Action research (AR) can be thought of as a process through which an educator intentionally and systematically examines his or her philosophies and practices and then takes action based on what is learned. To me, AR is completely centered around the need for change or improvement of methods and practices. Look, none of us have it all figured out. No matter how skilled and experienced we are as teachers or administrators, there is always room (and need) for growth. And AR is a highly effective means by which to bring about change and growth, both personally and professionally. AR is carried out by posing questions about current methods or practices, gathering and analyzing data, making changes based on enlightenment gained, and then sharing the results with others.
As a second-year teacher aspiring to be a principal, I see AR as a critical piece of my development. I have got to condition myself to this process of questioning everything that I do to determine if there is a way I can do it better. Then as I apply this principle to myself, I can begin to understand how to apply it to the bigger picture of my campus and entire school district. I know it won’t be easy. This process takes time, which is the most precious of all resources to an educator. But there are no shortcuts on the road to success and the sooner I can develop this habit, the more dividends it will pay in the end. So I hope you will join me on my quest to know myself better and that we can help each other along this journey toward becoming principals!
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