needs and to reaffirm their subsequent leadership responsibilities to implement change in pursuit of transformative school improvement.
How might you be able to use it?
I find the idea of action research and administrative inquiry an excitingly intimate approach to identifying problems and systematically applying inquiry-based investigation to determine the best solution. By simply formulating a thought in the form of a question, the confines of a statement are removed and possibilities are limitless. In many ways, I am already applying action research, on a smaller scale, within the realities of my classroom. I began the school year with the following question: What kinds of instruction and experiences will it take to help my students become stronger mathematicians and scientists where they can be successful on TAKS and in life? This has become almost my inner mantra. I maintain a daily journal that accompanies my electronic lesson plans where I reflect on the days learning--what worked, what did not, and make any needed adjustments to the next day's plan. I analyze weekly assessment data and use the data to drive intervention groups. I read about best teaching practices in journals and publications from professional organization. I, often, look to the business community to see what they are looking for in future employees. I am prepared to admit when something is not working and will seek and implement change when necessary. Ultimately, action research is a promising adventure to me as the systematic approach to inquiry will help me stay focused and on point and learn to strengthen my ability to lead with a purpose and inspire with a question.
How might educational leaders use blogs?
Instantly, I can see blogs being used internally to disseminate information and request feedback where all stakeholders have a voice. Educational leaders might choose to use blogs to stimulate meaningful discussions about any number of topics, such as classroom management, behavioral management, lesson ideas, what's new in learning trends, great online resources etc. Furthermore, blogs can be introduced to praise, celebrate and motivate, for example, Post a Praise, "Celebrate Your Moment" daily administrator, teacher, student, and parent journals, "Now Blog This" writing prompts for students, etc. Imagine the amount of information that can be learned simply by getting to know the individuals within the building and the means to collaborate, empower, inspire a thinking community at the click of a button. On a more personal note, blogs offer a place to store, explore, develop and challenge your thoughts and understandings. They provide a digital link to a greater audience of support.
I commend you on your efforts with your students! Daily journaling is something that I have never been able to do consistently. After reading this week's literature I realize that I must make time for reflection at least weekly. I like the idea of thinking of blogs as an "audience of support" as well as the myriad of other practical purposes.
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