Task: Write a description of what you
have learned about action research and how you might be able to use it. This description should be at least 200 words.
Action research is the "intentional study" of a particular practice that can ultimately lead to the development of positive change. Unlike traditional educational research, which relies on experts in a certain field, individuals who initiate action research obtain relevant and timely data pertaining to a certain subject. Since each challenge is individualized to specific circumstances, inquiry can be a helpful tool in determining best practices. And, by using action research, administrators and teachers possess the ability to bring about positive change in their schools.
As a teacher, I can use action research in my own classroom and in the way I work with my colleagues. For example, when trying to determine whether or not my students have mastered a certain skill, I can rely on inquiry to gather information. Data analysis can be helpful in gauging my students' strengths and weaknesses. In addition, students' feedback regarding their work can determine whether or not I am accommodating their learning styles. In the end, by using action research, I can alter my teaching style to fit the needs of my students. When meeting with my colleagues, action research can be beneficial through data analysis, lesson planning, teacher feedback, and discussions of best practices. In the process, collegial relationships can be built, which will only benefit students. It is a win-win situation.
With the use of action research, administrators and teachers can be proactive in developing world-class schools that help students to become productive members of society. Isn't that the goal of the educational system?
Task: Write an analysis of how educational leaders
might use blogs--25 words or more are recommended.
Educators can use blogs in many ways. To begin with, administrators and teachers may create blogs to share ideas with one another. Different blogs can be created regarding different issues in the school. For example, an administrator may create a blog for teachers to post ideas regarding how to best accommodate students who are visual learners. Or, a teacher may create a blog where his/her colleagues can offer feedback on how to use data to increase test scores. Through this collaboration, educators can share ideas that have the potential to bring about personal and professional growth for all involved.
Educators can also create blogs for their students. For example, an English teacher may create a blog for each of her classes. That way, her students can post questions about homework assignments or tutor each other on information that was presented in class.This additional venue for learning will engage the students and motivate them to be successful. Students will appreciate the use of technology in helping them to be 21st century learners.
As I have posted on the discussion board, I am also interested in ways to better writing on my campus. My current idea focuses on writing across the curriculum and encouraging all teachers to develop a writing plan that brings together English TEKS and implements those in other classrooms. It would be more beneficial for other content areas to be able to evaluate writing based on how students will be evaluated on STARR. Currently, our campus pushes writing but there is a disconnect as to how that writing is graded. My idea is to improve that consistency and thus build a bridge across our campus to bring up those writing scores. I look forward to hearing about your ideas and possibly using some of them on my own campus.
ReplyDeleteI loved how you brought the idea of action research into what we already do daily in our classrooms. You are right, we look at data when a student is falling behind to see where that gap is. I agree that a blog is a great way to interact with students in a "flipped classroom" model. Outside of school it is a great way to connect with students and create a great school relationship. I'll be keeping up with your blog as you explore your action research study!
ReplyDeleteI agree. Action research is a great instructional tool that can help you alter your teaching styles to fit students needs. It will give you factual data that is needed in order to make the correct changes.
ReplyDeleteI love the idea of "teamwork" that action research gives. You stated, "When meeting with my colleagues, action research can be beneficial through data analysis, lesson planning, teacher feedback, and discussions of best practices" That is so true. It gives everyone a chance to participate and bring their ideas to the table. It is also full of moving forward in a positive way. Great post!
ReplyDeleteI really like the idea of creating a blog to use with students. What a great way to get them college ready because, as we can all attest, it is a necessary skill in college though it is not usually included as part of the high school curriculum. This would be a positive and appropriate way to communicate with students and encourage them to be in charge of their own learning. I know many districts are toying with the flipped classroom model; we haven't figured it out too much in my neck of the woods because we are seriously in the woods and away from quality internet connections. However, with nearly every student holding a smart phone in his or her hand, the flipped classroom idea is bound to take of sooner rather than later. If you give this a try in your classroom soon, please let me know how it goes.
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