What have I learned about action research. How can I use it.

Action research is a method of professional development for the use of self-discovery. This is a powerful tool to use when posing questions, collecting data, analyzing data, and finding a solution to the initial questions. 

Action research in the field of education is a departure from traditional methods of research. Research is starting to become something that is done from an insider point of view. Previously, research was done by an individual who knew very little about specific schools - it was one size fits all. The knowledge gained from the research would be presented to the administrators who were expected to make a change based on the new information. This would be passed down to school leaders who would take what they were given from the research and try to make accommodations for their schools and students. Action research allows the administration to see for themselves what works for their schools and their students.  Even within a district there are many schools with various differences. Traditional research does not lend itself to addressing the specific needs of these different schools.  Action research provides specific and timely feedback. Knowledge gained through action research helps stakeholders at every level from the upper administration down to the students.

I can use action research to better myself as an educator, grow from my experiences, and learn from others.