Action Research

In reading the book by Nancy Fichtman Dana titled "Leading with Passion and Knowledge" I have discovered a new type of research called action research. This type of research is very empowering. Action research as Dana describes in her book entales the practitioner as a story teller and the researcher that provides insight. The process if a cyclical process with the source of question as the principal. The research questin is focused on providing insight into an administrator's own practice in an effort to make change and improve the school. The administrator asks in what ways can he/she help facilitate the professional growth of the teaachers in hte campus through engagement in action research.
There are four distinct forms that action research can be placed into context according to Dana. The forms are through unvisersity cousework, superintende or district meetings, leadership teams and also through proffessional learning communities.
There are many benefits in implementing action research at the schools. By far this process has demonstrated to be the most empowering and effective process to change instruction and improve instruction and student learning. Action process allows for communities to learn from one another and become more supportive of each other and their various roles.
In my opinion action role is a much needed process for all schools to update and attempt to provide an adequate representation of what should be a campus reflective of its current community and its needs.