Class in Review

It has been twenty years since I actually did any type of research. This entire class was a topic of new learning. I never knew that action research even existed. At the beginning of the class I was a little intimidated by the whole process. However, after diving in and discovering the benefits to action research compared to traditional research I now have a new appreciation for research. I find that action research is more structured than traditional research and I now feel it will become a part of my professional growth.

I feel that there are many things in this course that will help me in the future. I will discuss three. The first would be the creation of a blog.  I always knew the benefit of using a blog but was never aware of how to create a blog.  Now I will be able to setup blogs for different reasons and hopefully be able to better myself as an educator.  Second, the assignment which involved completing the research plan template was very instrumental in showing me the importance of planning.  Before the assignment I was not sure how I would be able to complete the research.  After the assignment I now feel very confident that I have prepared myself through planning allowing for success.  Thirdly,  the reading assignments which cover all the different aspects of action research has allowed me the opportunity to insure that all bases are covered when not only completing the research but also making sure that the cycle of action research is continued to hopefully improve the student learning on my campus and in my district.

Tools which have been very helpful in this class obviously must start with the discussion board.  Having the ability to read what other colleagues are considering and also to gain their opinions on my topic is very beneficial to my success.  The blog is another tool which I do plan on continuing the use of and possibly expanding its role to better improve my action research efforts.

Again, this course has allowed me to put at ease any fears I had concerning research.  I cannot help but feel that all educators would benefit from this course whether as a class or as a professional development course.  I will now go to teacher inservice this next week as we prepare for a new school year with something to share with my colleagues and hopefully make my school more effective and efficient in regards to student learning.