Thoughts on Action Research

Action research or principal inquiry directly involves total input of professional leaders on campus. I would best describe the concept as being "for the people, of the people, and by the people."For resolutions to be made, it takes a joint effort from everyone; the principal must spear-head the process. As Dana (2009, p. 4, 5) eloquently points out, professional inquiry has major differences than the accepted way to research: "concepts of 'process-product research' (Shuman, 1986) and "limits practioners' roles in the research process." Action research has an advantageous role in major accomplishments of the school or district. This systematic process encourages the leader to depart from environments of isolation. Inquiry forces principals to interact with teachers, other leaders, and their supervisor conversing about the future of the campus and district. It can also develop a culture within the school. When the leader sets the great example of collaboration and resolution, the rest of the school will more than likely follow suit. I enjoyed the exercises analogy Dana (2009, p. 5) used in relation to making time for inquiry; we must make it into a routine to incorporate it into our daily practices. As educators, we know the challenges of developing a daily or weekly workout regimen. Attacking it like we do going to the gym will benefit in the long run. The important ingredient in making a habit into a routine is discipline.