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CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 8. Sharing and Reflecting. Craig A. Mertler SAGE Publications, 2012. Action Research: Improving Schools and Empowering Educators. Communicating the Results of Action Research.

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CHAPTER 8

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  1. CHAPTER 8 Sharing and Reflecting Craig A. Mertler SAGE Publications, 2012 Action Research: Improving Schools and Empowering Educators

  2. Communicating the Results ofAction Research • Gap between research conducted in education and (supposed) end users of that research • Problem with ‘converting’ research into practically-applied results in classrooms, etc. • Often, too technical and do not fit with ‘daily needs’ of a classroom teacher • Do not factor in the practical challenges of applying research findings • The teacher-researcher—and action research— become the missing link…

  3. Communicating the Results ofAction Research However, simply conducting classroom-based action research is not enough Results of action research must be shared (formally and informally) Facilitates the actual ‘bridging of the divide’ Provides teachers with a voice; research becomes an integral part of the instructional process The act of sharing results of action research is also a time to celebrate those findings and the process Helps to create a rewarding, satisfying professional experience

  4. Communicating the Results ofAction Research Sharing at the local level Numerous possible audiences: Colleagues Professional discussions; may be very informal Keep brief; use visual aids Highlight main aspects of your study District administration Members of school board, superintendent, assistant superintendents, directors, building-level administrators Can help avoid educational malpractice

  5. Communicating the Results ofAction Research Sharing within action research communities Action research community—professional learning community (PLC) made up of eductional professionals driven by a common goal of practicing reflective teaching to improve classroom instructional practice or other aspects of the educational process Key to improved student learning is continuous, job-embedded learning for educators Can be created within a building or district, or can include multiple districts (typically within small geographic area) Ideal for lending encouragement and support Can run the spectrum from informal to formal

  6. Communicating the Results ofAction Research Key characteristics of a PLC focused on action research: A shared mission, vision, values, and goals all focused on student learning; A collaborative culture; Collective inquiry into best practices and current reality; An action orientation, or learning by doing; A commitment to continuous improvement; and An orientation focused on results, and not on intentions.

  7. Communicating the Results ofAction Research Sharing at professional conferences Opportunity to share results, experience among much broader community of educators Additional dialogue, brainstorming, reflection Great opportunities for networking Conferences can be statewide, regional, or national Process of submitting a proposal, acceptance of the proposal, and presentation at the conference…

  8. Communicating the Results ofAction Research Sharing in academic journals Refereed journals… Potential to reach larger audiences Guidelines… Familiarize yourself with journal you are submitting to Use clear, reader-friendly writing style ‘Guide’ your readers through your study Include summary of methods used Find ways to keep your readers’ attention Process of submitting a manuscript, blind review, acceptance of the manuscript, and publishing the article…

  9. Communicating the Results ofAction Research Sharing in electronic formats Many opportunities for electronic dissemination exist Especially online formats Action research Web sites Electronic mailing lists Electronic journals Must be careful of quality of materials appearing on the Internet Many school districts have developed their own action research sites for dissemination of work from their educators

  10. Reflecting on the Results ofAction Research Reflection (once again!) Sharing, communicating, disseminating are yet another means of engaging in reflection on the action research process Opportunity to review what you’ve done and learned Another chance to introspectively examine your own educational practice Seize every opportunity to engage in reflective practice… critical to professional growth

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