Action Research
Research by the teacher, for the teacher, in the classroom.
Fundamental Research
The University Scientist
- Goal: To discover new, universal theories and add to global knowledge (e.g., How does the human brain process language?).
- Scope: Broad and generalizable to all schools.
- Time: Takes years to complete.
Action Research
The Classroom Detective
- Goal: To solve an immediate, local problem in one specific classroom (e.g., Why are my 6th graders failing spelling tests?).
- Scope: Narrow. The findings only apply to that teacher's classroom.
- Time: Quick. Can be done in weeks or a semester.
🔄 2. The P-A-O-R Cycle
EXAM SEQUENCE
Action research is a continuous loop. Once you finish step 4, if the problem isn't solved, you start over at step 1. Memorize this sequence!
PLAN
ACT
OBSERVE
REFLECT
Plan: Identify the problem (Kids are failing math). Come up with a new strategy (Use blocks instead of formulas).
Act: Actually teach the lesson using the new blocks strategy.
Observe: Collect data. Did they pass the quiz this time? Are they more engaged?
Reflect: Did it work? If yes, keep doing it. If no, go back to Planning a different strategy.
The Name to Know: Stephen M. Corey
While Kurt Lewin coined the term "Action Research," it was Stephen Corey who applied it specifically to the field of Education to help teachers improve their own practices.
The Pedagogy "Teacher Rule"
Take ownership of classroom problems. If students are constantly fighting during recess, the teacher should use Action Research to systematically test different interventions (like organized games vs free play) to solve the issue locally.
Wait for a principal, external expert, or university researcher to come and solve their daily classroom management or learning issues. Teachers must be active problem solvers.