Action Research: Origins and Applications

Paper Summary:

The paper discusses the subject of action research, a term that is used to describe a continuum of activities that focus on research, planning, theorizing, learning and development, and involves a continuous process of research and learning in the researcher's long-term relationship with a problem. This paper reviews the action research and the different cultures of inquiry. An examination of the origins of action research is followed by a discussion concerning how action research fits with the educational system. An analysis of the role action research has played in educational history and the role of teachers is followed by a summary of the research and salient findings in the conclusion.

Outline:
Review and Discussion
Types of Action Research
Goals and Contributions of Action Research
Action Research Steps
Data Collection Methods for Action Researchers
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Although the framework illustrated in Figure 1 above is clear and consistent with basic action research and experiential learning premises, is remains inadequate to specifically address the complex context and requirements of contemporary educational research by distinguishing experiment design and planning from action and data collection (McPherson & Nunes, 2004). These authors maintain that these research stages should be separated from data analysis, interpretation and dissemination, and offer an eight-stage framework developed by Cohen, Manion and Morrison (2000) that provides a much better support for education researchers."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Armstrong, F. & Moore, M. (2004). Action research for inclusive education: Changing places, changing practice, changing minds. New York: RoutledgeFalmer.
• Atweh, B., Kemmis, S. & Weeks, P. (1998). Action research in practice: Partnership for social justice in education. London: Routledge.
• Auger, W. & Wideman, R. (2000). Using action research to open the door to life-long professional learning. Education, 121(1), 120.
• Baldwin, M., Diaz-Greenberg, R., Keating, J., & Thousand, J. (1998). A collaborative action research model for teacher preparation programs. Journal of Teacher Education, 49(5), 381.
• Buschman, L. (2001, December). Using student interviews to guide classroom instruction: An action research project. Teaching Children Mathematics, 8(4), 222.

More papers on Action Research: Origins and Applications:

• Term Paper # 140168 : "Some Thoughts About Action Research"
• Term Paper # 130019 : "Action Research"
• Term Paper # 130157 : "Action Research and the Social Sciences"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: