Week 2 Reflection EDLD 5301

The past week has been educational and enlightening. I have opened my eyes to action research and blogging. Previously, my opinion of blogging was less than good as I thought it was only for social purposes. I have witnessed and learned that it can be a very useful professional communication tool for leaders. It can open many communication and collaboration pathways that can enhance the educational setting shared by the school community at large. My earlier recognition of research was limited to the university –type that seldom promotes personal ownership in the purpose, desire, or findings. After our assigned readings, I can now acknowledge that action research is based on the immediate needs of the person performing the research; and the nine passions also led me to realize that it can be implemented in practically every aspect of our duties as educators.

How educational leaders might use blogs:

Educational leaders can effectively use blogs in many ways to enhance their performance as a leader. Blogs can be used as an online journal of activities that are pertinent to the campus. They can also be used as a communication tool for the immediate campus as well as for the extended school community. When a consistent blogging system is incorporated, stakeholders can be encouraged to collaborate and offer feedback on an endless number of topics that concern the success of the school.

What I have learned about action research:

Action research is “engaging in systematic, intentional study of his/her own administrative practice and taking action for change based on what he/she learns as a result of the inquiry” (Dana, 2009, p. 2). The process involves identifying the weakness or need for change, developing and using questioning, data collection, analyzing conclusions, and reflection. When used, it can benefit many levels within an educational setting and is performed in real-time/real-world situations that directly affect the researcher. This promotes personal ownership among the examiners and increases the desire for a solution. Teachers can identify methods to be more effective in the classroom as well as methods to develop themselves professionally and intellectually. Administrators can use the inquiry to identify more effective techniques to support a climate conducive to student success among the staff and extended school community, as well as within the physical plant of the school.

Action research is a tool that I will be able to use to ensure the effectiveness of the entire school community in meeting the needs of every student. This process can be used to strengthen the teachers, administrators, programs, and climate of the school.

Reference:

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