A first look into Action Research

Administrative inquiry, action research, is constantly striving to find new ways to better your and in turn find ways to benefit the school, staff, and students. Inquiors are always looking for ways to improve by making a change. This can be done by reflecting on experiences and finding ways to change what they feel is not the best practice. Not only should you learn and reflect on your own actions, but also from professional development such as study groups, professional literature, and data collection. Continuing your studying is a great way to see others prospective and help yourself grow. You are able to take ideas and actions from others to help you grow in different areas.

Action research differs from traditional educational research because the person involved puts themselves into the research in administrative inquiry. They are an active part of the plan and continue to grown being involved in the process. Traditional research is helpful to educators, but does not target their exact needs.

One of the hardest thing is for an administrator to find time for action research. Scheduling time, like finding time to go for a run, is key in making sure you are actively trying to make the right change. Some examples of action research that administrators could do are, Joining a university course, participating in superintendent and district meetings and being actively involved in leadership teams. The benefit of conducting action research is you are constantly expanding your knowledge and finding ways to help create a positive change in yourself and the community you are working in. You are able to evaluate yourself and focus on the best ways to benefit your staff and students. Change will happen with action research because administrator have a better understand of how to set and achieve their goals and objectives.