Action research is a systematic process for improving practices through practitioner-led research. It was coined by Kurt Lewin in 1944 and involves planning an intervention, implementing it, observing the results, and reflecting to improve future actions. There are two main types: participatory action research involves community members collectively identifying and addressing problems, while practical action research involves a practitioner working with a facilitator to address an identified issue. The goal is to improve the quality of organizations and performance through rigorous, collaborative inquiry.