I feel from what I have discovered thus far that action research is a great way to do research. This form of research allows the researcher to become part of the project. Instead of studying other people's findings and trying to gleen what you can from it, in action research the process drives the research. That is not to say it is subjective. Action research is data driven, but there is a more human element to the results. Through the researcher's observations, participant surveys, and evaluations the subject of the research is more pliable. Action research can change a principal's perspective. Everything in the school could possibly become an area of study. The principal becomes more focused on the process and the factors that influence the process and that particular outcome, than with just the results. For instance, the principal researcher can personally research the curriculum being used in his school by analyzing students' performances, seeing how it is being applied in classroom and gathering teachers' input and research if the curriculum is meeting the needs of the students or if there are other factors that are influencing students' outcomes.
In my research project the action research model will be very beneficial. I will be able to work with parents in our community to develop questions for the parent survey and have their perspective concerning the importance of parental involvement in the child's educational process. It will be interesting to see if there is any real correlation between a student's success and the level of parental participation or involvement in their child's educational process. Using action research I wiil be able to see how my school compares with studies that have been done over this topic. I look forward to discussing the results of this study with my colleagues and my site supervisor. This is another benefit of this type of research. It naturally lends itself to professional development with everyone involved. I believe that I will benefit from the research, but I also feel my colleagues will benefit,too just in my sharing the results of the study.
The blogging process is such a great way to share ideas and suggestions. You can share ideas and thoughts with other people who have the same goals and values as you, but may offer another perspective over the topic.
