Action research as a valuable tool

Action research is a valuable tool for principals to use in a number of ways. With Principal inquiry, the principal engages in an examination of her own practice in a systematic way and upon reflection takes action for change. I think this would be an ideal opportunity for the principal new to a campus to set the standard for learning and study based expectation by modeling the practice of inquiry. There are several different ways of performing action research and I think the one I will use is the eight steps because I like the idea of a maintenance step at the end of the research because once the inquiry is finished and the hard work of finding what works best for students or principals, there should be revisiting of the work to continue the success or a reevaluation as necessary. The process of action research will bring about a clearer understanding for all those involved in the inquiry and the ultimate goal is instructional
excellence that leads to student achievement and student success. Action research is an area that I feel I have a strength because as a Literacy Coach we promote research based best practices to support teachers. Next year the third, fourth and fifth grade teachers on my campus will be participating in inquiry to improve their teaching practices, so this exercise will support me in the work I will be doing with teachers next year.