Action research is a reflective process aimed at systematically studying problems in educational practice to identify solutions and drive improvements. It involves teachers collaboratively examining their own practices, developing research plans to collect and analyze both qualitative and quantitative data on identified issues, and using the findings to create and implement action plans. The goal is to bridge the gap between theory and practice by directly observing real problems in the classroom and acknowledging teachers' daily needs. Action research enhances professional growth, builds positive relationships, and empowers teachers by giving them ownership over the development of best practices.

1. ACTION RESEARCHThis presentation looks at:PurposeValueMethodologyOf Action research.

2. Action research is ........“A reflective process of progressive problem solving” (Action research,2009).

3. Systematic studies of children whilst in school to help aid more efficient teaching and address problems.(McDevitt & Ormond, 2010).Problem Solving – A quest for knowledge

4. How do we define Action Research?“A process in which participants examine their own educational practice systematically and carefully” (Ferrance, 2009).

5. A collaborative activity among teachers searching for solutions and improvements to identified problem areas. (Ferrance, 2009).Components of Action ResearchThe 5 C’S..Commitment

6. Collaboration

7. Concern

8. Consideration

9. Change, (Borgia & Schuler, 1997).The value of Action Research.Bridges the gap between theory and practice

10. Creates more positive relationships within the classroom

11. Enhances teachers professional growth and development

12. Facilitates teacher empowermentAction research bridges the gap between theory and practice through:Direct observation

13. Study of a real problem or situation.

14. Acknowledgement of teachers daily needsWhy is it that theories do not always help establish best practice?Often they do not directly relate to classroom experience

15. May not meet daily needs/time constraints

16. Tends to focus on hypothetical situationsAction research Creates more positive relationships within the classroom by;Identifying and solving problems

17. Showing an interest in individual learning

18. Creating a more caring atmosphere

19. Improving practice to encourage more productive learningEnhancing teachers professional growth and development Creates greater awareness

20. Improves knowledge and skills specific to classroom practice

21. Encourages development of new ideas.

22. Expansion of knowledge

23. Gives teachers ownership of their professionAction research helps teachers become empowered! Make their own decisions about what is needed in the classroom

24. Have control over development of best practice

25. Improve practice, instilling a sense of power so positive changes can be made. Methodology of Action Research

26. Develop Research PlanQualitative

27. Quantitative

28. Involvement

29. Permission

30. Training

31. Sensitivity

32. ConfidentialityData CollectionRelevance

33. Questionnaires

34. Interviews

35. Observations

36. Achievement Tests

37. Children’s Journals

38. Existing Records

39. Validity and ReliabilityAnalyse and Interpret DataReduction of data

40. Relate to Research Question

41. Sort, Sift, Discard, CatalogueQuantitative / Qualitative

42. Systematic search for Categories, Patterns, Themes Develop an Action PlanApplication of plan – individual / collaborativeDefined structure

43. Implement Strategies and Interventions carefully

44. Document plan and collect dataReflecting, Reviewing & CommunicatingCritical and Systematic

45. Determine effectiveness of Action Plan

46. Ask questions

47. Share and Communicate Results