Steps for Action Research

1. STEPS FOR ACTION RESEARCH

2. RESEARCH It is a search for knowledge. It is a scientific and systematic search for
pertinent/relevant/suitable information on a specific area. It is to discover answers to
questions through the application of scientific procedures. It is to find out the truth
which is hidden and which has not discovered as yet. It is directed towards the solution
of a problem. It is based on observable experience or empirical evidence. It involves
gathering new data from primary or first hand sources or using existing data for a new
purpose
3. Classifications of Research Fundamental or Basic Research It is the formal and
systematic process of deductive- inductive analysis, leading to the development of
theories. It is usually carried on in a laboratory or some times into animals. It has no
immediate or planned application, may later result in further research on an applied
nature.
4. Applied Research It adapts the theories developed through fundamental research
to the solution of problems. It has most of the characteristics of fundamental research
including the use of sampling techniques and the subsequent inferences about the
target population.
5. Action Research It is focused on immediate application, not in the development of
theory or on general application. It is to remedy problems diagnosed in specific
solution. It is applicable to a particular situation for which the solution has been found
It aims at improving personal or institutional efficiency. It emphasizes more on
understanding and solving the problem rather than theory building It is to improve
school practices and to improve those who try to improve the practices.
6. Main Features Action researches are small scale and narrowly focused researches
undertaken by teachers in a given context. It has also been referred to as research into
practice by practitioners, for practitioners. In action research, teachers, the
classroom practitioners, feel and solve the problem. Its findings are to be evaluated in
terms of local applicability not universal validity. The problems of action research are
felt needs of practitioners, hence there are greater chances of the results of the action
research influencing the existing practices in the field. Since the practitioner himself is
involved in the process of research, the findings are his own and not thrust upon him by
outsider; hence he is more likely to implement them.
7. Steps for Action Research Identification of a problem area Collection and
organization of data Interpretation of data Action based on data Evaluate Results
Follow up action
8. Identification of a problem area: There are several criteria to consider before
investing the time and effort in researching a problem. The question should - be a
higher order question- not a yes / no - be stated in common language - be concise - be
meaningful - not already have an answer
9. Collection and organization of data: The collection of data is an important step in
deciding what action needs to be taken. Multiple sources of data are used to better
understand the scope of happenings in the classroom or school or college. There are
many vehicles for collection of data: Interviews Diaries Field notes Photos
Questionnaires Anecdotal records Checklists Journals Individual files Logs of
meetings Case studies Surveys Records-tests, report cards, attendance Samples
of students work, Projects, performances
10. Interpretation of data Analyze and identify major themes. Depending upon the
question, teachers may wish to use classroom data, individual data, or subgroup data.
Some of the data are quantifiable and can be analyzed without the use of statistics or
technical assistance. Other data, such as opinions, attitudes, or checklists, may be
summarized in table form.
11. Action based on data Using the information from the data collection and review of
current literature, design a plan of action that will allow us make a change and to study
that change.
12. Evaluate Results Assess the effects of the intervention to determine if
improvement has occurred. If there is improvement, do the data clearly provide the
supporting evidence? If no, what changes can be made to the actions to elicit better
results?
13. Follow-up action As a result of the action research project, identify additional
questions raised by the data and plan for additional improvements, revisions, and next
steps.