Action Research

Action research is research done by a practitioner (or group of practitioners in a community of practice) in the setting where the practitioner practices. The goal is to obtain knowledge that is relevant to the practice using convenient instruments on a sample population that is convenient. The data and findings are disseminated back to the practitioners, action is taken, and the practice/strategies/knowledge is changed. It reminds me of my thoughts about Freire (2010) and his idea of praxis. Freire defined praxis as “reflection and action upon the world to transform it.” Kant is quoted as saying, “Experience without theory is blind, but theory without experience is mere intellectual play.” I believe that theory must be grounded in practice, and practice must be grounded in theory. Critical reflection is an integral part of action research. One must be able to reflect after an activity and during an activity. The epitome of learning is being able to interact with one’s environment and internalize the knowledge through reflection for future use. It is an expression of experiential learning. Fullan (2007) makes the case for a type of community of practice called a professional learning community. Educators who participate in professional learning communities reflect on their practice and dialogue with other practitioners. These educators in professional learning communities engage in practice and reflection. They are attempting to transform their world and student learning by praxis as defined by Freire (2010). Fullan (2007) states that the only learning that counts is that which is learned in the environment in which it is used. It is learning how to do things correctly where one works. This can only happen when we are in conversation with others who have similar interests and goals, but have more knowledge and expertise.