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​Action Research

The study of action is the process that educators collect information to facilitate teaching and learning(Mertler, 2017). According to certain models, educators use a variety of research methods and technology tools to solve practical problems in education as the primary goal of a research model.

video resourse: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ov3F3pdhNkk&t=11s

​Traditional Research VS Action Research

Action research is a research process investigating a problem, especially in teaching and learning. Traditional research used a lot for quantitative research to reach a definite conclusion. Action research more educators encounter practical problems in their teaching activities and conduct surveys to solve them. In traditional research，the knowledge in teaching and learning is developed outside schools or not developed by educators.
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Action Research

Traditional Research

Quantitative vs Qualitative vs Mix-methods

  • A process to inprove education
  • Start with a question or problem
  • Done by teachers
  • Collaborative
  • Practical and relevant
  • ​Brings about change
  • Provides concrete evidence
  • Conducted by researcher
  • Works on a hypothesis
  • Has a definite conclusion
  • ​No implementation needed

 Quantitative Research

Using deductive approach, analyze with numerical data such as surveys, questionnaires, test scores, check lists, etc. to test or reject the hypotheses generated from a specific theory. (Mertler, 2014)

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Qualitative Research

Utilizing inductive approach, deal with narrative data, such as observations, interviews, journals, open ended questions, etc. to generate conclusions. (Mertler, 2014)

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Sample work & Reflection

During the course ETEC 543, I gradually developed a clear understanding of action research. Taking our group's action research as an example, we identify topic, refer to relevant literature, collect and analyze data, then develop an action plan, and finally we have the result and reflection. We follow the steps of action research, learning what action research is in practice, and how to conduct action research.

Reference

Mertler, C. A., (2014). Overview of the action research process. Action Research Improving Schools and Empowering

         Educators (4th ed., pp. 37). Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications, Inc.

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Mertler, C. A. (2017). Action research: improving schools and empowering educators. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications.

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