Lessons Learned

Through the course of this action research class, I have learned three key components that I would like to highlight. These three lessons were learned from three different sources—the textbooks, the interviews, and the interactive blogs.
In the textbooks, the greatest insights for me were the data collection strategies. I had never considered using field notes, videos, or digital pictures as data sources. I learned that the old adage “a picture is worth a thousand words” is actually true when it comes to action research. I also learned about how to use the Delphi Method as a strategy to sustain improvement. We use it informally all the time at school, so it was exciting for me to realize that it is truly a research-proven strategy.
Through the interviews we observed in week 2, I learned that in conducting action research, it is important to remember that smaller is better. If you choose a broad topic, there are usually too many parameters and contributing factors to consider. However, when you limit your focus to a specific topic, it is easier to research literature, measure data, and analyze results. In the end, you will see more progress and thus feel less discouraged with the process
Lastly, through the blogs of my classmates, I have gained a wealth of knowledge about a myriad of topics. Not only have I learned about issues that other campuses face, I have also been exposed to various perspectives, viewpoints, and rationales. It is so interesting to realize how differently we all think in our attempts to problem-solve. There have been many extremely creative suggestions and approaches to the research topics. It is also comforting to realize that other educators through the state, and perhaps the nation, face the exact same issues as you. You are not stranded on an island. There is a plethora of resources to aid you—whether those resources are websites, journals, or fellow educators, just to name a few. All you have to do is look.
That previous statement summarizes the crux of this course quite well for me. Yes, as an educator, I will face many problems throughout the course of my career. However, answers do exist if I take the time to look. By setting aside time to reflect, research, and reconsider, I have the power to resolve issues and perhaps even rejuvenate the field of education. Even more importantly, by striving to be a life-long learner and modeling these practices, perhaps I can inspire my fellow educators and students to become life-long learners as well.