What I have learned about action research

Through the lecture and the assigned readings, I have learned exactly what action research is and the benefits of using this inquiry process. Action research is a process used to make improvements in the school system to benefit student accomplishment. Action research is very useful because it allows school personnel to solve a problem that is specific to their students or campus. I have been to several professional development sessions where I have thought, "These strategies will never work for my students." Action research avoids this pitfall by allowing school personnel to work together to find strategies that will improve student achievement for their specific group of students. The school community works together to improve their educational environment.
Action research is also useful in forming and utilizing PLCs and encouraging collegial relationships. The administrator works with teachers on campus or other administrators to help in the process of solving the problem or developing the improvement plan. This builds relationships among the staff and creates a positive school culture. Collaboration through action research may also lead to collaboration during other activities.
Action research and administrator inquiry will also lead to the development of stronger educational leaders. This is because the educational leader takes time to reflect on what they are doing to improve the school and which strategies are working and which ones are not. Personal reflection will help improve the skills of the educational leader because they are taking time to determine which of their professional skill areas are weak and formulate plans to improve those skills. Taking the time to reflect on which areas need to be improved and then researching ways to improve these areas is vital to continued school and personal improvement.