In this
class, we learned about the Action Research process. Action research is the
process of investigating a context specific topic with the intent of possibly
bringing about change. In Chapter Two of her book Dana (2009) lists the 9
passions that can lead to inquiry in a school. I chose to focus on passion two
curriculum development when I created my wondering. I wanted to explore how
incorporating technology into our curriculum could improve student learning and
meet our district’s 2020 Vision.
The 8
Steps to Improve an Organization laid out by Harris, Edmonson and Combs (2010)
really helped me define the process and gave me a direction to begin and
develop my action research plan. The 8 steps are: Setting
the Foundation, Analyzing Data, Developing Deeper Understanding, Engaging in
Self Reflection, Exploring Patterns, Determining Direction, Taking Action and Sustaining
Improvement. By following these steps, I will be able to keep my research
focused and on point. I also liked that this outline includes sustaining
improvement. I think this step is sometimes forgotten. Putting programs in
place to ensure the continued growth of any changes we begin will be a part of
my plan.
In the Dana text (2009), we read about the
different forms of data analysis. I really appreciated the chapter on data
analysis because in my district we are so focused on quantitative data analysis
that I needed to be reminded that data analysis can take many forms. After
reading the chapter, I was able to incorporate many different forms of data
analysis in my action research plan including field notes, student work
samples, surveys and literature. I have already conducted the parent home
technology survey and had sixty percent of our families return the survey. The
results have been interesting and I am anxious to explore my wondering further
to see what change the results will bring.
Due to the culture in my school when
trying to implement any new initiatives, I think conducting a force field
analysis (Harris et al, 2010) of the driving forces and resisting forces will
help me understand best how to implement any possible changes. In the Dana text
(2009), the book also discusses how when a principal models the questioning of
their own practice that it eventually will become the practice of the whole
school. Because the teachers in our school are not often reflective of their
own practices, I want to make my modeling this behavior a priority. I would
really love to be a force for changing the reflective nature of our building.
Finally, I found the discussion boards to
be very useful in this class. When I mentioned that I might possibly
investigate writing grants to increase the amount of technology in our school,
many of my classmates gave me suggestions of corporations to look into that
offer grants for technology. Another classmate had a great idea of a way to
promote technology innovation in the classroom considering how resistant the
teachers in my building are to trying new things. I truly appreciate and will
use their ideas.
This class has provided me with an
excellent format to research a plan to incorporate more technology into our
curriculum thus meeting our school district’s 2020 Vision. I am very excited
about the impact that my research could have on my school.
