What I've learned about action research

I've learned that action research is very different from what you might think when you initially hear the word "research".  This word normally takes you back to Science class when you were assigned to research the chemical element silicon in 7th grade.  You may have checked out a book from the library or simply "googled it" now a days and wrote a two page paper on why it's classified as a metalloid and how many electrons surround it. 

Action research however is so much more hands on and is conducted by the teachers and administrators who care and are invested in finding the best practice.  Dana states that the process of action research is," articulating a wondering, collecting data to gain insights into the wondering, analyzing data, and making improvements in practice based on what was learned."  When following this process in school with all the uncertainties and moving parts, you really get the most accurate data possible and are able to adapt and formulate new wonderings as you constantly reflect on what is learned.  The use of inquiry is not necessarily a new approach in education, but using it as a leading tool in action research is certainly gaining momentum in education. 

As a future administrator I will definitely fit action research into my schedule.  I feel it is important to lead by example and to be the "head learner" in an educational setting.