What Action Research Really Is.

Action Research  is defined by Schmuck (1997) as a planned inquiry in search of information and knowledge.  Ringer (2007) says,"this process validates teachers' effective practices in the classroom."   
My understanding of Action Research is a process in which a person observes and researches a particular area of interest or need.  In my case it will the education of students who have difficulty learning my subject area of Chemistry.  They then proceed to formulate a plan in which they can use the research to improve or better a problem area.

There are four steps in action research.  First is identifying a classroom learning problem. Second developing and implementing an action research plan.  Third collecting and analyzing data and last evaluating and sharing results.  (Calhoon, 1994; Sagor, 2000)

I have a deep desire to better all our school's students understanding of science.  Unfortunately, many students feel this subject is hard to understand so they come to me thinking they won't be able to excel in this area.  Each student has a particular style of learning.  Some may be able to learn the subject by reading and studying the textbook.  Others do well by listening in class and completing homework assignments.  However there will always be a few students who don't have the math skills  or the reasoning ability to do well.  These students take a little extra effort to understand.  I would like to implement new technology in the way of virtual laboratory experiments and online study resources to see if the visual experience can help our students understand science better.

Schmuck, R.A. (1997).  Practical action research for change.  Arlington Heights, IL; IRI Skylight Training and Publishing, Inc. 

Ringer, Marjorie C. (2007).  Action Research an Effective Instructional Leadership Skill for Future Public School Leaders.  East Carolina University, Greenville, NC; AASA Journal of Scholarship and Practice.

Calhoun, E.F. (1994).  How to use action research in the self-renewing school.  Alexandria, VA; Association for Superviision and Curriculum Development.

Sagor, R. (2000).  Guiding school improvement with action research. Alexandria, VA; Association for Superviision and Curriculum Development.