In the field of education, staying updated with effective teaching strategies is crucial for education professionals. One approach that has gained significant recognition in recent years is action research. Action research is the systematic and reflective inquiry conducted in real-world educational settings to improve teaching strategies, methods and overall learning outcomes. It is an ongoing process that involves observing, collecting data, reflecting and refining teaching practices.
This cyclical process allows educators to actively engage in their own professional growth and development. The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) online Master of Science in Education (MSEd) in Curriculum and Instruction with Emphasis in Advanced Teaching Strategies program includes an Action Research: P-12 course that teaches students about action research and the methodologies involved.
What Is the Purpose of Action Research?
The primary purpose of action research in education is to identify specific challenges within the classroom and develop practical solutions based on evidence-based practices. By incorporating action research, educators can continuously improve their teaching methodology. It helps in enhancing student engagement, retention and overall achievement.
Why should educators use action research in education? The following are some uses of action research:
- Promoting evidence-based practices. Action research bridges the gap between theory and practice by grounding educational decisions in real-world experiences. Educators can make evidence-based decisions by collecting and analyzing data, leading to more effective teaching strategies and improved learning outcomes.
- Personalizing professional development. Action research empowers educators to design personalized development plans. By identifying areas of improvement and setting targeted goals, educators can tailor their professional growth to nurture their strengths and address their weaknesses.
- Engaging in critical reflection. Action research promotes critical thinking and self-reflection among educators. By continually analyzing their teaching methods and outcomes, educators can identify areas that require improvement and make necessary changes. This reflective practice fosters a culture of continuous professional growth, leading to enhanced teaching efficacy.
Once educators understand the importance of action research, they must also implement it. The National Head Start Association lists the following as steps for action research:
- Identify a topic
- Develop a plan
- Collect data
- Analyze and interpret data
- Carry out an action plan to improve your practice
Strategies to Create Positive Change
Schools can easily fall into the trap of focusing solely on deficiencies and shortcomings. As noted in an Edutopia article, the teachers at the Siena School in Silver Spring, Maryland, employed an approach demonstrating the importance of redirecting their attention toward growth areas and fostering a collaborative culture in their school. They recommend focusing on three key strategies that brought about positive changes:
- Reframing the narrative. Educators focused on areas of growth rather than on declining scores. They shifted their focus to understanding the existing teaching methods and gathered accurate feedback on student performance. This allowed teachers to analyze current practices and identify innovative ways to improve student outcomes.
- Cultivating a culture of inquiry. The Siena School recognized the power of inquiry in driving improvement and established a culture that encourages teachers to ask questions, conduct research and share their findings with colleagues. This helped them take ownership of their learning journey and enhance their teaching practices.
- Building structures for teacher collaboration. Collaboration among teachers was vital for the Siena School’s success. Staff meetings were transformed into opportunities for shared planning and problem-solving, nurturing a sense of camaraderie amongst the team.
The SIUE Approach: Action Research in the Online Curriculum and Instruction Program
The SIUE online MSEd in Curriculum and Instruction – Advanced Teaching Strategies program provides graduates with the essential skills to conduct and apply action research.
The program’s specialized course, Action Research: P-12, provides students with a comprehensive understanding of action research methodologies, research ethics, academic research and writing, data collection tools, project planning and analysis techniques. By actively engaging in action research throughout their coursework, graduates can address challenges in their classrooms effectively.
Action research in education is a valuable tool that empowers educators to proactively improve their teaching strategies. By integrating action research into their practice, educators can enhance student outcomes and foster a culture of continuous improvement. SIUE’s online MSEd in Curriculum and Instruction – Advanced Teaching Strategies program provides graduates with the knowledge and skills to engage in action research, enabling them to make informed decisions and contribute to the advancement of education.
Learn more about SIUE’s online Master of Science in Education in Curriculum and Instruction with Emphasis in Advanced Teaching Strategies program.
