Relections of an Action Researcher

 

So it turns out that the "Let’s see what happens if I (fill in the blank)" experiments that I perform on my students in my classroom have a name and that name is Action Research. Who knew that all these years I was an Action Researcher. As a science teacher I have been referring to these experiments as my "science projects". I would propose a question, create an experiment, make observations, collect data, analyze that data and make a conclusion. If the results were not what I wanted I would either scrap the idea or make adjustments and retest.

The Action Research that I have performed in my class has ranged from seating arrangements to the implementation of different teaching methods. I have learned to put aside any fears or concerns about change in my class in order to find the best way to pass on information and to motivate my students.  Sometimes finding the best way to teach a topic means eliminating the bad ways.  Certain assignments that seemed like good ideas at the time had to be reevaluated and altered upon completion.  I am not afraid to do more Action Research by asking my students their thoughts on certain assignments or teaching techniques.  Their feedback means the most to me because they will benefit the most from the results.

Without Action Research,  growth cannot occur.  The unwillingness to accept the idea of “This is as good as it gets” is what will keep our education system moving forward.  I am always looking to improve on the methods that I use in class and Action Research plays a huge role in that progress.  In my class Action Research slays contentness and gives birth to educational evolution.  I am no stranger to Action Research.  I AM AN ACTION RESEARCHER!