What have I learned about action research?

Action research is a way that good leaders seek to accelerate school improvement. Inquiring administrators reflect on changes that need to be made on their campus. They collect data and analyze that data to make appropriate changes. Literature that is relevant to the occurring change is researched, so that professionals can try to gain new understandings and solutions to their problems. Through this process, administrators can gain a better understanding of their leadership roles and participate with school stakeholders to collaboratively contribute to school success. Administrative inquiry is a very powerful tool for success.

Action research differs from traditional research. In traditional research, research is conducted by outside researchers that are located outside of the school community, such as at universities that are dealing with theory. In traditional research questions are identified by outside researchers, and often principals are apprehensive about identifying "problems" with their school, fearing repercussions by the superintendent. Action research is vastly different. Research is conducted by the school leaders withing the school community, and questions are posed and solutions are sought by the school leaders. In a district that promotes action research, superintendents encourage principals to reflect and look for ways that they can improve their schools.