When I met with teachers in December I asked them to write 3 goals that would help them lead their students to more success in their academics. I met with one sixth grade family and they stated that their main goals were:
    * to create more student centered classrooms
    * help students to become more self-determining
    * teach in more differentiated ways

In meeting with my supervisor this week we talked about the need to stay flexable in the process but to work hard on identifying exactly what we are trying to change and making sure that it is measurable. I know that I have a vision but I have to make to sure that it is the same vision as the teachers and students. I need to stay flexable and open-minded in that they may change my direction.

Action research is a systematic process to develop researched based, data driven, purposeful teaching and learning initiatives. Compared to traditional research; action research is conducted by active practitioners of the researched issue in an effort to advance the teaching and learning of staff and students (Dana, 2009). There are expected changes that occur as a result of action research (AR) unlike the traditional research where there is no proposed change based on data research.

The comprehensive focus on student achievement during an AR project provides for professional growth in those that participate (Dana, 2009). The foundation that needs to be in place for successful projects is a shared vision (Harris, 2010). There is a need for constant reflection so that all methods and approaches are aligned to the achievement of the shared vision. Action research is a planned problem solving process based on problem understanding. Asking the right questions leads to the development of a framework for examining school improvement (Harris, 2010). The benefits of action research can be felt on many levels. The results of one AR project may lead to the formation of different instructional practices that have impact on different instructional concerns (Dana, 2009).  The biggest benefit is the culture that can be established in a professional learning community that has a group focus on the campus vision of increased student learning.

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

Harris, S. E. (2010). Examinging what we do to improve our schools: 8 steps to improve our schools. . Larchmont, NY: Eyo on Education.

Educational leaders can find many uses for blogs to serve many different audiences and purposes.  Blogs can be used:

For school staff: to post school business, open lines of communication, post campus action research projects.

For students: teachers can post flipped classroom lessons, students can post question for teachers or peers to answer

For parents: campus calendars, volunteer needs request, fund raising opportunities.

This blog will serve as a tool to post the process of an action research project. All visitors are welcome to post comments and seek collaboration on common areas of interest.