Wow, What a Week!

Although it was a very hectic week, I feel much more at ease with what action research is all about.  At first, I couldn't see how my topic and/or questions would be evaluated...it seemed so abstract.  After this week's readings, web conference, and assignment pieces, I understand what it will take to get my questions answered.  The great part about it is that whatever I find out may help others.  I really liked the analogy at the beginning of Chapter 5.  The last part of action research is sharing the information with stakeholders.  Dana paints a vivid picture of the importance of sharing the hard work and time put into action research.  Dana (2009) suggests the following:

Imagine that you notice a large pond that is stagnant and that you are enticed to create some type of movement or change in the water.  As you near the edge, you notice that the pond is surrounded by numerous stones.  You reach down, pick up a stone, and toss it as far out into the center of the pond as your strength allows.  While lying beside the pond, the stone had no impact on the water, but once tossed in, it disturbs not only the stillness of the water where it lands but also emanates ripples from its landing place that eventually reach the perimeter of the pond. (p. 135)

This is a great analogy to represent the impact that sharing action research can have and how not sharing would be a disservice to the stakeholders that would benefit.

Strangely enough, I am really looking forward to beginning the project, collecting the data, and seeing how creating more engaging curriculum will affect student achievement!

References

Dana, N. F. (2009).  Leading with passion and knowledge: The principal as action Researcher.  Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.