Action Research Plan

            When I started this class I had no idea what “Action Research” was or what it entailed.   I learned that it is the administrator’s ability to look at the job at hand, study what is happening, collect data that would support change and take action that results in change.   It is true that administrators get wrapped up in the staggering demands of their job, such as a fight during lunch, calming an upset parent, a power failure, leaky roof, etc. that sometimes they forget what their main focus should be.   Administrators can use action research to gain deeper insights into their practice as administrators and their leadership role in school improvement efforts.  Engaging in action research allows administrators to study and analyze numerous issues or concerns within the school, study the data, make the change where necessary and then implement the change.  

            By using action research, I can focus on a current problem, gather data on the issue and make changes based on the results of my findings.  I know I can definitely use this in regards to technology because I would use my findings in making good conscious decisions about our future with technology.  Since technology is constantly changing and improving I feel it needs to be guided and monitored correctly.

            I think blogs are perfect for educators to use whether they are teachers or administrators.  Our previous principal at our campus communicated to students and parents through his blog.  He would let them know if he was at a track meet for example or he would ask questions such as would students be interested in paying $5 to use their phone before/after school or during lunch.  Both parents and students would comment and provide feedback if needed.  Teachers and students could use blogs to share work, class notes and even pictures online (they could change the settings for only their students to view the blog).  Teachers can even use their blogs to stay connected to their parents and the rest of the school.  Teachers can update parents about their children’s progress, keep them updated on future events, share a class newsletter, projects, etc.  Again, parents and students can also comment on the blogs as needed.  I have blogged with my students in the past and we all thoroughly enjoyed the experience.  It was ongoing communication 24/7 for all of us.  Blogs definitely help increase communication between educators, students and parents. 

References:

Dana Fichman, Nancy (2009). Leading with passion and knowledge: The principal as action researcher. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.