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21 Action Research Examples (In Education)

21 Action Research Examples (In Education)

Dave Cornell (PhD)

Dr. Cornell has worked in education for more than 20 years. His work has involved designing teacher certification for Trinity College in London and in-service training for state governments in the United States. He has trained kindergarten teachers in 8 countries and helped businessmen and women open baby centers and kindergartens in 3 countries.

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21 Action Research Examples (In Education)

Chris Drew (PhD)

This article was peer-reviewed and edited by Chris Drew (PhD). The review process on Helpful Professor involves having a PhD level expert fact check, edit, and contribute to articles. Reviewers ensure all content reflects expert academic consensus and is backed up with reference to academic studies. Dr. Drew has published over 20 academic articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education and holds a PhD in Education from ACU.

example action research questions

Action research is an example of qualitative research . It refers to a wide range of evaluative or investigative methods designed to analyze professional practices and take action for improvement.

Commonly used in education, those practices could be related to instructional methods, classroom practices, or school organizational matters.

The creation of action research is attributed to Kurt Lewin , a German-American psychologist also considered to be the father of social psychology.

Gillis and Jackson (2002) offer a very concise definition of action research: “systematic collection and analysis of data for the purpose of taking action and making change” (p.264).

The methods of action research in education include:

  • conducting in-class observations
  • taking field notes
  • surveying or interviewing teachers, administrators, or parents
  • using audio and video recordings.

The goal is to identify problematic issues, test possible solutions, or simply carry-out continuous improvement.

There are several steps in action research : identify a problem, design a plan to resolve, implement the plan, evaluate effectiveness, reflect on results, make necessary adjustment and repeat the process.

Action Research Examples

  • Digital literacy assessment and training: The school’s IT department conducts a survey on students’ digital literacy skills. Based on the results, a tailored training program is designed for different age groups.
  • Library resources utilization study: The school librarian tracks the frequency and type of books checked out by students. The data is then used to curate a more relevant collection and organize reading programs.
  • Extracurricular activities and student well-being: A team of teachers and counselors assess the impact of extracurricular activities on student mental health through surveys and interviews. Adjustments are made based on findings.
  • Parent-teacher communication channels: The school evaluates the effectiveness of current communication tools (e.g., newsletters, apps) between teachers and parents. Feedback is used to implement a more streamlined system.
  • Homework load evaluation: Teachers across grade levels assess the amount and effectiveness of homework given. Adjustments are made to ensure a balance between academic rigor and student well-being.
  • Classroom environment and learning: A group of teachers collaborates to study the impact of classroom layouts and decorations on student engagement and comprehension. Changes are made based on the findings.
  • Student feedback on curriculum content: High school students are surveyed about the relevance and applicability of their current curriculum. The feedback is then used to make necessary curriculum adjustments.
  • Teacher mentoring and support: New teachers are paired with experienced mentors. Both parties provide feedback on the effectiveness of the mentoring program, leading to continuous improvements.
  • Assessment of school transportation: The school board evaluates the efficiency and safety of school buses through surveys with students and parents. Necessary changes are implemented based on the results.
  • Cultural sensitivity training: After conducting a survey on students’ cultural backgrounds and experiences, the school organizes workshops for teachers to promote a more inclusive classroom environment.
  • Environmental initiatives and student involvement: The school’s eco-club assesses the school’s carbon footprint and waste management. They then collaborate with the administration to implement greener practices and raise environmental awareness.
  • Working with parents through research: A school’s admin staff conduct focus group sessions with parents to identify top concerns.Those concerns will then be addressed and another session conducted at the end of the school year.
  • Peer teaching observations and improvements: Kindergarten teachers observe other teachers handling class transition techniques to share best practices.
  • PTA surveys and resultant action: The PTA of a district conducts a survey of members regarding their satisfaction with remote learning classes.The results will be presented to the school board for further action.
  • Recording and reflecting: A school administrator takes video recordings of playground behavior and then plays them for the teachers. The teachers work together to formulate a list of 10 playground safety guidelines.
  • Pre/post testing of interventions: A school board conducts a district wide evaluation of a STEM program by conducting a pre/post-test of students’ skills in computer programming.
  • Focus groups of practitioners : The professional development needs of teachers are determined from structured focus group sessions with teachers and admin.
  • School lunch research and intervention: A nutrition expert is hired to evaluate and improve the quality of school lunches.
  • School nurse systematic checklist and improvements: The school nurse implements a bathroom cleaning checklist to monitor cleanliness after the results of a recent teacher survey revealed several issues.
  • Wearable technologies for pedagogical improvements; Students wear accelerometers attached to their hips to gain a baseline measure of physical activity.The results will identify if any issues exist.
  • School counselor reflective practice : The school counselor conducts a student survey on antisocial behavior and then plans a series of workshops for both teachers and parents.

Detailed Examples

1. cooperation and leadership.

A science teacher has noticed that her 9 th grade students do not cooperate with each other when doing group projects. There is a lot of arguing and battles over whose ideas will be followed.

So, she decides to implement a simple action research project on the matter. First, she conducts a structured observation of the students’ behavior during meetings. She also has the students respond to a short questionnaire regarding their notions of leadership.

She then designs a two-week course on group dynamics and leadership styles. The course involves learning about leadership concepts and practices . In another element of the short course, students randomly select a leadership style and then engage in a role-play with other students.

At the end of the two weeks, she has the students work on a group project and conducts the same structured observation as before. She also gives the students a slightly different questionnaire on leadership as it relates to the group.

She plans to analyze the results and present the findings at a teachers’ meeting at the end of the term.

2. Professional Development Needs

Two high-school teachers have been selected to participate in a 1-year project in a third-world country. The project goal is to improve the classroom effectiveness of local teachers. 

The two teachers arrive in the country and begin to plan their action research. First, they decide to conduct a survey of teachers in the nearby communities of the school they are assigned to.

The survey will assess their professional development needs by directly asking the teachers and administrators. After collecting the surveys, they analyze the results by grouping the teachers based on subject matter.

They discover that history and social science teachers would like professional development on integrating smartboards into classroom instruction. Math teachers would like to attend workshops on project-based learning, while chemistry teachers feel that they need equipment more than training.

The two teachers then get started on finding the necessary training experts for the workshops and applying for equipment grants for the science teachers.

3. Playground Accidents

The school nurse has noticed a lot of students coming in after having mild accidents on the playground. She’s not sure if this is just her perception or if there really is an unusual increase this year.  So, she starts pulling data from the records over the last two years. She chooses the months carefully and only selects data from the first three months of each school year.

She creates a chart to make the data more easily understood. Sure enough, there seems to have been a dramatic increase in accidents this year compared to the same period of time from the previous two years.

She shows the data to the principal and teachers at the next meeting. They all agree that a field observation of the playground is needed.

Those observations reveal that the kids are not having accidents on the playground equipment as originally suspected. It turns out that the kids are tripping on the new sod that was installed over the summer.

They examine the sod and observe small gaps between the slabs. Each gap is approximately 1.5 inches wide and nearly two inches deep. The kids are tripping on this gap as they run.

They then discuss possible solutions.

4. Differentiated Learning

Trying to use the same content, methods, and processes for all students is a recipe for failure. This is why modifying each lesson to be flexible is highly recommended. Differentiated learning allows the teacher to adjust their teaching strategy based on all the different personalities and learning styles they see in their classroom.

Of course, differentiated learning should undergo the same rigorous assessment that all teaching techniques go through. So, a third-grade social science teacher asks his students to take a simple quiz on the industrial revolution. Then, he applies differentiated learning to the lesson.

By creating several different learning stations in his classroom, he gives his students a chance to learn about the industrial revolution in a way that captures their interests. The different stations contain: short videos, fact cards, PowerPoints, mini-chapters, and role-plays.

At the end of the lesson, students get to choose how they demonstrate their knowledge. They can take a test, construct a PPT, give an oral presentation, or conduct a simulated TV interview with different characters.

During this last phase of the lesson, the teacher is able to assess if they demonstrate the necessary knowledge and have achieved the defined learning outcomes. This analysis will allow him to make further adjustments to future lessons.

5. Healthy Habits Program

While looking at obesity rates of students, the school board of a large city is shocked by the dramatic increase in the weight of their students over the last five years. After consulting with three companies that specialize in student physical health, they offer the companies an opportunity to prove their value.

So, the board randomly assigns each company to a group of schools. Starting in the next academic year, each company will implement their healthy habits program in 5 middle schools.

Preliminary data is collected at each school at the beginning of the school year. Each and every student is weighed, their resting heart rate, blood pressure and cholesterol are also measured.

After analyzing the data, it is found that the schools assigned to each of the three companies are relatively similar on all of these measures.

At the end of the year, data for students at each school will be collected again. A simple comparison of pre- and post-program measurements will be conducted. The company with the best outcomes will be selected to implement their program city-wide.

Action research is a great way to collect data on a specific issue, implement a change, and then evaluate the effects of that change. It is perhaps the most practical of all types of primary research .

Most likely, the results will be mixed. Some aspects of the change were effective, while other elements were not. That’s okay. This just means that additional modifications to the change plan need to be made, which is usually quite easy to do.

There are many methods that can be utilized, such as surveys, field observations , and program evaluations.

The beauty of action research is based in its utility and flexibility. Just about anyone in a school setting is capable of conducting action research and the information can be incredibly useful.

Aronson, E., & Patnoe, S. (1997). The jigsaw classroom: Building cooperation in the classroom (2nd ed.). New York: Addison Wesley Longman.

Gillis, A., & Jackson, W. (2002). Research Methods for Nurses: Methods and Interpretation . Philadelphia: F.A. Davis Company.

Lewin, K. (1946). Action research and minority problems. Journal of SocialIssues, 2 (4), 34-46.

Macdonald, C. (2012). Understanding participatory action research: A qualitative research methodology option. Canadian Journal of Action Research, 13 , 34-50. https://doi.org/10.33524/cjar.v13i2.37 Mertler, C. A. (2008). Action Research: Teachers as Researchers in the Classroom . London: Sage.

Dave

  • Dave Cornell (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/dave-cornell-phd/ 23 Achieved Status Examples
  • Dave Cornell (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/dave-cornell-phd/ 25 Defense Mechanisms Examples
  • Dave Cornell (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/dave-cornell-phd/ 15 Theory of Planned Behavior Examples
  • Dave Cornell (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/dave-cornell-phd/ 18 Adaptive Behavior Examples

Chris

  • Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 23 Achieved Status Examples
  • Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 15 Ableism Examples
  • Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 25 Defense Mechanisms Examples
  • Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 15 Theory of Planned Behavior Examples

2 thoughts on “21 Action Research Examples (In Education)”

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Where can I capture this article in a better user-friendly format, since I would like to provide it to my students in a Qualitative Methods course at the University of Prince Edward Island? It is a good article, however, it is visually disjointed in its current format. Thanks, Dr. Frank T. Lavandier

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Hi Dr. Lavandier,

I’ve emailed you a word doc copy that you can use and edit with your class.

Best, Chris.

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Action Research: What it is, Stages & Examples

Action research is a method often used to make the situation better. It combines activity and investigation to make change happen.

The best way to get things accomplished is to do it yourself. This statement is utilized in corporations, community projects, and national governments. These organizations are relying on action research to cope with their continuously changing and unstable environments as they function in a more interdependent world.

In practical educational contexts, this involves using systematic inquiry and reflective practice to address real-world challenges, improve teaching and learning, enhance student engagement, and drive positive changes within the educational system.

This post outlines the definition of action research, its stages, and some examples.

Content Index

What is action research?

Stages of action research, the steps to conducting action research, examples of action research, advantages and disadvantages of action research.

Action research is a strategy that tries to find realistic solutions to organizations’ difficulties and issues. It is similar to applied research.

Action research refers basically learning by doing. First, a problem is identified, then some actions are taken to address it, then how well the efforts worked are measured, and if the results are not satisfactory, the steps are applied again.

It can be put into three different groups:

  • Positivist: This type of research is also called “classical action research.” It considers research a social experiment. This research is used to test theories in the actual world.
  • Interpretive: This kind of research is called “contemporary action research.” It thinks that business reality is socially made, and when doing this research, it focuses on the details of local and organizational factors.
  • Critical: This action research cycle takes a critical reflection approach to corporate systems and tries to enhance them.

All research is about learning new things. Collaborative action research contributes knowledge based on investigations in particular and frequently useful circumstances. It starts with identifying a problem. After that, the research process is followed by the below stages:

stages_of_action_research

Stage 1: Plan

For an action research project to go well, the researcher needs to plan it well. After coming up with an educational research topic or question after a research study, the first step is to develop an action plan to guide the research process. The research design aims to address the study’s question. The research strategy outlines what to undertake, when, and how.

Stage 2: Act

The next step is implementing the plan and gathering data. At this point, the researcher must select how to collect and organize research data . The researcher also needs to examine all tools and equipment before collecting data to ensure they are relevant, valid, and comprehensive.

Stage 3: Observe

Data observation is vital to any investigation. The action researcher needs to review the project’s goals and expectations before data observation. This is the final step before drawing conclusions and taking action.

Different kinds of graphs, charts, and networks can be used to represent the data. It assists in making judgments or progressing to the next stage of observing.

Stage 4: Reflect

This step involves applying a prospective solution and observing the results. It’s essential to see if the possible solution found through research can really solve the problem being studied.

The researcher must explore alternative ideas when the action research project’s solutions fail to solve the problem.

Action research is a systematic approach researchers, educators, and practitioners use to identify and address problems or challenges within a specific context. It involves a cyclical process of planning, implementing, reflecting, and adjusting actions based on the data collected. Here are the general steps involved in conducting an action research process:

Identify the action research question or problem

Clearly define the issue or problem you want to address through your research. It should be specific, actionable, and relevant to your working context.

Review existing knowledge

Conduct a literature review to understand what research has already been done on the topic. This will help you gain insights, identify gaps, and inform your research design.

Plan the research

Develop a research plan outlining your study’s objectives, methods, data collection tools, and timeline. Determine the scope of your research and the participants or stakeholders involved.

Collect data

Implement your research plan by collecting relevant data. This can involve various methods such as surveys, interviews, observations, document analysis, or focus groups. Ensure that your data collection methods align with your research objectives and allow you to gather the necessary information.

Analyze the data

Once you have collected the data, analyze it using appropriate qualitative or quantitative techniques. Look for patterns, themes, or trends in the data that can help you understand the problem better.

Reflect on the findings

Reflect on the analyzed data and interpret the results in the context of your research question. Consider the implications and possible solutions that emerge from the data analysis. This reflection phase is crucial for generating insights and understanding the underlying factors contributing to the problem.

Develop an action plan

Based on your analysis and reflection, develop an action plan that outlines the steps you will take to address the identified problem. The plan should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART goals). Consider involving relevant stakeholders in planning to ensure their buy-in and support.

Implement the action plan

Put your action plan into practice by implementing the identified strategies or interventions. This may involve making changes to existing practices, introducing new approaches, or testing alternative solutions. Document the implementation process and any modifications made along the way.

Evaluate and monitor progress

Continuously monitor and evaluate the impact of your actions. Collect additional data, assess the effectiveness of the interventions, and measure progress towards your goals. This evaluation will help you determine if your actions have the desired effects and inform any necessary adjustments.

Reflect and iterate

Reflect on the outcomes of your actions and the evaluation results. Consider what worked well, what did not, and why. Use this information to refine your approach, make necessary adjustments, and plan for the next cycle of action research if needed.

Remember that participatory action research is an iterative process, and multiple cycles may be required to achieve significant improvements or solutions to the identified problem. Each cycle builds on the insights gained from the previous one, fostering continuous learning and improvement.

Explore Insightfully Contextual Inquiry in Qualitative Research

Here are two real-life examples of action research.

Action research initiatives are frequently situation-specific. Still, other researchers can adapt the techniques. The example is from a researcher’s (Franklin, 1994) report about a project encouraging nature tourism in the Caribbean.

In 1991, this was launched to study how nature tourism may be implemented on the four Windward Islands in the Caribbean: St. Lucia, Grenada, Dominica, and St. Vincent.

For environmental protection, a government-led action study determined that the consultation process needs to involve numerous stakeholders, including commercial enterprises.

First, two researchers undertook the study and held search conferences on each island. The search conferences resulted in suggestions and action plans for local community nature tourism sub-projects.

Several islands formed advisory groups and launched national awareness and community projects. Regional project meetings were held to discuss experiences, self-evaluations, and strategies. Creating a documentary about a local initiative helped build community. And the study was a success, leading to a number of changes in the area.

Lau and Hayward (1997) employed action research to analyze Internet-based collaborative work groups.

Over two years, the researchers facilitated three action research problem -solving cycles with 15 teachers, project personnel, and 25 health practitioners from diverse areas. The goal was to see how Internet-based communications might affect their virtual workgroup.

First, expectations were defined, technology was provided, and a bespoke workgroup system was developed. Participants suggested shorter, more dispersed training sessions with project-specific instructions.

The second phase saw the system’s complete deployment. The final cycle witnessed system stability and virtual group formation. The key lesson was that the learning curve was poorly misjudged, with frustrations only marginally met by phone-based technical help. According to the researchers, the absence of high-quality online material about community healthcare was harmful.

Role clarity, connection building, knowledge sharing, resource assistance, and experiential learning are vital for virtual group growth. More study is required on how group support systems might assist groups in engaging with their external environment and boost group members’ learning. 

Action research has both good and bad points.

  • It is very flexible, so researchers can change their analyses to fit their needs and make individual changes.
  • It offers a quick and easy way to solve problems that have been going on for a long time instead of complicated, long-term solutions based on complex facts.
  • If It is done right, it can be very powerful because it can lead to social change and give people the tools to make that change in ways that are important to their communities.

Disadvantages

  • These studies have a hard time being generalized and are hard to repeat because they are so flexible. Because the researcher has the power to draw conclusions, they are often not thought to be theoretically sound.
  • Setting up an action study in an ethical way can be hard. People may feel like they have to take part or take part in a certain way.
  • It is prone to research errors like selection bias , social desirability bias, and other cognitive biases.

LEARN ABOUT: Self-Selection Bias

This post discusses how action research generates knowledge, its steps, and real-life examples. It is very applicable to the field of research and has a high level of relevance. We can only state that the purpose of this research is to comprehend an issue and find a solution to it.

At QuestionPro, we give researchers tools for collecting data, like our survey software, and a library of insights for any long-term study. Go to the Insight Hub if you want to see a demo or learn more about it.

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Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ’s)

Action research is a systematic approach to inquiry that involves identifying a problem or challenge in a practical context, implementing interventions or changes, collecting and analyzing data, and using the findings to inform decision-making and drive positive change.

Action research can be conducted by various individuals or groups, including teachers, administrators, researchers, and educational practitioners. It is often carried out by those directly involved in the educational setting where the research takes place.

The steps of action research typically include identifying a problem, reviewing relevant literature, designing interventions or changes, collecting and analyzing data, reflecting on findings, and implementing improvements based on the results.

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4 Preparing for Action Research in the Classroom: Practical Issues

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS

  • What sort of considerations are necessary to take action in your educational context?
  • How do you facilitate an action plan without disrupting your teaching?
  • How do you respond when the unplanned happens during data collection?

An action research project is a practical endeavor that will ultimately be shaped by your educational context and practice. Now that you have developed a literature review, you are ready to revise your initial plans and begin to plan your project. This chapter will provide some advice about your considerations when undertaking an action research project in your classroom.

Maintain Focus

Hopefully, you found a lot a research on your topic. If so, you will now have a better understanding of how it fits into your area and field of educational research. Even though the topic and area you are researching may not be small, your study itself should clearly focus on one aspect of the topic in your classroom. It is important to maintain clarity about what you are investigating because a lot will be going on simultaneously during the research process and you do not want to spend precious time on erroneous aspects that are irrelevant to your research.

Even though you may view your practice as research, and vice versa, you might want to consider your research project as a projection or megaphone for your work that will bring attention to the small decisions that make a difference in your educational context. From experience, our concern is that you will find that researching one aspect of your practice will reveal other interconnected aspects that you may find interesting, and you will disorient yourself researching in a confluence of interests, commitments, and purposes. We simply want to emphasize – don’t try to research everything at once. Stay focused on your topic, and focus on exploring it in depth, instead of its many related aspects. Once you feel you have made progress in one aspect, you can then progress to other related areas, as new research projects that continue the research cycle.

Identify a Clear Research Question

Your literature review should have exposed you to an array of research questions related to your topic. More importantly, your review should have helped identify which research questions we have addressed as a field, and which ones still need to be addressed . More than likely your research questions will resemble ones from your literature review, while also being distinguishable based upon your own educational context and the unexplored areas of research on your topic.

Regardless of how your research question took shape, it is important to be clear about what you are researching in your educational context. Action research questions typically begin in ways related to “How does … ?” or “How do I/we … ?”, for example:

Research Question Examples

  • How does a semi-structured morning meeting improve my classroom community?
  • How does historical fiction help students think about people’s agency in the past?
  • How do I improve student punctuation use through acting out sentences?
  • How do we increase student responsibility for their own learning as a team of teachers?

I particularly favor questions with I or we, because they emphasize that you, the actor and researcher, will be clearly taking action to improve your practice. While this may seem rather easy, you need to be aware of asking the right kind of question. One issue is asking a too pointed and closed question that limits the possibility for analysis. These questions tend to rely on quantitative answers, or yes/no answers. For example, “How many students got a 90% or higher on the exam, after reviewing the material three times?

Another issue is asking a question that is too broad, or that considers too many variables. For example, “How does room temperature affect students’ time-on-task?” These are obviously researchable questions, but the aim is a cause-and-effect relationship between variables that has little or no value to your daily practice.

I also want to point out that your research question will potentially change as the research develops. If you consider the question:

As you do an activity, you may find that students are more comfortable and engaged by acting sentences out in small groups, instead of the whole class. Therefore, your question may shift to:

  • How do I improve student punctuation use through acting out sentences, in small groups ?

By simply engaging in the research process and asking questions, you will open your thinking to new possibilities and you will develop new understandings about yourself and the problematic aspects of your educational context.

Understand Your Capabilities and Know that Change Happens Slowly

Similar to your research question, it is important to have a clear and realistic understanding of what is possible to research in your specific educational context. For example, would you be able to address unsatisfactory structures (policies and systems) within your educational context? Probably not immediately, but over time you potentially could. It is much more feasible to think of change happening in smaller increments, from within your own classroom or context, with you as one change agent. For example, you might find it particularly problematic that your school or district places a heavy emphasis on traditional grades, believing that these grades are often not reflective of the skills students have or have not mastered. Instead of attempting to research grading practices across your school or district, your research might instead focus on determining how to provide more meaningful feedback to students and parents about progress in your course. While this project identifies and addresses a structural issue that is part of your school and district context, to keep things manageable, your research project would focus the outcomes on your classroom. The more research you do related to the structure of your educational context the more likely modifications will emerge. The more you understand these modifications in relation to the structural issues you identify within your own context, the more you can influence others by sharing your work and enabling others to understand the modification and address structural issues within their contexts. Throughout your project, you might determine that modifying your grades to be standards-based is more effective than traditional grades, and in turn, that sharing your research outcomes with colleagues at an in-service presentation prompts many to adopt a similar model in their own classrooms. It can be defeating to expect the world to change immediately, but you can provide the spark that ignites coordinated changes. In this way, action research is a powerful methodology for enacting social change. Action research enables individuals to change their own lives, while linking communities of like-minded practitioners who work towards action.

Plan Thoughtfully

Planning thoughtfully involves having a path in mind, but not necessarily having specific objectives. Due to your experience with students and your educational context, the research process will often develop in ways as you expected, but at times it may develop a little differently, which may require you to shift the research focus and change your research question. I will suggest a couple methods to help facilitate this potential shift. First, you may want to develop criteria for gauging the effectiveness of your research process. You may need to refine and modify your criteria and your thinking as you go. For example, we often ask ourselves if action research is encouraging depth of analysis beyond my typical daily pedagogical reflection. You can think about this as you are developing data collection methods and even when you are collecting data. The key distinction is whether the data you will be collecting allows for nuance among the participants or variables. This does not mean that you will have nuance, but it should allow for the possibility. Second, criteria are shaped by our values and develop into standards of judgement. If we identify criteria such as teacher empowerment, then we will use that standard to think about the action contained in our research process. Our values inform our work; therefore, our work should be judged in relation to the relevance of our values in our pedagogy and practice.

Does Your Timeline Work?

While action research is situated in the temporal span that is your life, your research project is short-term, bounded, and related to the socially mediated practices within your educational context. The timeline is important for bounding, or setting limits to your research project, while also making sure you provide the right amount of time for the data to emerge from the process.

For example, if you are thinking about examining the use of math diaries in your classroom, you probably do not want to look at a whole semester of entries because that would be a lot of data, with entries related to a wide range of topics. This would create a huge data analysis endeavor. Therefore, you may want to look at entries from one chapter or unit of study. Also, in terms of timelines, you want to make sure participants have enough time to develop the data you collect. Using the same math example, you would probably want students to have plenty of time to write in the journals, and also space out the entries over the span of the chapter or unit.

In relation to the examples, we think it is an important mind shift to not think of research timelines in terms of deadlines. It is vitally important to provide time and space for the data to emerge from the participants. Therefore, it would be potentially counterproductive to rush a 50-minute data collection into 20 minutes – like all good educators, be flexible in the research process.

Involve Others

It is important to not isolate yourself when doing research. Many educators are already isolated when it comes to practice in their classroom. The research process should be an opportunity to engage with colleagues and open up your classroom to discuss issues that are potentially impacting your entire educational context. Think about the following relationships:

Research participants

You may invite a variety of individuals in your educational context, many with whom you are in a shared situation (e.g. colleagues, administrators). These participants may be part of a collaborative study, they may simply help you develop data collection instruments or intervention items, or they may help to analyze and make sense of the data. While the primary research focus will be you and your learning, you will also appreciate how your learning is potentially influencing the quality of others’ learning.

We always tell educators to be public about your research, or anything exciting that is happening in your educational context, for that matter. In terms of research, you do not want it to seem mysterious to any stakeholder in the educational context. Invite others to visit your setting and observe your research process, and then ask for their formal feedback. Inviting others to your classroom will engage and connect you with other stakeholders, while also showing that your research was established in an ethic of respect for multiple perspectives.

Critical friends or validators

Using critical friends is one way to involve colleagues and also validate your findings and conclusions. While your positionality will shape the research process and subsequently your interpretations of the data, it is important to make sure that others see similar logic in your process and conclusions. Critical friends or validators provide some level of certification that the frameworks you use to develop your research project and make sense of your data are appropriate for your educational context. Your critical friends and validators’ suggestions will be useful if you develop a report or share your findings, but most importantly will provide you confidence moving forward.

Potential researchers

As an educational researcher, you are involved in ongoing improvement plans and district or systemic change. The flexibility of action research allows it to be used in a variety of ways, and your initial research can spark others in your context to engage in research either individually for their own purposes, or collaboratively as a grade level, team, or school. Collaborative inquiry with other educators is an emerging form of professional learning and development for schools with school improvement plans. While they call it collaborative inquiry, these schools are often using an action research model. It is good to think of all of your colleagues as potential research collaborators in the future.

Prioritize Ethical Practice

Try to always be cognizant of your own positionality during the action research process, its relation to your educational context, and any associated power relation to your positionality. Furthermore, you want to make sure that you are not coercing or engaging participants into harmful practices. While this may seem obvious, you may not even realize you are harming your participants because you believe the action is necessary for the research process.

For example, commonly teachers want to try out an intervention that will potentially positively impact their students. When the teacher sets up the action research study, they may have a control group and an experimental group. There is potential to impair the learning of one of these groups if the intervention is either highly impactful or exceedingly worse than the typical instruction. Therefore, teachers can sometimes overlook the potential harm to students in pursuing an experimental method of exploring an intervention.

If you are working with a university researcher, ethical concerns will be covered by the Institutional Review Board (IRB). If not, your school or district may have a process or form that you would need to complete, so it would beneficial to check your district policies before starting. Other widely accepted aspects of doing ethically informed research, include:

Confirm Awareness of Study and Negotiate Access – with authorities, participants and parents, guardians, caregivers and supervisors (with IRB this is done with Informed Consent).

  • Promise to Uphold Confidentiality – Uphold confidentiality, to your fullest ability, to protect information, identity and data. You can identify people if they indicate they want to be recognized for their contributions.
  • Ensure participants’ rights to withdraw from the study at any point .
  • Make sure data is secured, either on password protected computer or lock drawer .

Prepare to Problematize your Thinking

Educational researchers who are more philosophically-natured emphasize that research is not about finding solutions, but instead is about creating and asking new and more precise questions. This is represented in the action research process shown in the diagrams in Chapter 1, as Collingwood (1939) notes the aim in human interaction is always to keep the conversation open, while Edward Said (1997) emphasized that there is no end because whatever we consider an end is actually the beginning of something entirely new. These reflections have perspective in evaluating the quality in research and signifying what is “good” in “good pedagogy” and “good research”. If we consider that action research is about studying and reflecting on one’s learning and how that learning influences practice to improve it, there is nothing to stop your line of inquiry as long as you relate it to improving practice. This is why it is necessary to problematize and scrutinize our practices.

Ethical Dilemmas for Educator-Researchers

Classroom teachers are increasingly expected to demonstrate a disposition of reflection and inquiry into their own practice. Many advocate for schools to become research centers, and to produce their own research studies, which is an important advancement in acknowledging and addressing the complexity in today’s schools. When schools conduct their own research studies without outside involvement, they bypass outside controls over their studies. Schools shift power away from the oversight of outside experts and ethical research responsibilities are shifted to those conducting the formal research within their educational context. Ethics firmly grounded and established in school policies and procedures for teaching, becomes multifaceted when teaching practice and research occur simultaneously. When educators conduct research in their classrooms, are they doing so as teachers or as researchers, and if they are researchers, at what point does the teaching role change to research? Although the notion of objectivity is a key element in traditional research paradigms, educator-based research acknowledges a subjective perspective as the educator-researcher is not viewed separately from the research. In action research, unlike traditional research, the educator as researcher gains access to the research site by the nature of the work they are paid and expected to perform. The educator is never detached from the research and remains at the research site both before and after the study. Because studying one’s practice comprises working with other people, ethical deliberations are inevitable. Educator-researchers confront role conflict and ambiguity regarding ethical issues such as informed consent from participants, protecting subjects (students) from harm, and ensuring confidentiality. They must demonstrate a commitment toward fully understanding ethical dilemmas that present themselves within the unique set of circumstances of the educational context. Questions about research ethics can feel exceedingly complex and in specific situations, educator- researchers require guidance from others.

Think about it this way. As a part-time historian and former history teacher I often problematized who we regard as good and bad people in history. I (Clark) grew up minutes from Jesse James’ childhood farm. Jesse James is a well-documented thief, and possibly by today’s standards, a terrorist. He is famous for daylight bank robberies, as well as the sheer number of successful robberies. When Jesse James was assassinated, by a trusted associate none-the-less, his body travelled the country for people to see, while his assailant and assailant’s brother reenacted the assassination over 1,200 times in theaters across the country. Still today in my hometown, they reenact Jesse James’ daylight bank robbery each year at the Fall Festival, immortalizing this thief and terrorist from our past. This demonstrates how some people saw him as somewhat of hero, or champion of some sort of resistance, both historically and in the present. I find this curious and ripe for further inquiry, but primarily it is problematic for how we think about people as good or bad in the past. Whatever we may individually or collectively think about Jesse James as a “good” or “bad” person in history, it is vitally important to problematize our thinking about him. Talking about Jesse James may seem strange, but it is relevant to the field of action research. If we tell people that we are engaging in important and “good” actions, we should be prepared to justify why it is “good” and provide a theoretical, epistemological, or ontological rationale if possible. Experience is never enough, you need to justify why you act in certain ways and not others, and this includes thinking critically about your own thinking.

Educators who view inquiry and research as a facet of their professional identity must think critically about how to design and conduct research in educational settings to address respect, justice, and beneficence to minimize harm to participants. This chapter emphasized the due diligence involved in ethically planning the collection of data, and in considering the challenges faced by educator-researchers in educational contexts.

Planning Action

After the thinking about the considerations above, you are now at the stage of having selected a topic and reflected on different aspects of that topic. You have undertaken a literature review and have done some reading which has enriched your understanding of your topic. As a result of your reading and further thinking, you may have changed or fine-tuned the topic you are exploring. Now it is time for action. In the last section of this chapter, we will address some practical issues of carrying out action research, drawing on both personal experiences of supervising educator-researchers in different settings and from reading and hearing about action research projects carried out by other researchers.

Engaging in an action research can be a rewarding experience, but a beneficial action research project does not happen by accident – it requires careful planning, a flexible approach, and continuous educator-researcher reflection. Although action research does not have to go through a pre-determined set of steps, it is useful here for you to be aware of the progression which we presented in Chapter 2. The sequence of activities we suggested then could be looked on as a checklist for you to consider before planning the practical aspects of your project.

We also want to provide some questions for you to think about as you are about to begin.

  • Have you identified a topic for study?
  • What is the specific context for the study? (It may be a personal project for you or for a group of researchers of which you are a member.)
  • Have you read a sufficient amount of the relevant literature?
  • Have you developed your research question(s)?
  • Have you assessed the resource needed to complete the research?

As you start your project, it is worth writing down:

  • a working title for your project, which you may need to refine later;
  • the background of the study , both in terms of your professional context and personal motivation;
  • the aims of the project;
  • the specific outcomes you are hoping for.

Although most of the models of action research presented in Chapter 1 suggest action taking place in some pre-defined order, they also allow us the possibility of refining our ideas and action in the light of our experiences and reflections. Changes may need to be made in response to your evaluation and your reflections on how the project is progressing. For example, you might have to make adjustments, taking into account the students’ responses, your observations and any observations of your colleagues. All this is very useful and, in fact, it is one of the features that makes action research suitable for educational research.

Action research planning sheet

In the past, we have provided action researchers with the following planning list that incorporates all of these considerations. Again, like we have said many times, this is in no way definitive, or lock-in-step procedure you need to follow, but instead guidance based on our perspective to help you engage in the action research process. The left column is the simplified version, and the right column offers more specific advice if need.

Figure 4.1 Planning Sheet for Action Research

My topic of research is about …
Why do you wish to research this topic
Are your plans realistic, doable, and/or supported?
Write down a working title. What is your research question or aspect you are intending to study? What do you know and not know about your topic of study?
Who will be involved in the research? What is the timeline? What ethical procedures do you need?
Where will I search for literature?
What data do you need to collect? Why do you need each of them?
What are the possible outcomes of my research?
What is your research question?

Action Research Copyright © by J. Spencer Clark; Suzanne Porath; Julie Thiele; and Morgan Jobe is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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  • Writing Strong Research Questions | Criteria & Examples

Writing Strong Research Questions | Criteria & Examples

Published on October 26, 2022 by Shona McCombes . Revised on November 21, 2023.

A research question pinpoints exactly what you want to find out in your work. A good research question is essential to guide your research paper , dissertation , or thesis .

All research questions should be:

  • Focused on a single problem or issue
  • Researchable using primary and/or secondary sources
  • Feasible to answer within the timeframe and practical constraints
  • Specific enough to answer thoroughly
  • Complex enough to develop the answer over the space of a paper or thesis
  • Relevant to your field of study and/or society more broadly

Writing Strong Research Questions

Table of contents

How to write a research question, what makes a strong research question, using sub-questions to strengthen your main research question, research questions quiz, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about research questions.

You can follow these steps to develop a strong research question:

  • Choose your topic
  • Do some preliminary reading about the current state of the field
  • Narrow your focus to a specific niche
  • Identify the research problem that you will address

The way you frame your question depends on what your research aims to achieve. The table below shows some examples of how you might formulate questions for different purposes.

Research question formulations
Describing and exploring
Explaining and testing
Evaluating and acting is X

Using your research problem to develop your research question

Example research problem Example research question(s)
Teachers at the school do not have the skills to recognize or properly guide gifted children in the classroom. What practical techniques can teachers use to better identify and guide gifted children?
Young people increasingly engage in the “gig economy,” rather than traditional full-time employment. However, it is unclear why they choose to do so. What are the main factors influencing young people’s decisions to engage in the gig economy?

Note that while most research questions can be answered with various types of research , the way you frame your question should help determine your choices.

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Research questions anchor your whole project, so it’s important to spend some time refining them. The criteria below can help you evaluate the strength of your research question.

Focused and researchable

Criteria Explanation
Focused on a single topic Your central research question should work together with your research problem to keep your work focused. If you have multiple questions, they should all clearly tie back to your central aim.
Answerable using Your question must be answerable using and/or , or by reading scholarly sources on the to develop your argument. If such data is impossible to access, you likely need to rethink your question.
Not based on value judgements Avoid subjective words like , , and . These do not give clear criteria for answering the question.

Feasible and specific

Criteria Explanation
Answerable within practical constraints Make sure you have enough time and resources to do all research required to answer your question. If it seems you will not be able to gain access to the data you need, consider narrowing down your question to be more specific.
Uses specific, well-defined concepts All the terms you use in the research question should have clear meanings. Avoid vague language, jargon, and too-broad ideas.

Does not demand a conclusive solution, policy, or course of action Research is about informing, not instructing. Even if your project is focused on a practical problem, it should aim to improve understanding rather than demand a ready-made solution.

If ready-made solutions are necessary, consider conducting instead. Action research is a research method that aims to simultaneously investigate an issue as it is solved. In other words, as its name suggests, action research conducts research and takes action at the same time.

Complex and arguable

Criteria Explanation
Cannot be answered with or Closed-ended, / questions are too simple to work as good research questions—they don’t provide enough for robust investigation and discussion.

Cannot be answered with easily-found facts If you can answer the question through a single Google search, book, or article, it is probably not complex enough. A good research question requires original data, synthesis of multiple sources, and original interpretation and argumentation prior to providing an answer.

Relevant and original

Criteria Explanation
Addresses a relevant problem Your research question should be developed based on initial reading around your . It should focus on addressing a problem or gap in the existing knowledge in your field or discipline.
Contributes to a timely social or academic debate The question should aim to contribute to an existing and current debate in your field or in society at large. It should produce knowledge that future researchers or practitioners can later build on.
Has not already been answered You don’t have to ask something that nobody has ever thought of before, but your question should have some aspect of originality. For example, you can focus on a specific location, or explore a new angle.

Chances are that your main research question likely can’t be answered all at once. That’s why sub-questions are important: they allow you to answer your main question in a step-by-step manner.

Good sub-questions should be:

  • Less complex than the main question
  • Focused only on 1 type of research
  • Presented in a logical order

Here are a few examples of descriptive and framing questions:

  • Descriptive: According to current government arguments, how should a European bank tax be implemented?
  • Descriptive: Which countries have a bank tax/levy on financial transactions?
  • Framing: How should a bank tax/levy on financial transactions look at a European level?

Keep in mind that sub-questions are by no means mandatory. They should only be asked if you need the findings to answer your main question. If your main question is simple enough to stand on its own, it’s okay to skip the sub-question part. As a rule of thumb, the more complex your subject, the more sub-questions you’ll need.

Try to limit yourself to 4 or 5 sub-questions, maximum. If you feel you need more than this, it may be indication that your main research question is not sufficiently specific. In this case, it’s is better to revisit your problem statement and try to tighten your main question up.

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If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Methodology

  • Sampling methods
  • Simple random sampling
  • Stratified sampling
  • Cluster sampling
  • Likert scales
  • Reproducibility

 Statistics

  • Null hypothesis
  • Statistical power
  • Probability distribution
  • Effect size
  • Poisson distribution

Research bias

  • Optimism bias
  • Cognitive bias
  • Implicit bias
  • Hawthorne effect
  • Anchoring bias
  • Explicit bias

The way you present your research problem in your introduction varies depending on the nature of your research paper . A research paper that presents a sustained argument will usually encapsulate this argument in a thesis statement .

A research paper designed to present the results of empirical research tends to present a research question that it seeks to answer. It may also include a hypothesis —a prediction that will be confirmed or disproved by your research.

As you cannot possibly read every source related to your topic, it’s important to evaluate sources to assess their relevance. Use preliminary evaluation to determine whether a source is worth examining in more depth.

This involves:

  • Reading abstracts , prefaces, introductions , and conclusions
  • Looking at the table of contents to determine the scope of the work
  • Consulting the index for key terms or the names of important scholars

A research hypothesis is your proposed answer to your research question. The research hypothesis usually includes an explanation (“ x affects y because …”).

A statistical hypothesis, on the other hand, is a mathematical statement about a population parameter. Statistical hypotheses always come in pairs: the null and alternative hypotheses . In a well-designed study , the statistical hypotheses correspond logically to the research hypothesis.

Writing Strong Research Questions

Formulating a main research question can be a difficult task. Overall, your question should contribute to solving the problem that you have defined in your problem statement .

However, it should also fulfill criteria in three main areas:

  • Researchability
  • Feasibility and specificity
  • Relevance and originality

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200+ List of Topics for Action Research in the Classroom

List of Topics for Action Research in the Classroom

In the dynamic landscape of education, teachers are continually seeking innovative ways to enhance their teaching practices and improve student outcomes. Action research in the classroom is a powerful tool that allows educators to investigate and address specific challenges, leading to positive changes in teaching methods and learning experiences. 

Selecting the right topics from the list of topics for action research in the classroom is crucial for ensuring meaningful insights and improvements. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of action research in the classroom, the criteria for selecting impactful topics, and provide an extensive list of potential research areas.

Understanding: What is Action Research

Table of Contents

Action research is a reflective process that empowers teachers to systematically investigate and analyze their own teaching practices. Unlike traditional research, action research is conducted by educators within their own classrooms, emphasizing a collaborative and participatory approach. 

This method enables teachers to identify challenges, implement interventions, and assess the effectiveness of their actions.

How to Select Topics From List of Topics for Action Research in the Classroom

Choosing the right topic is the first step in the action research process. The selected topic should align with classroom goals, address students’ needs, be feasible to implement, and have the potential for positive impact. Teachers should consider the following criteria when selecting action research topics:

  • Alignment with Classroom Goals and Objectives: The chosen topic should directly contribute to the overall goals and objectives of the classroom. Whether it’s improving student engagement, enhancing learning outcomes, or fostering a positive classroom environment, the topic should align with the broader educational context.
  • Relevance to Students’ Needs and Challenges: Effective action research addresses the specific needs and challenges faced by students. Teachers should identify areas where students may be struggling or where improvement is needed, ensuring that the research directly impacts the learning experiences of the students.
  • Feasibility and Practicality: The feasibility of the research is crucial. Teachers must choose topics that are practical to implement within the constraints of the classroom setting. This includes considering available resources, time constraints, and the level of support from school administrators.
  • Potential for Positive Impact: The ultimate goal of action research is to bring about positive change. Teachers should carefully assess the potential impact of their research, aiming for improvements in teaching methods, student performance, or overall classroom dynamics.

List of Topics for Action Research in the Classroom

  • Impact of Mindfulness Practices on Student Focus
  • The Effectiveness of Peer Tutoring in Mathematics
  • Strategies for Encouraging Critical Thinking in History Classes
  • Using Gamification to Enhance Learning in Science
  • Investigating the Impact of Flexible Seating Arrangements
  • Assessing the Benefits of Project-Based Learning in Language Arts
  • The Influence of Classroom Decor on Student Motivation
  • Examining the Use of Learning Stations for Differentiation
  • Implementing Reflective Journals to Enhance Writing Skills
  • Exploring the Impact of Flipped Classroom Models
  • Analyzing the Effects of Homework on Student Performance
  • The Role of Positive Reinforcement in Classroom Behavior
  • Investigating the Impact of Classroom Libraries on Reading Proficiency
  • Strategies for Fostering a Growth Mindset in Students
  • Assessing the Benefits of Cross-Curricular Integration
  • Using Technology to Enhance Vocabulary Acquisition
  • The Impact of Outdoor Learning on Student Engagement
  • Investigating the Relationship Between Attendance and Academic Success
  • The Role of Parental Involvement in Homework Completion
  • Assessing the Impact of Classroom Rituals on Community Building
  • Strategies for Increasing Student Participation in Discussions
  • Exploring the Influence of Classroom Lighting on Student Alertness
  • Investigating the Impact of Daily Agendas on Time Management
  • The Effectiveness of Socratic Seminars in Social Studies
  • Analyzing the Use of Graphic Organizers for Concept Mapping
  • Implementing Student-Led Conferences for Goal Setting
  • Examining the Effects of Mind Mapping on Information Retention
  • The Influence of Classroom Temperature on Academic Performance
  • Investigating the Benefits of Cooperative Learning Strategies
  • Strategies for Addressing Test Anxiety in Students
  • Assessing the Impact of Positive Affirmations on Student Confidence
  • The Use of Literature Circles to Enhance Reading Comprehension
  • Exploring the Effects of Classroom Noise Levels on Concentration
  • Investigating the Benefits of Cross-Grade Collaborations
  • Analyzing the Impact of Goal Setting on Student Achievement
  • Implementing Interactive Notebooks for Conceptual Understanding
  • The Effectiveness of Response to Intervention (RTI) Programs
  • Strategies for Integrating Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
  • Investigating the Impact of Classroom Discussions on Critical Thinking
  • The Role of Brain Breaks in Enhancing Student Focus
  • Assessing the Benefits of Inquiry-Based Learning in Science
  • Exploring the Effects of Music on Studying and Retention
  • Investigating the Use of Learning Contracts for Individualized Learning
  • The Influence of Classroom Colors on Mood and Learning
  • Strategies for Promoting Collaborative Problem-Solving
  • Analyzing the Impact of Flexible Scheduling on Student Productivity
  • The Effectiveness of Mindful Breathing Exercises on Stress Reduction
  • Investigating the Benefits of Service Learning Projects
  • The Role of Peer Assessment in Improving Writing Skills
  • Exploring the Impact of Field Trips on Cultural Competency
  • Assessing the Benefits of Personalized Learning Plans
  • Strategies for Differentiating Instruction in Large Classrooms
  • Investigating the Influence of Teacher-Student Relationships on Learning
  • The Effectiveness of Vocabulary Games in Foreign Language Classes
  • Analyzing the Impact of Classroom Discussions on Civic Engagement
  • Implementing Goal-Setting Strategies for Test Preparation
  • The Role of Classroom Celebrations in Building a Positive Environment
  • Strategies for Enhancing Student Reflection and Metacognition
  • Investigating the Effects of Positive Behavior Supports (PBS)
  • The Influence of Classroom Humor on Student Engagement
  • Assessing the Benefits of Student-Led Research Projects
  • Exploring the Impact of Timed vs. Untimed Tests on Anxiety
  • Investigating the Use of Educational Podcasts for Learning
  • The Effectiveness of Debate Activities in Developing Persuasive Skills
  • Analyzing the Impact of Mindful Walking Breaks on Concentration
  • Strategies for Promoting Digital Citizenship in the Classroom
  • The Role of Visualization Techniques in Mathematics Learning
  • Assessing the Benefits of Classroom Agreements for Behavior
  • Exploring the Effects of Goal-Setting in Physical Education
  • Investigating the Influence of Classroom Seating Charts on Behavior
  • The Effectiveness of Peer Editing in Improving Writing Skills
  • Strategies for Integrating Cultural Competency in History Lessons
  • Analyzing the Impact of Classroom Pets on Student Well-Being
  • The Role of Morning Meetings in Building Classroom Community
  • Investigating the Benefits of Using Learning Centers in Elementary Schools
  • Exploring the Effects of Virtual Reality in Geography Education
  • Assessing the Impact of Homework Choice on Student Motivation
  • Strategies for Promoting Growth Mindset in Mathematics
  • The Influence of Classroom Layout on Group Collaboration
  • Investigating the Benefits of Mindful Listening Practices
  • The Effectiveness of Using Real-World Examples in Science Lessons
  • Analyzing the Impact of Student-Led Assessments on Accountability
  • Exploring the Use of Learning Contracts for Student Responsibility
  • Investigating the Benefits of Teaching Digital Literacy Skills
  • Strategies for Implementing Peer Mentoring Programs
  • The Role of Graphic Novels in Promoting Literacy
  • Assessing the Impact of Flexible Grouping in Mathematics Classes
  • The Effectiveness of Using Storytelling for Conceptual Understanding
  • Investigating the Influence of Classroom Rituals on Attendance
  • Exploring the Benefits of Mindfulness Practices in Physical Education
  • Strategies for Integrating Social Justice Education in the Curriculum
  • Analyzing the Impact of Goal-Setting on Homework Completion
  • The Role of Classroom Mindfulness Activities in Stress Reduction
  • Investigating the Benefits of Using Educational Apps for Vocabulary
  • The Effectiveness of Using Drama in History Lessons
  • Assessing the Impact of Classroom Routines on Time Management
  • Exploring the Influence of Teacher-Student Rapport on Academic Achievement
  • Strategies for Promoting Active Listening Skills in the Classroom
  • Investigating the Benefits of Using Concept Mapping in Science
  • The Role of Classroom Socratic Seminars in Developing Critical Thinking
  • Assessing the Impact of Mindful Eating Practices on Student Focus
  • Exploring the Effects of Flipped Learning in Physical Education
  • Investigating the Benefits of Using Educational Games for Math Fluency
  • The Effectiveness of Peer Assessment in Art Classes
  • Strategies for Fostering Creativity in Science Education
  • Analyzing the Impact of Morning Stretches on Student Alertness
  • The Role of Classroom Discussions in Enhancing Social Studies Learning
  • Investigating the Benefits of Using Augmented Reality in History Lessons
  • Assessing the Impact of Growth Mindset Interventions on Test Anxiety
  • Strategies for Incorporating Environmental Education in the Curriculum
  • The Effectiveness of Using Conceptual Maps in Literature Analysis
  • Exploring the Influence of Classroom Lighting on Reading Comprehension
  • Investigating the Benefits of Using Learning Apps for Language Acquisition
  • The Role of Classroom Experiments in Science Education
  • Analyzing the Impact of Mindful Breathing Exercises on Test Performance
  • Strategies for Promoting Collaborative Problem-Solving in Mathematics
  • Assessing the Benefits of Mindfulness Practices in Physical Education
  • Exploring the Effects of Flexible Seating on Student Collaboration
  • Investigating the Influence of Homework Choice on Student Motivation
  • The Effectiveness of Using Educational Podcasts for History Learning
  • Strategies for Integrating Sustainability Education Across Subjects
  • Analyzing the Impact of Mindful Writing Practices on Language Arts Skills
  • The Role of Peer Teaching in Enhancing Understanding of Complex Concepts
  • Investigating the Benefits of Using Digital Storytelling in Literature Classes
  • The Effectiveness of Inquiry-Based Learning in Social Studies
  • Assessing the Impact of Student-Led Book Clubs on Reading Engagement
  • Strategies for Incorporating Financial Literacy in Mathematics Education
  • Exploring the Influence of Classroom Decor on Science Interest
  • Investigating the Benefits of Mindful Movement Breaks in the Classroom
  • The Role of Reflection Journals in Developing Critical Thinking Skills
  • Analyzing the Impact of Virtual Field Trips on Geography Learning
  • Strategies for Promoting Inclusive Physical Education Practices
  • Assessing the Benefits of Using Educational Board Games for Learning
  • The Effectiveness of Mindfulness Practices in Foreign Language Classes
  • Investigating the Influence of Classroom Rituals on Academic Rigor
  • Exploring the Impact of Student-Led Conferences on Goal Setting
  • The Role of Mindful Listening Practices in Improving Communication Skills
  • Investigating the Benefits of Using Educational Apps for Science Exploration
  • Analyzing the Effectiveness of Socratic Seminars in Philosophy Classes
  • Strategies for Promoting Gender Equity in STEM Education
  • Assessing the Impact of Classroom Celebrations on Student Well-Being
  • The Effectiveness of Using Debate Activities in Language Arts
  • Exploring the Influence of Positive Affirmations on Classroom Climate
  • Investigating the Benefits of Using Concept Mapping in History Essays
  • Strategies for Incorporating Media Literacy in Social Studies
  • Analyzing the Impact of Mindful Reflection Practices on Homework Completion
  • The Role of Peer Collaboration in Enhancing Artistic Skills
  • Investigating the Benefits of Using Educational Apps for Vocabulary Acquisition
  • The Effectiveness of Mindful Breathing Exercises in Test Preparation
  • Assessing the Impact of Flipped Learning in Science Laboratories
  • Strategies for Promoting Civic Engagement in Social Studies Classes
  • Exploring the Influence of Outdoor Learning on Scientific Inquiry
  • Investigating the Benefits of Using Learning Stations for Literature Analysis
  • The Role of Mindful Movement in Improving Physical Education Experiences
  • Analyzing the Effectiveness of Virtual Reality in Language Learning
  • Strategies for Incorporating Global Perspectives in Geography Education
  • Assessing the Impact of Mindful Coloring Activities on Stress Reduction
  • The Effectiveness of Using Educational Games for History Review
  • Investigating the Benefits of Mindful Breathing Exercises in Mathematics
  • Exploring the Influence of Classroom Rituals on Study Habits
  • The Role of Mindful Listening Practices in Enhancing Oral Communication
  • Analyzing the Impact of Student-Led Workshops on Study Skills
  • Strategies for Promoting Critical Media Literacy in Language Arts
  • Assessing the Benefits of Mindfulness Practices in Physical Fitness
  • The Effectiveness of Using Educational Apps for Music Appreciation
  • Investigating the Influence of Classroom Decor on Artistic Expression
  • Exploring the Impact of Mindful Eating Practices on Nutrition Awareness
  • The Role of Peer Assessment in Improving Science Fair Projects
  • Analyzing the Benefits of Mindful Breathing Exercises in History Classes
  • Strategies for Promoting Teamwork in Physical Education
  • Assessing the Impact of Classroom Celebrations on Cultural Understanding
  • The Effectiveness of Using Conceptual Maps in Geography Education
  • Investigating the Benefits of Mindful Movement Breaks in Mathematics
  • The Role of Mindful Listening Practices in Improving Musical Skills
  • Analyzing the Impact of Student-Led Discussions in Philosophy Classes
  • Strategies for Incorporating Environmental Stewardship in Science Education
  • Assessing the Benefits of Using Educational Games for Physical Fitness
  • Exploring the Influence of Classroom Decor on Mathematical Interest
  • Investigating the Effectiveness of Virtual Reality in Art Appreciation
  • The Role of Mindful Movement in Enhancing Physical Education Experiences
  • Strategies for Promoting Cultural Competency in Language Arts
  • Analyzing the Impact of Mindful Breathing Exercises on Test Anxiety
  • The Effectiveness of Using Educational Apps for Science Exploration
  • Investigating the Benefits of Peer Teaching in Mathematics Classes
  • Exploring the Influence of Classroom Rituals on Language Arts Skills
  • Assessing the Impact of Mindful Coloring Activities on Creative Expression
  • The Role of Mindful Listening Practices in Improving Public Speaking
  • Investigating the Benefits of Using Learning Stations for History Learning
  • The Effectiveness of Peer Assessment in Improving Writing Skills
  • Strategies for Promoting Digital Literacy in Geography Education
  • Analyzing the Impact of Mindful Eating Practices on Healthy Habits
  • Assessing the Benefits of Using Educational Games for Social Studies
  • The Effectiveness of Mindful Movement Breaks in Science Education
  • Exploring the Influence of Classroom Decor on Writing Motivation
  • Investigating the Role of Mindfulness Practices in Mathematics Anxiety
  • Strategies for Incorporating Financial Literacy in Social Studies
  • Analyzing the Benefits of Using Concept Mapping in Science Labs
  • The Role of Mindful Breathing Exercises in Improving Music Education
  • Exploring the Impact of Virtual Reality on Foreign Language Acquisition
  • Assessing the Benefits of Mindful Movement Breaks in History Classes

Tips for Conducting Action Research in the Classroom

  • Setting Clear Research Goals and Objectives: Clearly define the goals and objectives of the research to ensure a focused and purposeful investigation.
  • Involving Stakeholders in the Research Process: Engage students, parents, and colleagues in the research process to gather diverse perspectives and insights.
  • Collecting and Analyzing Relevant Data: Use a variety of data collection methods, such as surveys, observations, and assessments, to gather comprehensive and meaningful data.
  • Reflecting on Findings and Adjusting Teaching Practices: Regularly reflect on the research findings and be open to adjusting teaching practices based on the insights gained from the research.

Case Studies or Examples

Highlighting successful action research projects provides inspiration and practical insights for teachers. 

Sharing case studies or examples of impactful research can demonstrate the positive outcomes and improvements that can result from well-conducted action research.

In conclusion, action research is a valuable tool for educators seeking to enhance their teaching practices and improve student outcomes. 

Selecting the right topics from a list of topics for action research in the classroom is crucial for the success of action research projects, and teachers should consider alignment with goals, relevance to students, feasibility, and potential impact. 

By exploring a diverse range of topics, teachers can embark on meaningful action research journeys, contributing to the continuous improvement of education.

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example action research questions

Action research in the classroom: A teacher's guide

November 26, 2021

Discover best practices for action research in the classroom, guiding teachers on implementing and facilitating impactful studies in schools.

Main, P (2021, November 26). Action research in the classroom: A teacher's guide. Retrieved from https://www.structural-learning.com/post/action-research-in-the-classroom-a-teachers-guide

What is action research?

Action research is a participatory process designed to empower educators to examine and improve their own practice. It is characterized by a cycle of planning , action, observation, and reflection, with the goal of achieving a deeper understanding of practice within educational contexts. This process encourages a wide range of approaches and can be adapted to various social contexts.

At its core, action research involves critical reflection on one's actions as a basis for improvement. Senior leaders and teachers are guided to reflect on their educational strategies , classroom management, and student engagement techniques. It's a collaborative effort that often involves not just the teachers but also the students and other stakeholders, fostering an inclusive process that values the input of all participants.

The action research process is iterative, with each cycle aiming to bring about a clearer understanding and improvement in practice. It typically begins with the identification of real-world problems within the school environment, followed by a circle of planning where strategies are developed to address these issues. The implementation of these strategies is then observed and documented, often through journals or participant observation, allowing for reflection and analysis.

The insights gained from action research contribute to Organization Development, enhancing the quality of teaching and learning. This approach is strongly aligned with the principles of Quality Assurance in Education, ensuring that the actions taken are effective and responsive to the needs of the school community.

Educators can share their findings in community forums or through publications in journals, contributing to the wider theory about practice . Tertiary education sector often draws on such studies to inform teacher training and curriculum development.

In summary, the significant parts of action research include:

  • A continuous cycle of planning, action, observation, and reflection.
  • A focus on reflective practice to achieve a deeper understanding of educational methodologies.
  • A commitment to inclusive and participatory processes that engage the entire school community.

Creating an action research project

The action research process usually begins with a situation or issue that a teacher wants to change as part of school improvement initiatives .

Teachers get support in changing the ' interesting issue ' into a 'researchable question' and then taking to experiment. The teacher will draw on the outcomes of other researchers to help build actions and reveal the consequences .

Participatory action research is a strategy to the enquiry which has been utilised since the 1940s. Participatory action involves researchers and other participants taking informed action to gain knowledge of a problematic situation and change it to bring a positive effect. As an action researcher , a teacher carries out research . Enquiring into their practice would lead a teacher to question the norms and assumptions that are mostly overlooked in normal school life . Making a routine of inquiry can provide a commitment to learning and professional development . A teacher-researcher holds the responsibility for being the source and agent of change.

Examples of action research projects in education include a teacher working with students to improve their reading comprehension skills , a group of teachers collaborating to develop and implement a new curriculum, or a school administrator conducting a study on the effectiveness of a school-wide behavior management program.

In each of these cases, the research is aimed at improving the educational experience for students and addressing a specific issue or problem within the school community . Action research can be a powerful tool for educators to improve their practice and make a positive impact on their students' learning.

Action research projects

Potential research questions could include:

  • How can dual-coding be used to improve my students memory ?
  • Does mind-mapping lead to creativity?
  • How does Oracy improve my classes writing?
  • How can we advance critical thinking in year 10?
  • How can graphic organisers be used for exam preparation?

Regardless of the types of action research your staff engage in, a solid cycle of inquiry is an essential aspect of the action research spiral. Building in the process of reflection will ensure that key points of learning can be extracted from the action research study.

What is action research

What is an action research cycle?

Action research in education is a cycle of reflection and action inquiry , which follows these steps:

1. Identifying the problem

It is the first stage of action research that starts when a teacher identifies a problem or question that they want to address. To make an a ction research approach successful, the teacher needs to ensure that the questions are the ones 'they' wish to solve. Their questions might involve social sciences, instructional strategies, everyday life and social management issues, guide for students analytical research methods for improving specific student performance or curriculum implementation etc. Teachers may seek help from a wide variety of existing literature , to find strategies and solutions that others have executed to solve any particular problem. It is also suggested to build a visual map or a table of problems, target performances, potential solutions and supporting references in the middle.

2. Developing an Action Plan

After identifying the problem, after r eviewing the relevant literature and describing the vision of how to solve the problem; the next step would be action planning which means to develop a plan of action . Action planning involves studying the literature and brainstorming can be used by the action research planner to create new techniques and strategies that can generate better results of both action learning and action research. One may go back to the visual map or table of contents and reorder or colour-code the potential outcomes. The items in the list can be ranked in order of significance and the amount of time needed for these strategies.

An action plan has the details of how to implement each idea and the factors that may keep them from their vision of success . Identify those factors that cannot be changed –these are the constants in an equation. The focus of action research at the planning stage must remain focused on the variables –the factors that can be changed using actions. An action plan must be how to implement a solution and how one's instruction, management style, and behaviour will affect each of the variables.

Developing a model for action research

3. Data Collection

Before starting to implement a plan of action , the researcher must have a complete understanding of action research and must have knowledge of the type of data that may help in the success of the plan and must assess how to collect that data. For instance, if the goal is to improve class attendance, attendance records must be collected as useful data for the participatory action. If the goal is to improve time management, the data may include students and classroom observations . There are many options to choose from to collect data from. Selecting the most suitable methodology for data collection will provide more meaningful , accurate and valid data. Some sources of data are interviews and observation. Also, one may administer surveys , distribute questionnaires and watch videotapes of the classroom to collect data.

4. Data Analysis and Conclusions

At this action stage, an action researcher analyses the collected data and concludes. It is suggested to assess the data during the predefined process of data collection as it will help refine the action research agenda. If the collected data seems insufficient , the data collection plan must be revised. Data analysis also helps to reflect on what exactly happened. Did the action researcher perform the actions as planned? Were the study outcomes as expected? Which assumptions of the action researcher proved to be incorrect?

Adding details such as tables, opinions, and recommendations can help in identifying trends (correlations and relationships). One must share the findings while analysing data and drawing conclusions . Engaging in conversations for teacher growth is essential; hence, the action researcher would share the findings with other teachers through discussion of action research, who can yield useful feedback. One may also share the findings with students, as they can also provide additional insight . For example, if teachers and students agree with the conclusions of action research for educational change, it adds to the credibility of the data collection plan and analysis. If they don't seem to agree with the data collection plan and analysis , the action researchers may take informed action and refine the data collection plan and reevaluate conclusions .

Making insightful classrooms observations

5. Modifying the Educational Theory and Repeat

After concluding, the process begins again. The teacher can adjust different aspects of the action research approach to theory or make it more specific according to the findings . Action research guides how to change the steps of action research development, how to modify the action plan , and provide better access to resources, start data collection once again, or prepare new questions to ask from the respondents.

Teachers developing professional judgements

6. Report the Findings

Since the main approach to action research involves the informed action to introduce useful change into the classroom or schools, one must not forget to share the outcomes with others. Sharing the outcomes would help to further reflect on the problem and process, and it would help other teachers to use these findings to enhance their professional practice as an educator. One may print book and share the experience with the school leaders, principal, teachers and students as they served as guide to action research. Or, a community action researcher may present community-based action research at a conference so people from other areas can take advantage of this collaborative action. Also, teachers may use a digital storytelling tool to outline their results.

There are plenty of creative tools we can use to bring the research projects to life. We have seen videos, podcasts and research posters all being used to communicate the results of these programs. Community action research is a unique way to present details of the community-related adventures in the teacher profession, cultivate expertise and show how teachers think about education , so it is better to find unique ways to report the findings of community-led action research.

Final thoughts on action-research for teachers

As we have seen, action research can be an effective form of professional development, illuminating the path for teachers and school leaders seeking to refine their craft. This cyclical process of inquiry and reflection is not merely a methodological pursuit but a profound professional journey. The definition of action research, as a systematic inquiry conducted by teachers, administrators, and other stakeholders in the teaching/learning environment, emphasizes the collaborative nature of improving educational strategies and outcomes.

Action research transcends traditional disciplinary practices by immersing educators in the social contexts of their work, prompting them to question and adapt their methods to meet the evolving needs of their students . It is a form of reflective practice that demands critical thinking and flexibility, as one navigates through the iterative stages of planning, acting, observing, and reflecting.

The process of action research is inherently participatory, encouraging educators to engage with their learning communities to address key issues and social issues that impact educational settings. This method empowers professionals within universities and schools alike to take ownership of their learning and development, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and participatory approaches.

In summary, action research encapsulates the essence of what it means to be a learning professional in a dynamic educational landscape. It is the embodiment of a commitment to lifelong learning and a testament to the capacity of educators to enact change . The value of action research lies in its ability to transform practitioners into researchers, where the quest for knowledge becomes a powerful conduit for change and innovation. Thus, for educators at every level, embracing the rigorous yet rewarding path of action research can unveil potent insights and propel educational practice to new heights.

Action research process

Key Papers on Action Research

  • Utilizing Action Research During Student Teaching by James O. Barbre and Brenda J. Buckner (2013): This study explores how action research can be effectively utilized during student teaching to enhance professional pedagogical disposition through active reflection. It emphasizes developing a reflective habit of mind crucial for teachers to be effective in their classrooms and adaptive to the changing needs of their students.
  • Repositioning T eacher Action Research in Science Teacher Education by B. Capobianco and A. Feldman (2010): This paper discusses the promotion of action research as a way for teachers to improve their practice and students' learning for over 50 years, focusing on science education. It highlights the importance of action research in advancing knowledge about teaching and learning in science.
  • Action research and teacher leadership by K. Smeets and P. Ponte (2009): This article reports on a case study into the influence and impact of action research carried out by teachers in a special school. It found that action research not only helps teachers to get to grips with their work in the classroom but also has an impact on the work of others in the school.
  • Teaching about the Nature of Science through History: Action Research in the Classroom by J. Solomon, Jon Duveen, Linda Scot, S. McCarthy (1992): This article reports on 18 months of action research monitoring British pupils' learning about the nature of science using historical aspects. It indicates areas of substantial progress in pupils' understanding of the nature of science.
  • Action Research in the Classroom by V. Baumfield, E. Hall, K. Wall (2008): This comprehensive guide to conducting action research in the classroom covers various aspects, including deciding on a research question, choosing complementary research tools, collecting and interpreting data, and sharing findings. It aims to move classroom inquiry forward and contribute to professional development.

These studies highlight the significant role of action research in enhancing teacher effectiveness, student learning outcomes, and contributing to the broader educational community's knowledge and practices.

example action research questions

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Classroom Practice

Module 3 > Topic 3-A > Developing Action Research Questions

  • 3-A Activities
  • Developing Action Research Questions
  • 3-B Activities
  • Determining Potential Data Sources
  • 3-C Activities
  • Developing an Action Research Plan
  • 3-D Activities
  • The Ethics of Access and Permissions

Action research is different from reflection in that it requires that we formulate research questions in advance. Those questions then are used to guide the action research process through the design and conduct of data collection, the analysis and validation (triangulation) of data, and the writing of the report.

Action research is an intentional act, and the research questions can be used to state our intentions.

When writing action research questions, you should keep the following criteria in mind:

  • They should be broad in scope.
You likely will have 1-3 questions that guide your action research process. It is unlikely that you will have more than 6. These broad questions can then be subdivided into smaller questions, if you like. However, realize that it generally isn’t possible for one project to cover everything. If you spread yourself thin, you’ll learn a little about many things. If you focus, you’ll learn a lot about the things on which you focus. For future improvement, the latter is probably better.
  • They should be research questions (questions about the action) rather than data collection questions (questions to be asked of participants in an interview or on a survey).
Your data collection questions will be derived from the research questions. For example, a research question might be "How do I get my students more involved in class discussion"? whereas in an interview you might ask a student "What would make you want to get more involved in a class discussion"?
  • They should, when answered, have an impact on your practices.
This is the very essence of action research – that it involves practitioners on a data-driven journey through which they explore their own practices and develop action plans for improving those practices. Make the questions personal and reflective of your concerns as a practitioner.
  • They should be answerable.
This point may seem obvious, but it is surprisingly easy to dream up questions that are too big or involve phenomena we can’t readily study through observations, asking questions of others, and reviewing records and documents.

Overview  •  Topic A  •  Topic B  •  Topic C  •  Topic D

© 2008 Performance Learning Systems

edeuphoria

225+ Action Research Topics In Education (Updated 2023)

Action research in education offers a powerful tool for educators to actively engage in improving their teaching practices and student outcomes. By combining research and action, this approach encourages teachers to become reflective practitioners and agents of change within their classrooms and schools. Action research topics in education encompass a wide range of issues that educators can investigate to address specific challenges and enhance their instructional strategies.

From examining the impact of technology integration to exploring innovative assessment methods, action research empowers teachers to develop evidence-based solutions tailored to their unique educational contexts. By conducting small-scale studies, educators can gather data, analyze it, and implement targeted interventions to make tangible improvements in student learning.

In this blog, we will delve into a variety of action research topics in education, exploring how they can empower educators to drive meaningful change and foster a dynamic and effective learning environment for their students.

Format of action research paper in education

action-research-topics-in-education

Please note that this table provides a general outline and can be customized based on the specific requirements and guidelines of your research paper.

300+ For College Students (Updated 2023)

What to consider while selecting action research topics in education

When selecting action research topics in education, it is important to consider several factors to ensure that your research is meaningful, relevant, and feasible. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Personal Interest

Choose action research topics in education that genuinely interests you. When you are passionate about the subject matter, you will be more motivated and engaged throughout the research process.

Educational Context

Consider the specific educational context in which you work or are interested in. Reflect on the challenges, needs, or areas of improvement within that context. Your research should address a problem or issue that is relevant and impactful within the educational setting.

Research Gap

Review existing literature and research in your chosen area to identify any gaps or unanswered questions. Select action research topics in education that contributes to the existing knowledge base and fills a research gap.

Feasibility

Evaluate the feasibility of conducting the research within the available resources, time frame, and constraints. Consider factors such as access to participants, data collection methods, ethical considerations, and potential support from colleagues or institutions.

Relevance and Impact

Choose action research topics in education that have practical implications and can lead to positive changes in teaching practices, student learning, or educational policies. Aim for research that can make a difference in the educational field.

Collaboration Opportunities

Consider if there are opportunities for collaboration with colleagues, researchers, or educational organizations. Collaborative research can provide additional support, expertise, and diverse perspectives.

Ethical Considerations

Ensure that your research topic aligns with ethical guidelines and regulations. Consider the potential impact on participants and ensure their rights, privacy, and confidentiality are protected.

Remember, selecting an action research topic is an important decision, so take the time to thoroughly evaluate and choose a topic that aligns with your goals and the needs of the educational community you serve.

200+ Action research topics in education

  • The impact of technology integration on student engagement in the classroom.
  • Strategies to improve reading comprehension in elementary school students.
  • Enhancing parental involvement in student learning and academic success.
  • Investigating the effectiveness of cooperative learning strategies in promoting peer interaction and collaboration.
  • Addressing the achievement gap in mathematics between different student groups.
  • Examining the impact of inclusive education on the academic and social development of students with disabilities.
  • Enhancing critical thinking skills through project-based learning.
  • Implementing differentiated instruction to meet the diverse needs of students in the classroom.
  • Investigating the effects of homework on student learning and academic performance.
  • Promoting positive classroom behavior and reducing disruptive behaviors.
  • Assessing the effectiveness of teacher feedback in improving student writing skills.
  • Strategies to promote a growth mindset and enhance student motivation.
  • Examining the impact of physical activity on student concentration and academic performance.
  • Enhancing teacher-student relationships and its impact on student engagement and achievement.
  • Investigating the effects of arts integration on student creativity and academic achievement.
  • Strategies to support English language learners in mainstream classrooms.
  • Examining the impact of peer tutoring on student learning and academic achievement.
  • Enhancing teacher collaboration and its impact on instructional practices and student outcomes.
  • Investigating the effectiveness of inquiry-based science instruction in promoting student understanding.
  • Promoting gender equity in STEM education.
  • Examining the impact of mindfulness practices on student well-being and academic success.
  • Strategies for reducing test anxiety and promoting test-taking skills.
  • Investigating the effects of the classroom environment on student learning and engagement.
  • Enhancing student self-regulation skills through metacognitive strategies.
  • Promoting multicultural education and inclusivity in the classroom.
  • Examining the impact of flipped classroom models on student learning outcomes.
  • Strategies for integrating technology effectively in early childhood education.
  • Investigating the effects of outdoor education on student engagement and academic achievement.
  • Enhancing teacher professional development programs to improve instructional practices.
  • Promoting environmental education and sustainable practices in schools.
  • Examining the impact of social-emotional learning programs on student behavior and well-being.
  • Strategies for supporting students with ADHD in the classroom.
  • Investigating the effects of classroom management strategies on student behavior and academic performance.
  • Enhancing parental involvement in early childhood education settings.
  • Promoting digital literacy skills among students.
  • Examining the impact of peer assessment on student learning and achievement.
  • Strategies for fostering creativity and innovation in the classroom.
  • Investigating the effects of inclusive literature on promoting empathy and cultural understanding.
  • Enhancing the use of formative assessment in the classroom.
  • Promoting critical media literacy skills among students.
  • Examining the impact of outdoor learning on student engagement and academic achievement.
  • Strategies for promoting positive social skills and reducing bullying in schools.
  • Investigating the effects of flexible seating arrangements on student behavior and learning outcomes.
  • Enhancing the use of educational technology in special education settings.
  • Promoting student self-efficacy and academic motivation.
  • Examining the impact of project-based learning on student problem-solving skills.
  • Strategies for promoting positive school climate and student well-being.
  • Investigating the effects of parental involvement on student homework completion and academic performance.
  • Enhancing teacher feedback practices to improve student learning and achievement.
  • Promoting inclusive practices for students with diverse cultural backgrounds.
  • Examining the impact of arts education on student creativity and academic success.
  • Strategies for supporting students with learning disabilities
  • Investigating the effects of gamification on student motivation and engagement.
  • Enhancing collaborative learning in online education settings.
  • Promoting effective study habits and time management skills among students.
  • Examining the impact of parental involvement on early literacy skills development.
  • Strategies for promoting positive teacher-student relationships in high school settings.
  • Investigating the effects of mindfulness practices on reducing stress and anxiety in students.
  • Enhancing student self-esteem and self-confidence through targeted interventions.
  • Promoting gender equality in science education.
  • Examining the impact of teacher-led professional learning communities on instructional practices and student outcomes.
  • Strategies for supporting students with autism spectrum disorder in inclusive classrooms.
  • Investigating the effects of project-based learning on student problem-solving skills in mathematics.
  • Enhancing cultural competency among educators to meet the needs of diverse student populations.
  • Promoting digital citizenship and online safety education.
  • Examining the impact of restorative justice practices on reducing disciplinary incidents and promoting a positive school climate.
  • Strategies for integrating social justice education across the curriculum.
  • Investigating the effects of parental involvement on student transitions from elementary to middle school.
  • Enhancing teacher collaboration for effective interdisciplinary instruction.
  • Promoting global citizenship and cross-cultural understanding in the classroom.
  • Examining the impact of music education on student cognitive development and academic performance.
  • Strategies for supporting students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in mainstream classrooms.
  • Investigating the effects of cooperative learning strategies on improving students’ social skills.
  • Enhancing the use of educational technology for students with visual impairments.
  • Promoting inclusive practices for students with diverse learning needs.
  • Examining the impact of teacher-led professional development on instructional practices and student outcomes.
  • Strategies for promoting positive classroom behavior in early childhood settings.
  • Investigating the effects of growth mindset interventions on student resilience and academic achievement.
  • Enhancing parent-teacher communication for improved student support and academic success.
  • Promoting environmental sustainability education in primary schools.
  • Examining the impact of outdoor play on children’s physical and cognitive development.
  • Strategies for supporting students with English language learning difficulties.
  • Investigating the effects of mindfulness practices on reducing test anxiety in students.
  • Enhancing the use of educational technology for students with learning disabilities.
  • Promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills in mathematics education.
  • Examining the impact of peer mentoring programs on student academic and social-emotional development.
  • Strategies for creating inclusive classrooms for students with hearing impairments.
  • Investigating the effects of student-led conferences on student ownership of learning.
  • Enhancing the use of formative assessment for personalized instruction.
  • Promoting positive classroom discourse and student participation.
  • Examining the impact of outdoor experiential learning on student environmental awareness and action.
  • Strategies for supporting students with emotional and behavioral disorders in inclusive settings.
  • Investigating the effects of teacher self-reflection on instructional practices and student outcomes.
  • Enhancing the use of assistive technology for students with physical disabilities.
  • Promoting media literacy education to develop critical media consumers.
  • Examining the impact of service-learning on student civic engagement and social responsibility.
  • Strategies for creating inclusive classrooms for students with specific learning disabilities.
  • Investigating the effects of inquiry-based science instruction on student scientific inquiry skills.
  • Enhancing teacher-parent partnerships for collaborative support of student learning.
  • Promoting cultural diversity education in secondary schools.
  • Examining the impact of cooperative learning on student academic achievement in science education.
  • Strategies for promoting inclusive practices for students with speech and language disorders.
  • Investigating the effects of flipped classroom models on student engagement and learning outcomes in social studies.
  • Enhancing teacher feedback practices to improve student writing skills in English language arts.
  • Promoting social-emotional learning through mindfulness-based interventions in elementary schools.
  • Examining the impact of project-based learning on student creativity and problem-solving skills in the arts.
  • Strategies for supporting students with executive functioning difficulties in the classroom.
  • Investigating the effects of differentiated instruction on student motivation and academic achievement in mathematics.
  • Enhancing parental involvement in supporting early literacy development at home.
  • Promoting inclusive practices for students with physical disabilities in physical education classes.
  • Examining the impact of teacher-student relationships on student attendance and classroom behavior.
  • Strategies for promoting positive peer relationships and reducing social isolation in middle school.
  • Investigating the effects of drama-based pedagogy on student engagement and understanding in literature studies.
  • Enhancing the use of educational technology for students with learning difficulties in computer science education.
  • Promoting character education and ethical decision-making in schools.
  • Examining the impact of teacher self-efficacy on instructional practices and student outcomes.
  • Strategies for supporting students with English language learning difficulties in content area classes.
  • Investigating the effects of arts integration on student motivation and academic achievement in history education.
  • Enhancing family-school partnerships for students with special educational needs.
  • Promoting critical digital literacy skills for responsible online information consumption.
  • Examining the impact of inclusive physical education on student attitudes towards fitness and physical activity.
  • Strategies for supporting students with dyslexia in reading instruction.
  • Investigating the effects of outdoor education on student environmental attitudes and behaviors.
  • Enhancing the use of educational technology for students with autism spectrum disorder.
  • Promoting career readiness and employability skills in high school education.
  • Examining the impact of parent-led reading interventions on early literacy skills in kindergarten.
  • Strategies for promoting positive teacher-student relationships in online learning environments.
  • Investigating the effects of arts integration on student creativity and academic achievement in science education.
  • Enhancing teacher collaboration for effective co-teaching in inclusive classrooms.
  • Promoting global perspectives and intercultural understanding in social studies education.
  • Examining the impact of cooperative learning on student social skills and peer relationships.
  • Strategies for supporting students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in physical education classes.
  • Investigating the effects of project-based learning on student problem-solving skills in computer science.
  • Enhancing cultural competence among educators for working with diverse student populations.
  • Promoting digital citizenship and online safety in digital media literacy education.
  • Examining the impact of restorative practices on reducing disciplinary incidents and fostering a positive school climate.
  • Strategies for supporting students with emotional and behavioral challenges in mainstream classrooms.
  • Investigating the effects of growth mindset interventions on student academic resilience in mathematics education.
  • Enhancing parent-teacher communication for effective student support and academic success.
  • Promoting environmental sustainability education in secondary schools.
  • Examining the impact of outdoor experiential learning on student STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) interest and career aspirations.
  • Strategies for creating inclusive classrooms for students with visual impairments.
  • Investigating the effects of student-led conferences on student self-evaluation and goal setting.
  • Enhancing the use of formative assessment for personalized instruction in physical education.
  • Promoting positive classroom management strategies.
  • Examining the impact of cooperative learning on student academic achievement in foreign language education.
  • Strategies for promoting inclusive practices for students with autism spectrum disorder in inclusive classrooms.
  • Investigating the effects of blended learning models on student engagement and learning outcomes in mathematics.
  • Enhancing teacher feedback practices to improve student oral communication skills in language arts.
  • Promoting social-emotional learning through mindfulness-based interventions in high schools.
  • Examining the impact of project-based learning on student creativity and problem-solving skills in technology education.
  • Strategies for supporting students with learning difficulties in inclusive science classrooms.
  • Investigating the effects of differentiated instruction on student motivation and academic achievement in social studies.
  • Enhancing parental involvement in supporting numeracy development at home.
  • Promoting inclusive practices for students with sensory impairments in inclusive classrooms.
  • Examining the impact of teacher-student relationships on student motivation and academic achievement in physical education.
  • Strategies for promoting positive peer relationships and reducing bullying in high schools.
  • Investigating the effects of arts integration on student motivation and academic achievement in mathematics education.
  • Enhancing the use of educational technology for students with learning difficulties in science education.
  • Promoting character education and ethical decision-making in elementary schools.
  • Examining the impact of teacher self-efficacy on instructional practices and student outcomes in music education.
  • Strategies for supporting students with English language learning difficulties in mathematics classes.
  • Investigating the effects of arts integration on student creativity and academic achievement in social-emotional learning.
  • Enhancing family-school partnerships for students with special educational needs in inclusive settings.
  • Promoting critical digital literacy skills for responsible online communication in language arts education.
  • Examining the impact of inclusive physical education on student attitudes towards physical fitness and well-being.
  • Strategies for supporting students with dyscalculia in mathematics instruction.
  • Investigating the effects of outdoor education on student environmental knowledge and sustainability practices.
  • Enhancing the use of educational technology for students with hearing impairments in inclusive classrooms.
  • Promoting career exploration and development in middle school education.
  • Examining the impact of parent-led science experiments on student interest and learning outcomes in science education.
  • Strategies for promoting positive teacher-student relationships in virtual learning environments.
  • Investigating the effects of arts integration on student creativity and academic achievement in language arts.
  • Enhancing teacher collaboration for effective co-planning and instructional delivery in inclusive classrooms.
  • Promoting global citizenship and cultural competence in foreign language education.
  • Examining the impact of cooperative learning on student social-emotional development and well-being.
  • Strategies for supporting students with physical disabilities in adaptive physical education classes.
  • Investigating the effects of project-based learning on student problem-solving skills in engineering education.
  • Enhancing cultural competence among educators for working with diverse student populations in social studies.
  • Promoting digital literacy skills for responsible online research and information evaluation.
  • Examining the impact of restorative practices on reducing conflicts and promoting positive relationships in middle schools.
  • Strategies for supporting students with emotional and behavioral challenges in inclusive classrooms.
  • Investigating the effects of growth mindset interventions on student academic resilience in language arts.
  • Enhancing parent-teacher communication for effective collaboration and student support in mathematics education.
  • Promoting environmental sustainability education in primary schools through cross-curricular integration.
  • Examining the impact of outdoor experiential learning on student ecological literacy and environmental stewardship.
  • Strategies for creating inclusive classrooms for students with cognitive impairments.
  • Investigating the effects of student-led conferences on student self-reflection and goal-setting in science education.
  • Enhancing the use of formative assessment for personalized instruction in social studies.
  • Promoting positive classroom management strategies for students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
  • Examining the impact of cooperative learning on student academic achievement in physical sciences.
  • Strategies for promoting inclusive practices for students with speech and language difficulties in inclusive classrooms.
  • Investigating the effects of blended learning models on student engagement and learning outcomes in language arts.
  • Enhancing teacher feedback practices to improve student presentation skills in communication studies.
  • Promoting social-emotional learning through mindfulness-based interventions in middle schools.
  • Examining the impact of project-based learning on student creativity and problem-solving skills in fine arts.
  • Strategies for supporting students with learning difficulties in inclusive social-emotional learning programs.
  • Investigating the effects of differentiated instruction on student motivation and academic achievement in physical education.
  • Enhancing parental involvement in supporting STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education at home.
  • Promoting inclusive practices for students with intellectual disabilities in inclusive classrooms.
  • Examining the impact of teacher-student relationships on student motivation and academic achievement in music education.
  • Strategies for promoting positive peer relationships and fostering social-emotional development in high schools.
  • Investigating the effects of arts integration on student motivation and academic achievement in physical sciences.
  • Enhancing the use of educational technology for students with learning difficulties in social studies education.
  • Promoting character education and ethical decision-making in secondary schools.
  • Examining the impact of teacher self-efficacy on instructional practices and student outcomes in physical education.
  • Strategies for supporting students with English language learning difficulties in science classes.
  • Investigating the effects of arts integration on student creativity and academic achievement in physical education.
  • Enhancing family-school partnerships for students with special educational needs in inclusive physical education settings.
  • Promoting critical digital literacy skills for responsible online communication in social studies education.
  • Strategies for supporting students with dysgraphia in writing instruction.
  • Investigating the effects of outdoor education on student environmental knowledge and sustainable practices in science education.
  • Enhancing the use of educational technology for students with visual impairments in inclusive classrooms.
  • Promoting career exploration and development in high school education.
  • Examining the impact of parent-led math activities on student interest and learning outcomes in mathematics education.
  • Investigating the effects of arts integration on student creativity and academic achievement in social sciences.
  • Enhancing teacher collaboration for effective co-planning and instructional delivery in inclusive physical education settings.
  • Promoting global citizenship and cultural competence in history education.
  • Examining the impact of cooperative learning on student social-emotional development and well-being in language arts.
  • Strategies for supporting students with physical disabilities in inclusive arts education classes.
  • Investigating the effects of project-based learning on student problem-solving skills in computer programming education.
  • Enhancing cultural competence among educators for working with diverse student populations in mathematics education.
  • Promoting digital literacy skills for responsible online communication and information sharing.
  • Examining the impact of restorative practices on reducing conflicts and promoting positive relationships in high schools.
  • Strategies for supporting students with emotional and behavioral challenges in inclusive language arts classrooms.
  • Investigating the effects of growth mindset interventions on student academic resilience in social sciences.
  • Enhancing parent-teacher communication for effective collaboration and student support in science education.
  • Promoting environmental sustainability education in elementary schools through interdisciplinary integration.

Tips to write appealing action research paper in education

Here are some tips to write an appealing action research paper in education:

  • Select a Relevant and Engaging Topic: Choose action research topics in education that is relevant to the field of education and aligns with your interests and goals. Select a topic that has practical implications and can contribute to improving educational practices.
  • Clearly Define the Problem: Clearly define the problem or issue you want to address through your action research. Provide a concise and focused problem statement that highlights the specific area you aim to investigate.
  • Set Clear Objectives: State clear and measurable objectives for your research. Identify what you want to achieve through your study and how you plan to measure your outcomes.
  • Conduct a Literature Review: Conduct a thorough review of existing literature related to your research topic. Identify gaps in current knowledge and highlight how your research will contribute to filling those gaps.
  • Use a Rigorous Research Design: Choose an appropriate research design that aligns with your research objectives. Consider whether a quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods approach is most suitable for your study.
  • Collect and Analyze Data: Collect relevant data through appropriate methods, such as surveys, interviews, observations, or document analysis. Use rigorous data analysis techniques to derive meaningful findings from your data.
  • Reflect and Take Action: Reflect on your findings and consider their implications for educational practice. Based on your findings, develop actionable recommendations or interventions that can be implemented to address the identified problem.
  • Write Clearly and Concisely: Present your research in a clear and concise manner. Use appropriate academic language and structure your paper logically. Clearly explain your methodology, findings, and conclusions.
  • Support Findings with Evidence: Use evidence from your data analysis to support your findings and conclusions. Use graphs, charts, or quotes from participants to enhance the credibility of your research.
  • Discuss Limitations and Future Directions: Acknowledge the limitations of your study and discuss areas for future research. Address any potential biases or challenges that may have influenced your findings.
  • Consider the Audience: Keep in mind the intended audience for your research paper, which may include educators, researchers, or policymakers. Write in a way that engages and appeals to your target audience.
  • Revise and Edit: Proofread your paper for any grammatical or spelling errors. Revise your content to ensure clarity and coherence. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to improve the quality of your paper.

Remember, an appealing action research paper in education is one that not only presents valuable findings but also offers practical insights and recommendations for improving educational practices.

In conclusion, action research topics in education provide a powerful framework for addressing real-world issues and improving teaching and learning practices. This research approach empowers educators to take an active role in identifying challenges, implementing interventions, and evaluating their impact within their own classrooms or educational settings. 

By engaging in systematic inquiry, educators can generate valuable insights, evidence-based strategies, and meaningful changes that positively influence student outcomes. Action research promotes a reflective and collaborative approach, encouraging teachers to continuously refine their instructional methods, adapt to diverse student needs, and create inclusive learning environments. 

Ultimately, action research in education empowers educators to be agents of change, fostering innovation and improvement in education while enhancing student engagement, achievement, and well-being.

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Best action research questions examples

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Action research is a systematic approach used by researchers to investigate and solve practical problems in various fields. It involves identifying an issue, developing a plan of action, implementing interventions, and evaluating the outcomes. One of the crucial steps in conducting action research is formulating research questions that guide the inquiry process. These questions serve as a compass, helping researchers focus their efforts and collect relevant data. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of action research question examples to inspire your own research endeavors.

When formulating action research questions, it is essential to ensure they are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). This criterion helps researchers create questions that are clear, concise, and actionable. By asking the right questions, researchers can gather meaningful data, analyze it effectively, and make informed decisions based on their findings. The examples provided below cover a wide range of topics and fields, demonstrating the versatility of action research in various contexts.

Whether you are an educator, healthcare professional, social worker, or business manager, these action research question examples can serve as a starting point for your own research projects. Remember to tailor the questions to your specific context and adapt them based on the problem you are addressing. By using these examples as inspiration, you can embark on a journey of discovery and improvement, ultimately contributing to positive change in your professional field.

See these action research question examples:

  • How does implementing a mindfulness program in schools affect students’ academic performance?
  • What strategies can be implemented to reduce employee turnover in a manufacturing company?
  • How does parental involvement impact student achievement in elementary schools?
  • What interventions can be implemented to improve patient satisfaction in a hospital setting?
  • How does incorporating technology into classroom instruction enhance student engagement?
  • What are the most effective methods for promoting mental health awareness in the workplace?
  • How does implementing a rewards program influence customer loyalty in a retail store?
  • What strategies can be implemented to reduce bullying incidents in middle schools?
  • How does providing professional development opportunities for teachers impact student outcomes?
  • What interventions can be implemented to improve communication and collaboration among healthcare professionals?
  • How does implementing a recycling program in an office setting reduce waste and promote sustainability?
  • What strategies can be implemented to increase employee productivity in a remote work environment?
  • How does incorporating physical activity breaks into the school day impact student behavior and focus?
  • What interventions can be implemented to improve customer service in a restaurant?
  • How does implementing a mentorship program for new employees affect their job satisfaction and retention?
  • What are the most effective methods for promoting healthy eating habits among children?
  • How does providing access to technology resources at home impact student achievement in low-income communities?
  • What strategies can be implemented to reduce medication errors in a healthcare setting?
  • How does incorporating arts education into the curriculum enhance student creativity and critical thinking?
  • What interventions can be implemented to improve workplace diversity and inclusion?
  • How does implementing a peer tutoring program impact student learning outcomes?
  • What are the most effective methods for preventing substance abuse among teenagers?
  • How does providing feedback and recognition to employees influence their job performance?
  • What strategies can be implemented to improve time management skills among college students?
  • How does incorporating environmental education into the curriculum promote ecological awareness among students?
  • What interventions can be implemented to reduce patient wait times in a healthcare clinic?
  • How does implementing a financial literacy program in high schools impact students’ financial decision-making?
  • What are the most effective methods for promoting teamwork and collaboration in a corporate setting?
  • How does providing access to mental health resources in schools support students’ emotional well-being?
  • What strategies can be implemented to reduce energy consumption in a residential community?
  • How does incorporating project-based learning into the curriculum enhance student engagement and problem-solving skills?
  • What interventions can be implemented to improve patient adherence to medication regimens?
  • How does implementing a conflict resolution program in schools impact students’ interpersonal skills?
  • What are the most effective methods for promoting inclusive practices in early childhood education?
  • How does providing flexible work arrangements influence employee satisfaction and work-life balance?
  • What strategies can be implemented to enhance parent-teacher communication in schools?
  • How does incorporating physical fitness programs into the workplace improve employees’ health and well-being?
  • What interventions can be implemented to reduce school dropout rates among at-risk students?
  • How does implementing a digital literacy program in libraries enhance patrons’ technological skills?
  • What are the most effective methods for promoting cultural diversity in a community organization?
  • How does providing training on diversity and inclusion impact employees’ attitudes and behaviors?
  • What strategies can be implemented to improve time management skills among healthcare professionals?
  • How does incorporating music education into the curriculum enhance students’ cognitive abilities?
  • What interventions can be implemented to reduce workplace stress and burnout?
  • How does implementing a peer mediation program in schools impact students’ conflict resolution skills?

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Perhaps one of the most challenging aspects of research is identifying a useful, interesting, and manageable question or topic.

According to Eileen Ferrance at the Northeast and Islands Regional Educational Laboratory at Brown University, good are meaningful, concise, and higher-order questions that have not already been answered. Further, they should be of interest to the researcher and have the potential to lead to improved student learning.

: sample Action Research topics using drawings as a primary data source.

: examples of Action Research by practicing teachers using a wide variety of research methodologies.

Get ideas and suggestions on developing your own research questions.

Whatever action research topic you decide to study, remember that it should enable you to take meaningful action. In addition, it should also be interesting enough to keep you engaged and motivated as you work through the process. Finally, your research should allow you to improve your teaching and your ability to help students learn and be successful.


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Just Practicing

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Just Practicing

Forming a research question for action research

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The minute I wrote that title, I realised that in a strict sense it is a little back to front.  We all know that our choice of research methodology should follow the definition of our aims, objectives and research question – form should follow function!  At least that is what the text books say.

But I’ll readily confess that I became a research student because I wanted the opportunity to learn more about and experience action research – others do that too for example some embark on a PhD because they want to home their quantitative data analysis skills.  So the ‘search’ for a research question and defining aims and objectives is also informed by the sort of knowledge, skills and experience I want to develop through my PhD and ultimately the sort of researcher I want to be.

Although I produced a draft research proposal last July, I felt uncomfortable about the research question I’d included, it didn’t seem to home in on what was interesting to me.  So I’ve been trying to focus on what an action research question looks like – unlike other forms of research there aren’t lots of published research proposals/protocols that you can easily locate so it is hard to get a feel for what you are trying to emulate.  And, action research books just simply say ‘form your research question’ as if it isn’t a problematic thing to do.

The main problem comes with the ‘dual’ function of action research – it is simultaneously a process to generate knowledge AND a process to improve a situation.  This distinction is described in different ways in the literature.  I have two favourites…

In literature discussing doing action research for academic accreditation (e.g. Zuber-Skerritt and Perry (2002); Zuber-Skerritt and Fletcher (2007); Coghlan and Brannick (2014)), a distinction is made between the Thesis Action Research which is carried out independently by the research candidate and the Core Action Research which is carried out collaboratively.  The ‘core action research’ is understood as being the fieldwork phase of the ‘thesis action research’.  The Thesis action research kind of operates at a meta-level – i.e. research on the core action research.  This means that the ‘thesis action research’ can have a different research question to the ‘core action research’.

The second way of making the distinction is even more powerful and quite exciting because it builds on the work of Checkland who developed soft systems methodology so it feels quite systemsy.  It appears in information system research discussions of action research (e.g. McKay and Marshall 2001, 2007).  The authors argue that action research has dual imperatives – what they refer to as a research imperative AND a problem solving imperative*.  Drawing on the idea of action research as a cyclical process, they argue that the dual imperatives mean that two interlinked cycles are operating – a research cycle and a problem solving cycle each driven by their own interests, aims and objectives and therefore different understandings of progress and success.  Importantly, they argue that it is important not to conflate the Methodology for the research (i.e. action research) with the Problem solving methodology (which could be any one of a range of organisational development or change management methodologies including systemsy ones like SSM or systemic inquiry).  The balance of the two imperatives is really important – focus on the problem solving imperative, then it becomes more like consultancy than research with potential risks to the ‘rigour’ of your findings.  Whereas focussing on the research imperative can lead to stakeholders in the research setting and participants feeling ‘done to’.

Taking the two distinctions together offers another helpful insight.  In my case, the research imperative is fulfilled independently as the ‘thesis action research’ – I am its owner and its customer is the academic community.  The ‘knowledge’ it generates is judged through the academic lens of validity, reliability and so on with all the caveats that those words have when drawing on qualitative data.  The problem solving imperative is fulfilled by the participants together as a collaborative problem solving process.  The participants are the co-owners and they and their stakeholders are the main customers.  It can be referred to generally as the core action research – but in itself it needs to be understood through the lens of creating improvement/change with learning and knowing-in-action being more important than formal propositional knowledge.  The change could be understood as ‘new’ learning generated through a process of social learning and/or it could be understood as new procedures, new practices, new ‘systems’ etc.

Back to the Checkland connection.  According to Checkland, research consists of a framework of ideas (F), which are employed via a methodology (M) to investigate an area of interest (A).  As a result of the research, learning will take place about F, and/or M and/or A.  McKay and Marshall (2001, 2007) argue that the dual imperatives of action research result in an adaptation to this general model.  The setting in which the research takes place has a ‘real world’ problem situation (P) which enables the researcher to find out about the area of interest (A).  As already mention there are two methodologies in use – the research methodology (MR) and the problem solving methodology (MPS).  This means the research can tell us about any combination of:

P – the real world problem situation A – the area of research interest F – the framework of ideas MR – i.e. action research (a methodological contribution) MPS – i.e. the chosen methodology to improve the situation

And so, opens up different options for framing your research aim(s) and question(s)…

It could focus on the area of research interest (A).  The setting for the research is one example – a case study if you like – of the research phenomenon of interest.  The research is about understanding and exploring this situation.  You could do this by other research methods but the value of using action research is you take a dynamic perspective of the forces and factors that shape the phenonenon of interest and you go back to test your ideas as the research proceeds.  As Lewin is cited as saying – you can’t understand a system unless you try to change it.  In my case then a research question is something like “What shapes policy work practice and its development in English local government?”

It could focus on the real world problem situation (P).  In my case the question would be something like “What is policy work practice like in local authority X?”  In my view this could by a risky route to take – whilst providing a thick description of the real world problem situation could be valuable to help with the generalisable lessons, there is a risk that the findings in themselves aren’t useful to third parties i.e. those not directly involved.  From the point of view of the research imperative, the Thesis has to make some attempt to go beyond the specific case and generalise.  However, this question could well be a natural part of the process in the research setting whereby the participants inquire – it belongs to the problem solving imperative, not the research one.

It could focus on the research methodology (MR).  This is more focused on making a methodological contribution and would be something like “What are the value and limitations of action research in understanding policy work practice and its development?”.  Most research will include an element of this – potentially in an implicit way – as the strengths and limitations of the research are generally included as part of the Thesis or the research articles.  The ‘answer’ comes as much from rigorous reflection on the experience of the process as it does from empirical data.  This feels like a ‘sideline’ – something to be aware of but not the main purpose of the research.

It could focus on the ‘problem solving’ methodology (MPS).  This is more like an evaluation – an assessment of whether the ‘problem solving’ methodology is useful and creates a ‘better’ situation.  It has parallels with an experiment – you hypothesise that using problem solving methodology X will create an improvement in the situation – and your research therefore focusses on evaluating what changes if any arise and if so why.  From the reading I have done so far I think this is a key way that action research is framed – “a what happens if I” orientation.  In my case then a research question would be something like “Is [methodology] an effective way of making improvements to policy work practice in English local government?”  This of course throws up other issues in terms of what constitutes an improvement, what constitutes effective and who gets to define that.

It could be on the framework of ideas (F).  I’m struggling to articulate this a little more and maybe that is because I have yet to really identify,  home in on, and justify my framework of ideas.  In general I know that they all seem to fall into the area of things that feel systemsy – particularly the soft and critical traditions and social learning.  McKay and Marshall (2001, 2007) don’t seem to suggest that there are different Fs for the research imperative and the problem solving imperative, but in theory they may not be congruent (probably leading to some cognitive discomfort!).  So I know I have some work to do here articulating my F for myself and others.   But a tentative research question about my tentative F would be something like “To what extent and in what ways are systems thinking and social learning helpful ideas in researching and developing policy work practice?”

Of course, there is no reason why these questions can’t be combined in a research project – making knowledge contributions and methodological ones.  But you’d need to design your data generation and analysis differently to answer each question so in my view I need to major on one – make it my primary question – and then treat anything else as a useful ‘by product’ of  the process.

The distinction of research imperative and problem solving imperative has also helped me develop clarity on how to write my research proposal.  Again books can be a little light on action research proposals and what may be different in them from research proposals from other disciplines.  But a general observation I have made is that some seem to imply there is no real difference whereas others imply a great deal of difference…but what I have realised is that this is all about whether you frame your proposal through the lens of the research imperative or the problem solving imperative.

Framing a proposal through the lens of the research imperative is more consistent with ‘traditional’ research proposals.  You set the scene by talking about what is already known about your phenomenon of interest, what the debates are and where the gaps are.  You then talk about what your research aims to do, what its question is.  The problem solving imperative surfaces more when you talk about the setting in which the research will take place – what is the problematic situation that participants will be addressing there and how that offers an opportunity to generate data that will help you with your research aim and question.

Framing a proposal through the lens of the problem solving imperative is more like a business case for change.  You start by describing the real world instance of the situation perceived as problematic in its wider context – why it needs to be improved and how you are going to set about doing that and later explain how the activities of research will complement and enhance that improvement/change journey.  The more I think about this the more I realise it isn’t a RESEARCH proposal at all – it is a change or improvement proposal.  In my case, this isn’t what my university wants but it could be what the stakeholders in the setting where I am going to do the research want.  I think it gets confused a little in books because in some cases universities are asking for this type of proposal.  One of the issues I have worried about with my research proposal is that I define too much up front, by myself, rather than involve the participants themselves in the ‘proposal’ – what I may find as I embark on the core action research is that this type of proposal is generated as part of the ‘action’ that the participants choose to take together.  As I said above this is their process, they are the owners not me – I am their facilitator or helper.

*I’m a little uncomfortable with the framing of ‘problem solving’ here – I’d prefer to say something like ‘improving a situation perceived as problematic’ – but that is quite clumsy and wordy.  So I am using ‘problem solving’ as the authors do but with some caveats about taking the words too literally.

Coghlan, D. and Brannick, T. (2014), Doing action research in your own organisation Fourth Edition., London: Sage Publications.

McKay, J. and Marshall, P. (2001), The dual imperatives of action research. Information Technology & People , 14(1), pp.46–59.

McKay, J. and Marshall, P. (2007), Driven by two masters, serving both: the interplay of problem solving and research in information systems action research projects. In Kock, N. (Editor), Information Systems Action Research: An applied view of emerging concepts and methods. New York: Springer US, pp. 131–158.

Zuber‐Skerritt, O. and Fletcher, M. (2007), The quality of an action research thesis in the social sciences. Quality Assurance in Education , 15(4), pp.413–436.

Zuber-Skerritt, O. and Perry, C. (2002), Action research within organisations and university thesis writing. The Learning Organization , 9(3/4), p.171.

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Examples

Action Research

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example action research questions

Understanding and analyzing your actions is vital for self-improvement. It would help if you recognized how your actions affect your future. Examining your progress is called action research. This method applies to psychology, marketing, and education. Action research is used by teachers to find solutions to problem areas or formulate research plans for factors that need improvement. The results of action research are useful to the participants since it helps them better themselves for the next tasks. This research has guaranteed relevance because the researchers get to decide what the focus of the study is. They are also the ones who will make use of the results.

Every action someone makes has a ripple effect on the future. One small act of kindness can lead to great fortunes. Likewise, any lousy act can turn into something terrible. A person’s mistakes are what makes him who he is today. Ziad K. Abdelnour even said, “Never erase your past. It shapes who you are today and will help you to be the person you’ll be tomorrow.” For one to grow as a person, one needs to be able to recognize one’s mistakes and learn from them. Perhaps you need to create an action plan or conduct action research to help yourself out.

The Power of Three

Not all types of research are useful for all fields; some are effective only on specific studies. Luckily, action research can serve many disciplines. Although most applicable to educational research settings, the action research design works for an endless variation of studies. This research approach can also be used by individuals or by groups of researchers. The difference in researchers also signifies a difference in purpose.

Reflective Practitioner When an individual practitioner decides to look into his way of teaching, he unconsciously analyzes his actions to improve the instruction. The more he studies himself, the more he masters the science and process of it all.

Large-Scale Progress In education, as the school progresses, the students progress with it. That is why many schools continuously seek ways to strengthen their instruction to build schoolwide improvement. When instructors come together to fix a single issue, organizational growth is bound to occur.

Professional Culture Medical and educational professionals don’t always agree on particular methods. Sometimes they need to do what they think is appropriate. The only important thing is that they lean towards the same organizational goal . With their differing approaches, they can share their own discoveries to their colleagues, making for more holistic improvement.

13+ Action Research Examples

The best way to improve yourself is by analyzing your actions and making adjustments along the way. This is a research method called action research. To help you further understand what action research is, here are multiple action research examples you can check out.

1. Research Action Plan Template

Research Action Plan Template

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2. Research Corrective Action Plan Template

Research Corrective Action Plan Template

Size: 26 KB

3. Research Project Action Plan Template

Research Project Action Plan Template

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4. Sample Action Research Example

Sample Action Research Example

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Action Orientation Research Example

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6. Art Article Action Research Example

Art Article ActionResearch Example

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7. Basic Action Research Example

Basic Action Research Example

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8. Five Phases of Action Research Example

Five Phases of Action Research

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9. Standard Action Research Example

Standard Action Research Example

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10. Action Research in Teacher Education Example

Action Reseach in Teacher Education Example

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11. Action Research Support Notes Example

Action Research Support Notes

Size: 441 KB

12. Handbook for Action Research Example

Handbook for Action Research

13. Action Research in PDF

Action Research in PDF

Size: 52 KB

14. Action Research for Professional Development Example

Action Research for Professional Development

Size: 25 KB

Segments of a Cycle

Action research is an approach that lets an individual study one’s action to help enhance their basic skills and knowledge of a given task or topic. There is a cycle that this research follows to make continuous improvements to a group or individual. As with any research projects, there are steps you need to follow to accomplish your project goals.

1. Selecting Focus

The action research cycle begins with identifying an area that you think needs improvement. Only the researcher can assess if the research focus is worth the time. The outcome of the focus should be the betterment of a practitioner’s work. Thus, picking the right center is extremely important.

2. Clarifying Theories

The next step is figuring out what approach works best for the problem area. You can try out different methods to solve your problem. This way, you can identify what process flow you are going to follow for the duration of the research. Studying various methods, beliefs, and theories can help you decide what you feel is most effective.

3. Collecting data

Your data should be valid and reliable to guarantee improvement. That is why it would be wrong to just stick to one source of data. If you can find various academic references to answer any of your questions, you should utilize them. This way, you can match the right technique with the unique qualities your research holds.

4. Analyzing Data

When conducting data analysis , you need not use complex calculations and statistical methods; you just need to examine the data you have collected. In studying the patterns and trends in your research data, you just need to answer two questions. What story does the data tell? Why is the story executed this way?

In a day, teachers face more students than fellow teachers. That’s why, given a chance to speak with their colleagues, teachers make share their discoveries from their research. This way, they get to express organizational knowledge they think is useful for other teachers while gaining insight as well.

The last step of the research action plan is, of course, to take action. This part is where teachers make their lesson plans . This part is satisfying to teachers because they feel they have gotten wiser with every piece of knowledge they have uncovered.

Everyone should learn from their mistakes. With every trial and error is a new way of looking at things. You just need to be vigilant with all your actions and know that there is always a better way of doing things. Once you’ve refined your skills, you are sure to become a master.

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92 Action Research Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best action research topic ideas & essay examples, 💡 interesting topics to write about action research, 🎓 most action research topics to write about, ⭐ simple & easy action research essay titles.

  • School Tardiness: Action Research and Data Analysis The study will be determined through action research design due to its nature to contribute to the body of knowledge and to offer solution to the problem of tardiness in schools.
  • The Importance of Action Research It is a significant tool in ensuring that the teacher understands his/her practice, ways of improving the same, enable him/her understands the ways in which the person is able to understand changes from outside and […]
  • Practical and Participatory Action Research Whilst the researcher takes charge of the processes of problem identification, data collection and analysis, and the identification of actions needed, clients are required to participate in the actualization of the identified courses action.
  • Action Research Project: Causes of the Problem and Solution Strategy The questionnaire aims to obtain the percentage of ESL students who would complete the questionnaire, parents of the ESL students who would complete the questionnaire and the percentage number of students who would get an […]
  • Student’s Motivational Strategy: Action Research It is also important to review the context of the research, the literature related to the topic and problem, the area of focus and research questions, the intervention details, and the strategies of the data […]
  • Ethics in School-Based Action Research On the basis of this, the current section examines the various ethical deliberations that were applied in the study to examine the impacts of the program.
  • Action Research Paradigm Protocol This approach enabled the management of the HCZ to better understand the functioning of this organization as a system and not as a set of separate programs.
  • Crown Plaza Hotel’s Action Research Project In this paper, the researcher seeks to address the problem of diversity management that the company faces. The problem with this strategy is that the management is finding it difficult to manage the diversity of […]
  • Components of a Research Proposal & Recursive Nature of Action Research The components of the literature include theories and models related to the research, significant data that has been published and related to the problem, an overview of the history of the problem and the recent […]
  • Personal Action Research Plan Rationale for choosing the Wondering Question The choice of the wondering question originates from the researcher’s passion to improve or experiment the teaching strategies and teaching techniques which motivates students.
  • Hospice Nursing: Evaluating the Use of Participatory Action Research I agree that the hospice nurses help the dying and patients in pain through strategic practices that are evident based under tight regulations.
  • Participatory Action Research on Canada’s Environment This discussion shows that a nationwide recycling PAR is required to combat worries about people’s lack of interest in environmental stewardship to preserve the environment.
  • Christian Church: The Action Research The penultimate stage is to implement the action plan and eliminate the identified problems. In conclusion, Action Research is a positive tool that allows you to work with the effectiveness of churches.
  • Business Engineering: Action Research The parties involved in the action research are committed to finding the solution to the problem of organized crime in Amsterdam.
  • System Dynamics and Soft Systems and Action Research Thus, the application of the soft systems method is crucial in terms of the critical evaluation of a system in terms of the possible perceptions and outcomes.
  • Action Research Method in Peer-Reviewed Articles The methodology of the study was action design, the use of which aimed at investigating the potential of the flipped classroom model to enhance learners’ academic results and to lead to the more rational use […]
  • Technology and Innovation: Entrepreneurial Action Research Project It is important to have prior information of the technological demands of the market, and ways to beat the existing ones.
  • Action Research Impact on the Organization’s Activities The article by Brydon-Miller, Greenwood, and Maguire introduces readers to the journal “Action Research” and its editorial board, the members of which were the question “Why AR?” With the help of their answers, the authors […]
  • Improvement of Participatory Action Research Validity In qualitative research, the researcher’s attitude, opinions, and background information play a significant role in defining the outcomes of the research.
  • “Action Research” Process Analysis The author is trying to use action research to critically analyze the conditions for developing sustainable as well as scalable health information systems in third world countries alongside the scalability as well as sustainability of […]
  • “All You Need to Know About Action Research” by Mcniff & Whitehead The ‘in here and ‘out here’ world planning requires an action researcher to address his/her concern for the research, the action to take, data type to be gathered, judge how his education influence the research, […]
  • Participatory Action Research, Like a Technique of Carrying Out a Research Through Action The participatory action research is therefore a technique used to solve common problems. First, participatory action research, unlike common problem-solving activities, is a scientific study and therefore follows the scientific systematic process.
  • Action Research on Gang Prevention The activities in this approach allow the community to assist the population that is already involved in gang activities and the population that is likely to be involved in the gang activities.
  • The Process of Action Research for Teacher The critical question of the research project is considered to be “What are the principles causes of student success in the distance learning process?” the plan of the action research is concentrated around the aspect […]
  • Action Research and Organizational Development This would be appropriate in the case of my past organization as the issues affected documents and communication the most. Lurey and Griffin describe the feedback phase as a cooperative one, where the organizational development […]
  • Action Research and Educational Program Evaluation It should be noted that action research is particularly applicable to specific questions that can be related to the quality of programs, instruction methods, or textbooks.
  • Action Research for Professional Development The idea is to enable the practitioners to follow certain actions and reflection procedures to enable them to improve upon the unsatisfactory situation. The prevalent methods or approaches to action research include the use of […]
  • Action Research Plan in Education The epistemological, theoretical, and disciplinary perspectives of qualitative research in the context of STEM activities and how the learners respond to the activities provides the rationale to use the qualitative paradigm to address the data […]
  • Stage Four in Action Research Paradigm Protocol Moreover, the representation of the collected information reflects the transparency of the research process and the researcher in representing the information collected from the field.
  • Action Research: Interpreting and Implementing It can be effective to use the time-series research similar to the one implemented to evaluate the effectiveness of the behavioral intervention.
  • Action Research in Public Organization Development These are the importance of context understanding, the quality of collaboration between researchers and employees, the quality of the process itself, and the development of collaboration from learning by practice.
  • School Improvement Team: Action Research There is a group of five individuals whose seats are never occupied by others, and they tend to be the leaders of the class.
  • Students’ Motivation Strategy: Action Research With this in mind, I begin to wonder if a tutor does not cope with his work or that is the problem of motivation.
  • Action Research in Science Education He is motivated to improve the perception of students when learning science and raising the school performance in the region. Other factors regulating the performance of the students will be determined in accordance to the […]
  • Education, Research, and Action: Theory and Methods of Participatory Action Research Beginning with definition of the concepts of Participatory Action Research which includes the little known concept of “participatory research”, this book goes on to describe a number of theories and principles of building viable projects […]
  • Empowering and Assessing Social Change of Local Communities Through Participatory Action Research The intention of the research is to facilitate the participation of the local community in identifying the problem and seeking a lasting solution to it.
  • Formulating a Research Question in Action Research The steps involved in defining a research problem include the identification of a broad topic, followed by the identification of a narrow topic.
  • Action Research Outline: Does Culturally Responsive Pedagogy Lead to Student Achievement The teachers will proceed and analyze the use of the method and its effectiveness in the lesson. Further analysis of the Cultural Responsive Pedagogy approach towards learning will be initiated.
  • Why Should Mainstream Social Researchers Be Interested in Action Research?
  • An Action Research Plan for Developing and Implementing The Students’ Listening Comprehension Skills
  • Strategic Information Planning: Insights From an Action Research Project in the Financial Services Industry
  • Killer Action Research: What Makes People Kill?
  • Action Research and Collaborative Management Research: More Than Meets the Eye
  • Political Agency and Capabilities Formation Through Participatory Action Research
  • Social Policy Paper: Affirmative Action Research
  • Action Research in Mathematics Education
  • Social Action Research Paper: Illegal Immigration
  • The Action Research Plan to Address Chronic Behavior Problems
  • Virtual Action Research for Virtual Organisations
  • Reviewing and Improving Performance Measurement Systems: An Action Research
  • Participatory Methodology and Action Research in the Area of Health
  • Action Research and Its Key Working Principles
  • The Action Research Cycle Reloaded: Conducting Action Research Across Buyer-Supplier Relationships
  • Qualitative Research and Action Research: The Difference Between the Concepts
  • The Importance of Action Research in Teacher Education Programs
  • How to Develop an Impactful Action Research Program?
  • The Collaborative Process in Action Research
  • Relationship Between Action Research and Minority
  • Action Research of Consumer Behavior in Market Assessment
  • Responsibility Diagram Using Action Research to Improve Processes
  • Using Participatory Action Research to Build a Priority-Setting Process in a Canadian Regional Health Authority
  • Theory Into Practice, Practice to Theory: Action Research in Method Development
  • Action Research and New Media: Concepts, Methods and Cases
  • Critical Realist Action Research and Humanistic Management Education
  • Implementing Leadership Action Research
  • The Value of Action Research: Broadening Evidence Base for Teachers
  • The Action Research Process and Matrix Marketing
  • Participatory Design and Technologies for Sustainable Development: An Approach From Action Research
  • Action Research of Plastic on the Environment in the Modern World
  • Skills and Challenges in Action Research Making
  • Action Research and Curriculum Development With New Education Reforms
  • Innovatory Qualifications and Democratic Participation: Experiences and Reflexions Stimulated by an Action Research Project
  • Institutionalizing Insider Action Research Initiatives in Organizations: The Role of Learning Mechanisms
  • Financing Small and Medium Towns: An Action Research Study From Bemetara Town in India
  • Education and Action Research Benefits
  • Community Organizing Participatory Action Research
  • Customer Satisfaction Action Research
  • Organizational Development and Action Research: Management Models
  • Funding Sources for Action Research Project on At-Risk Children for Literacy in First Grade
  • Knowledge Management Systems and Disaster Management in Malaysia: An Action Research Approach
  • Action Research: Literature Exploration
  • Needs for Action Research in Agricultural Extension
  • Forecast Quality Improvement With Action Research: A Success Story at Pharmaco
  • Learning Along With Participatory Action Research: A Finnish Perspective
  • Myths About Affirmative Action Research
  • Improving Water Distribution for Poverty Reduction in Transition Economies: Results of an Action Research on Central Asian Tertiary Canals
  • Introduction and Action Research: Sri Reddy Koranda
  • Emerging Action Research Traditions: Rigor in Practice
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A closer look at four distinct ways to drive transformation.

When tasked with implementing large-scale organizational change, leaders often give too much attention to the what of change — such as a new organization strategy, operating model or acquisition integration — not the how — the particular way they will approach such changes. Such inattention to the how comes with the major risk that old routines will be used to get to new places. Any unquestioned, “default” approach to change may lead to a lot of busy action, but not genuine system transformation. Through their practice and research, the authors have identified the optimal ways to conceive, design, and implement successful organizational change.

Management of long-term, complex, large-scale change has a reputation of not delivering the anticipated benefits. A primary reason for this is that leaders generally fail to consider how to approach change in a way that matches their intent.

example action research questions

  • Deborah Rowland is the co-author of  Sustaining Change: Leadership That Works , Still Moving: How to Lead Mindful Change , and the Still Moving Field Guide: Change Vitality at Your Fingertips . She has personally led change at Shell, Gucci Group, BBC Worldwide, and PepsiCo and pioneered original research in the field, accepted as a paper at the 2016 Academy of Management and the 2019 European Academy of Management. Thinkers50 Radar named as one of the generation of management thinkers changing the world of business in 2017, and she’s on the 2021 HR Most Influential Thinker list. She is Cambridge University 1st Class Archaeology & Anthropology Graduate.
  • Michael Thorley is a qualified accountant, psychotherapist, executive psychological coach, and coach supervisor integrating all modalities to create a unique approach. Combining his extensive experience of running P&L accounts and developing approaches that combine “hard”-edged and “softer”-edged management approaches, he works as a non-executive director and advisor to many different organizations across the world that wish to generate a new perspective on change.
  • Nicole Brauckmann focuses on helping organizations and individuals create the conditions for successful emergent change to unfold. As an executive and consultant, she has worked to deliver large-scale complex change across different industries, including energy, engineering, financial services, media, and not-for profit. She holds a PhD at Faculty of Philosophy, Westfaelische Wilhelms University Muenster and spent several years on academic research and teaching at University of San Diego Business School.

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COMMENTS

  1. 21 Action Research Examples (In Education)

    The methods of action research in education include: conducting in-class observations. taking field notes. surveying or interviewing teachers, administrators, or parents. using audio and video recordings. The goal is to identify problematic issues, test possible solutions, or simply carry-out continuous improvement.

  2. Action Research: What it is, Stages & Examples

    Stage 1: Plan. For an action research project to go well, the researcher needs to plan it well. After coming up with an educational research topic or question after a research study, the first step is to develop an action plan to guide the research process. The research design aims to address the study's question.

  3. 10 Research Question Examples to Guide your Research Project

    The first question asks for a ready-made solution, and is not focused or researchable. The second question is a clearer comparative question, but note that it may not be practically feasible. For a smaller research project or thesis, it could be narrowed down further to focus on the effectiveness of drunk driving laws in just one or two countries.

  4. 100 Questions (and Answers) About Action Research

    100 Questions (and Answers) About Action Research identifies and answers the essential questions on the process of systematically approaching your practice from an inquiry-oriented perspective, with a focus on improving that practice.

  5. What Is Action Research?

    Action research is a research method that aims to simultaneously investigate and solve an issue. In other words, as its name suggests, action research conducts research and takes action at the same time. It was first coined as a term in 1944 by MIT professor Kurt Lewin.A highly interactive method, action research is often used in the social ...

  6. PDF A Practical Guide to Action Research for Literacy Educators

    Specific goals of this handbook are to help educators do the following: Define and explain Action Research. Demonstrate an understanding of how to use the recursive nature of Action Research to improve their teaching of instructional literacy. Provide examples of the Action Research process in action.

  7. 1 What is Action Research for Classroom Teachers?

    Action research is a process for improving educational practice. Its methods involve action, evaluation, and reflection. It is a process to gather evidence to implement change in practices. Action research is participative and collaborative. It is undertaken by individuals with a common purpose.

  8. Preparing for Action Research in the Classroom: Practical Issues

    An action research project is a practical endeavor that will ultimately be shaped by your educational context and practice. Now that you have developed a literature review, you are ready to revise your initial plans and begin to plan your project. This chapter will provide some advice about your considerations when undertaking an action ...

  9. Writing Strong Research Questions

    A good research question is essential to guide your research paper, dissertation, or thesis. All research questions should be: Focused on a single problem or issue. Researchable using primary and/or secondary sources. Feasible to answer within the timeframe and practical constraints. Specific enough to answer thoroughly.

  10. PDF Conducting Teacher Action Research

    Passion is integral to doing action research and can be a resource for identifying a research question, as indicated by Dana and Yendol-Hoppey (2008, pp. 15-48). After analyzing more than 100 teacher class-room research studies, they identified eight passions as possibilities for finding a research question: 1.

  11. Action Research Examples in Education

    The example also includes the use of student writing and interviewing to support the research. Action Research about Science Experiences: In this example of action research, drawings, along with other data sources, are used to study students' experiences with science outside of the classroom context. Sample Action Research Resources:

  12. 200+ List of Topics for Action Research in the Classroom

    Sharing case studies or examples of impactful research can demonstrate the positive outcomes and improvements that can result from well-conducted action research. Conclusion In conclusion, action research is a valuable tool for educators seeking to enhance their teaching practices and improve student outcomes.

  13. Action research in the classroom: A teacher's guide

    Creating an action research project. The action research process usually begins with a situation or issue that a teacher wants to change as part of school improvement initiatives.. Teachers get support in changing the 'interesting issue' into a 'researchable question' and then taking to experiment.The teacher will draw on the outcomes of other researchers to help build actions and reveal the ...

  14. What Is Action Research?

    Action research is a research method that combines investigation and intervention to solve a problem. Because of its interactive nature, action research is commonly used in the social sciences, particularly in educational contexts. Educators frequently use this method as a means of structured inquiry, emphasizing reflective practice and ...

  15. Developing Action Research Questions

    Action research is an intentional act, and the research questions can be used to state our intentions. When writing action research questions, you should keep the following criteria in mind: They should be broad in scope. You likely will have 1-3 questions that guide your action research process. It is unlikely that you will have more than 6.

  16. 225+ Action Research Topics In Education (Updated 2023)

    Tips to write appealing action research paper in education. Here are some tips to write an appealing action research paper in education: Select a Relevant and Engaging Topic: Choose action research topics in education that is relevant to the field of education and aligns with your interests and goals.Select a topic that has practical implications and can contribute to improving educational ...

  17. Best action research questions examples

    The examples provided below cover a wide range of topics and fields, demonstrating the versatility of action research in various contexts. Whether you are an educator, healthcare professional, social worker, or business manager, these action research question examples can serve as a starting point for your own research projects.

  18. 100 Questions (And Answers) About Action Research

    Abstract. 100 Questions (and Answers) About Action Research identifies and answers the essential questions on the process of systematically approaching your practice from an inquiry-oriented ...

  19. Action Research Topics in Education

    Further, they should be of interest to the researcher and have the potential to lead to improved student learning. Action Research Topics Using Drawings: sample Action Research topics using drawings as a primary data source. Action Research Examples: examples of Action Research by practicing teachers using a wide variety of research methodologies.

  20. 'Jumping the first hurdle': Framing action research questions using the

    Those familiar with the action research model (see Kemmis et al., 2014) will recognise the value of these questions in helping teacher researchers to initiate work on the first major step of the cycle which is planning. In contrast to Jones' numerous questions, McNiff and Whitehead (2011: 134) focused more on one key question, claiming that ...

  21. Forming a research question for action research

    The 'core action research' is understood as being the fieldwork phase of the 'thesis action research'. The Thesis action research kind of operates at a meta-level - i.e. research on the core action research. This means that the 'thesis action research' can have a different research question to the 'core action research'.

  22. Action Research

    This is a research method called action research. To help you further understand what action research is, here are multiple action research examples you can check out. 1. Research Action Plan Template. Details. File Format. MS Word. Google Docs. Apple Pages.

  23. 92 Action Research Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

    Action Research for Professional Development. The idea is to enable the practitioners to follow certain actions and reflection procedures to enable them to improve upon the unsatisfactory situation. The prevalent methods or approaches to action research include the use of […] Action Research Plan in Education.

  24. These are the Top 10 Emerging Technologies of 2024

    With AI expanding the world of data like never before, finding ways of leveraging it without ethical or security concerns is key. Enter synthetic data, an exciting privacy-enhancing technology re-emerging in the age of AI. It replicates the patterns and trends in sensitive datasets but does not contain specific information that could be linked to individuals or compromise organizations or ...

  25. Political Typology Quiz

    Take our quiz to find out which one of our nine political typology groups is your best match, compared with a nationally representative survey of more than 10,000 U.S. adults by Pew Research Center. You may find some of these questions are difficult to answer. That's OK.

  26. The Most Successful Approaches to Leading Organizational Change

    Nicole Brauckmann focuses on helping organizations and individuals create the conditions for successful emergent change to unfold. As an executive and consultant, she has worked to deliver large ...