Action Planning Template

Action Research Topic - What kind of impact the availability of a “safe” District web 2.0 environment has on student achievement.

It was challenging to generate three topics that I might want to pursue using action research; after discussing the topics with my site supervisor I became aware of potential politics within the district that I was not aware of before. It was not my intention to stir the pot with my topic choices. I am glad we decided on a tech initiative that is within our realm of control. I am excited to finish the plan for possible implementation of this research topic.

Blogging –

There are several ways a blog can be used by educational leaders. A blog can help to develop collaboration and support. It can allow those who have never met to collaborate and discuss best practices. It can provide a space in which to contribute ideas, solutions or even questions. “Blogging also gives us an opportunity to reflect on our practice so that we become more intentional about what we do on a day to day basis.” (Poling & Borell)

Action Research -

This topic to me at first was very confusing. I found it difficult to focus on the information being presented in the lecture. I had to stop the video and listen to sections of it several times. As I read the Dana text it started to fall into place. I realized maybe I should have started with that first. Putting into practice my own inquiry on this topic I found myself trying to determine the relationship between action research and the practice of continuous improvement. I see many similarities. Our district has continuous improvement at it’s heart. Although my understanding of this topic and how it relates to continuous improvement is still evolving here is what I have come to learn about action research.

Dana talks about the term “research” and how it can carry a “baggage prone” connotation. I agree with this. As Dana, I prefer the term inquiry over research and so will choose administrative inquiry as I continue. Administrative inquiry is the, “systematic, intentional study of one’s own professional practice.” (Dana, 2009) Reflection is also a big part of the process. The individual poses a question or a “wondering”, data is collected and analyzed and relevant literature is read. This provides an opportunity to develop new understandings and ultimately this can lead to making changes in ones practice. (Dana, 2009) “The steps in action research include identifying a classroom learning problem, developing and implementing an action research plan, collecting and analyzing data, and evaluating and sharing results (Calhoun, 1994; Sagor, 2000).” “Administrator inquiry becomes a powerful vehicle for learning and reform.” (Dana, 2009)