Learning about Action Research

Action research is simply stated as a systemic approach to investigating a "wondering". This wondering can be anything that is occurring in an educational setting that could use improvement or just further study. Dana (2009) describes administrative inquiry as the process of a principal engaging in a systemic, intentional study of his/her own administrative practice and taking action for change based on what he/she learns as a result of inquiry. This systemic practice of inquiry involves posing questions, collecting data, analyzing data, reading literature, making changes based on new understandings, and sharing your findings with others. The ultimate goal of inquiry is school improvement.

Action research can be practiced by administrators and teachers alike, and there are numerous benefits to participating in this type of inquiry. One is that it increases the collegiality and peer support while reducing the isolation of administrators and teachers. Another benefit is the example of active life-long learning that can be set for teachers and students. Inquiry can also facilitate best practices on a campus, as well as encourage school improvement.

There are many ways that administrators or teachers can actively engage in action research. Action research can serve as professional development, or it can be facilitated through professional learning communities. Administrative inquiry can occur through university coursework, district meetings, or through campus leadership teams. These are some of the areas that action research can be used to focus on learning. As a future leader, I am learning the importance and the possibilities of practicing action reasearch as an administrator


Dana Fichman, Nancy (2009). leading with passion and knowledge; The principal as action researcher. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.