Action Research

Action research refers to a group of people who collaborate together to solve a problem.  The group decides on certain action steps and puts them into effect, usually quickly.  There is a certain amount of trial and error involved because of the quickness of the action, but also allows for changes in the action steps to take place.  Action research should be based on scientific practices, so problem solving should take place in a systematic way and should be based on data.  This type of problem solving can be quite beneficial in the educational system.  Obviously in a large organization such as an educational system, there are many problems that arise.  Many of these problems are outside the expertise and knowledge of any one individual.  This is where an action research team can be of value.  The group can look at the problem by identifying what the related data says about the problem, and then produce a set of action steps to address the problem.  Again, one of the benefits to this method of problem solving is quickness, and the ability to make changes while the action steps are being carried out.  Reflection should always be built into the process to analyze if the solution is working and if changes need to be made.  Action research can be of great benefit to any leader in any organization.