In this week's lectures and readings, I have gained new insights regarding the nine areas of action research listed in the Dana (2009) text. I have narrowed my inquiry topic and am making progress toward developing a plan with my site-supervisor. The topic I have chosen is: How can we better train teachers and persuade them to embrace technology in the classroom? 

ACTION RESEARCH

Action research is an important tool for educators to use in problem solving and to improve teaching and learning. It is an informal process that may be carried out collaboratively in various educational settings. Ringler (2007) provides a succinct four step process:

Define an issue to study

Review the professional literature

Take action

Use and share results

(Ringler, 2007, p. 30)

For the purposes of our EDLD 5301 course, the following, more detailed process will be carried out:

Set the foundation

Analyze data

Develop deeper understanding

Engage in self-reflection

Explore programmatic patterns

Determine direction

Take action for school improvement

Sustain improvement

(Resources, 2012)

Some of the benefits of action research are escaping isolation, becoming a role model, encouraging best practices, and slowing down the busy pace that administrators often feel. (Dana, 2009)

I hope to be able to use action research to improve my school’s utilization of technology in the classroom as documented in the School Technology and Readiness (STaR) chart. Through collaborative inquiry, perhaps we can discover what the problems and concerns are, move toward a solution, and share our findings with the broader educational community and legislators.

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References

Dana, N. F. (2009). Leading with passion and knowledge:  The principal as action researcher. Thousand Oaks, CA:  Corwin.

Resources, EDLD 5301 (2012).  Action research project process overview.  Beaumont, TX:  Lamar University.

Ringler, M. (2007). Action research: an effective instructional leadership skill for future public school leaders. American Association of School Administrators Journal of Scholarship and Practice, 4 (1), 27-42.

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How Educational Leaders Might Use Blogs

Educational leaders might use blogs to keep stakeholders informed of current events, successes, and concerns within the district. It could be like a living newsletter, going out daily, weekly or as needed. In some cases, blog sites are blocked by district servers and may require special permission to be effectively utilized. When used appropriately, the immediate feedback on various issues could prove an invaluable resource to leaders and stakeholders alike.