Action Research

1. CET7034:
Action Research
Module Overview

2. Module Overview
On completion of this module you will have explored the history and development of
Action Research and reviewed examples of current AR projects. You will have
developed a systematic understanding of the key theories, concepts, models and tools
related to action research, in particular those strands that relate to organisation
development and/or practitioner development.
You will have identified existing practice in your workplace context that you wish to
explore further, and considered social and ethical challenges in planning change
projects. You will have begun to develop practical skills in planning and applying
Action Research approaches and methods. You will consider generic issues arising
from the practitioner enquiry process, and consider how these apply in your own
enquiry context and proposed project.
Your study on this module will support your planning of a small-scale Action Research
project in your own workplace.

3. Subject Specific
and General Learning Outcomes
• S1. Demonstrate a systematic understanding of key theories, concepts,
models and tools related to action research
• S2. Critically evaluate and apply key concepts, models and techniques
associated with Action Research approaches to prioritise, influence and
achieve sustainable change pertinent to your organisation’s needs.
• G1. Independently seek out knowledge relevant to your own work-based learning
and form well-reasoned judgements about it.
• G2. Critically analyse, evaluate and synthesise complex, and possibly conflicting
ideas and information from a range of sources.
• G3. Critically reflect on your own learning and practice to identify, justify and take
action to meet your development needs.
• G4. Communicate complex ideas effectively using a range of media to both specialist
and non-specialist audiences in a way which is clear and persuasive.

4. Action Research
Module Assignment
• Plan an action research project that will address a relevant change
requirement for your organisation, or your professional practice.
• You will submit an Action Research Plan (2000 words equivalent) on the
Proforma provided, together with supporting appendices, comprising:
– Brief background context and goals of your proposed AR project
– Your planned approach to this project, demonstrating your knowledge
and critical understanding of key theories, concepts, models and tools
related to action research methodologies.
– Plan and samples/pilots of methods
– Plan for data analysis
– Plan for taking your project forward in your organisation eg
timeline/Gantt chart, stakeholder analysis, communications plan, risk
analysis etc.
– See your module site for assessment submission date.

5. References
• Burke & Litwin, ‘A Causal Model of Organisation Performance and Change’, Journal of
Management, Vol 18, No 3 (1992), pp 523–545.
• Coghlan, D. & Brannick, T. (2001) Doing Action Research in Your Own Organisation. London:
Sage Publications, Ltd.
• Coghlan, D. (2001). Insider action research projects: Implications for practising
managers. Management Learning, 32(1), 49-60.
• Kemmis, S.; Mctaggart, R. (1988). The action research planner. Victoria: Deakin University
Press.
• Lewin, K. (1948) Resolving social conflicts; selected papers on group dynamics. Gertrude W.
Lewin (ed.). New York: Harper & Row, 1948.
• McNiff, J. (2010) Action Research for Professional Development: Concise advice for new and
experienced action researchers (2nd edition). Bodmin and King’s Lynn: MPG Books Group.
• Susman, G.I. "Action Research: A Sociotechnical systems perspective," in Beyond Method:
Strategies for Social Science Research, G. Morgan (ed.), Sage Publications, London, 1983