Action research is a process for school administrators to continuously improve education processes. Through action research, administrators identify areas of need that are based on local concerns. The administrator takes on the responsibility to research literature, collect data, and make observations to learn more about the problem at hand. Administrators analyze data with the intent to form methods for improvement. The entire process encourages collaboration and practical application of learned material. Action research is of critical importance to the school administrator as they seek to continuously make improvements on their campuses. Rather than simply sit under instruction and receive information, action researchers are involved in the process throughout. The development of a question or problem for research by the administrators ensures that the research is valuable and pertinent. This type of research is important in using professional development budget and time wisely. This process of self reflection and growth also allows leaders to seek new knowledge and immediately apply it to a local context on their campus. Action research could take place amongst a collaborative group of principals, a grade level professional learning community, or even a campus leadership team. All of these contexts allow for the educators to take ownership of the research and directly apply it for the purposes of the students they serve.
Using Blogs
Educational leaders can use blogs to share their learning with a variety of audiences. The use of blogs allows collaboration across distances. The blog can also serve as an access point for reference and communication.
