About Action Research - Overview
Action research is a process of deep inquiry into one's practices with others with the goal of evolving a deeper understanding of patterns of change. It involves taking action and collecting data to analyze and understand the actions from the perspectives of others and in relation to a projected outcome. It is cyclic, as the researcher moves through stages of thoughtful planning of the action, taking action, then analyzing evidence collected to make sense of the action. One cycle is linked to the next by a phase of critical reflection on what was learned. The reflection often results in conceptual tools for planning the next actions. As one progresses through cycles, there is a continuous process of refining methods, making new decisions about data collection, and evolving strategies for data interpretation.
Tutorial 1: About Action Research Video
The understanding developed through reflection on earlier cycles shapes the process of inquiry often in new directions. Action research is then an iterative process that converges towards a better understanding of what happens as a result of actions taken. Because practices involve other people, action research is participatory, often highly collaborative, and often employs both quantitative and qualitative methods. The only "object" of research is the researcher, himself or herself, the participants are often co-researchers or partners in change. The goal is to evolve a theory of change that is highly sensitive to the factors that operate in a particular context and to understand the role that the action researcher plays in effecting change.
Tutorial 1: Activities
A. Creating your action research journal (Blog)
B. Forming action research learning circles.
Tutorial 1: Resources
A. Finding connections to Action Resource Communities
B. Action research tools