This week in ED 5301 I learned the structure of an action research project.  In the readings and through the assignments, I was able to create my own.  I became aware of the nine passions that drive the journey of action research and how they all intertwine to create great action research questions.  I was also able observe videos of leaders and their knowledge and how they conduct action research projects at their campus.  This week gave me great insight on what I must accomplish as a future leader.

Administrative inquiry is a process used by an administrator in order to solve a problem or make a change based on the information acquired during the inquiry.  It can be effective because certain guidelines are implemented and its primary focus is on improving student performance.  The steps of the process include having a shared vision, self-reflection, analyzing the data, creating a plan of action, having a maintenance plan, and the continuation of reflection.

Action research differs from traditional educational research in that while traditional research focuses on the educator’s practice, the action research focuses on social justice.  Also, the traditional educational research obtains information from outsiders, while administrative inquiry researches their official campus.  It is catered to the school and is more beneficial.  The inquiry will more likely be implemented and be successful.

 

One example of action research is the example from the Dana textbook.  The inquiry in this case dealt with the improvement of reading for the lowest-quartile students.  Another example would be the fostering of relationships between school officers and the principals.  These principals made mandates and different political practice to suit the school.  The third example is the use of PLCs to improve achievement on standardized tests because of NCLB.  A group of professionals came together to find the most effective method in the poverty stricken areas of Colorado.

Some benefits of administrative inquiry include collaboration with other administrators, leading the school by example, which in turn will cause the school to become more involved, and to become more successful.