Action Research

Action research for administrators is about administrators not losing touch with what is actually going on in their school, learning community, or district. By first inquiring about current practices the administrator can gain a better understanding of what works and how to make improvements. The Administrator starts with open ended questions with the intention of investigating problems. The administrator has to schedule time to plan and do improvement. "The initial steps in the improvement process take time for self and group reflection” (Harris, 2010).

Action research practices can be used to improve schools and bring about change. Through inquiry and reflection you gain clarity about the problem that needs to be solved. Once data has been interpreted and there is clarity about the problem an action plan can be developed to make a change. Inquiry is a cylindrical process because once the action plan has been implemented and evaluated there may be a need for more reflection, clarification, and a new action plan. (Dana, 2009)


Dana, N.F. (2009). Leading with passion and knowledge: The principal as action researcher. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.
Harris, S., Edmonson, S., & Combs, J. (2009). Examing what we do to improve our schools: 9 steps from analysis to action. LArchmont, N.Y.: Eye on Education.