What Have I Learned About Action Research and How I Can Use It?

I have learned a lot about Action Research and what it entails in an educational setting through my campus meetings and this course.  I felt overwhelmed with the thought of conducting a research project because I have been out of school for some time.  When I attended my first ALT team meeting, I took notes and wrote a lot of question marks next to certain words, phrases, and acronyms because I did not understand the topic at the time. Later I realized how important this research would benefit our campus. Once I read the recommended literature, I recognized that our campus is in the beginning stages of an Action Research Program. I have always analyzed data through my student’s class work and assessments, but I often use it for pointing out their strengths and weaknesses.  I knew there was I reason behind keeping data, but I never knew what to do with it after I found out the student’s present level of performance.  I do change my teaching methods when I recognize my students are not grasping the concept, but I never taken the time to document the methods that helped my students. I am familiar with the traditional educational research which sometimes does not work for every student. I never knew there is a title for this type of campus improvement plan.  I am excited about working on something like this to improve our student’s education and improve our teaching strategies. This is the first time in a while that our staff is enthusiastic about working together as a team to help students who are struggling to understand the content and certain concepts.

                I will be able to use this is in my classroom. I teach all content areas in middle school at a modified level and I have not always had the time to collaborate with our teachers. This will be a great opportunity for me to learn from other teachers on and off campus. I will  also be able to receive feedback on my progress and/or need for improvements.  It will help improve student scores on assessments, parent involvement, and student participation.