Administative inquiry or action research is a process that can lead change for schools and all it stakeholders. In Examining What We Do to Improve our Schools: 8 Steps from Analysis to Action authors Harris, Edmonson, & Combs share the following information regarding inquiry:
"Inquiry is investigating in a systematic way. Inquiry is examining data, asking questions, and requesting more information. The inquiry process, based on logical reasoning, requires the collection of information in systematic way" (pg. 5).Applying their definition of inquiry to that of administrative inquiry or action research would involve the administrator engaging in systematic investigation, examination, collaboration and collection of information to affect change. Practitioner involvement in efforts for improvements is imperative to foster shared vision and group ownership. Nancy F. Dana finds that an administrator’s participation in inquiry “develops a sense of ownership in the knowledge constructed, and this sense of ownership heavily contributes to the possibilities for real change in schools” (p. 10). Administrative inquiry and action research are important modes of change that begin with one person or cluster of a team of practitioners, but requires the by-in and engagement of all stakeholders to prove successful.
My use for action research may be to improve my function within the academic settings to which I am connected. On any given say, there is much that I think or question. These thoughts and questions may prove to parent the next great practices or methods for professional or academic growth. The fact that I am not currently working in a school and am largely dependent upon my volunteer times to frame these questions, will force me to invite the queries of those immersed daily into the art of classroom instruction. Action research may be a tool that helps to improve a school environment and build a sort of consensus on school improvement focus.
My use for action research may be to improve my function within the academic settings to which I am connected. On any given say, there is much that I think or question. These thoughts and questions may prove to parent the next great practices or methods for professional or academic growth. The fact that I am not currently working in a school and am largely dependent upon my volunteer times to frame these questions, will force me to invite the queries of those immersed daily into the art of classroom instruction. Action research may be a tool that helps to improve a school environment and build a sort of consensus on school improvement focus.
Dana, N. F. (2009). Leading with passion and knowledge:
the principal as action researcher. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.
the principal as action researcher. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.
Harris, S., Edmondson, S., & Combs, J. (2009). Examining what we
do to improve our schools: 8 steps from analysis to action. Larchmont, N.Y:
Eye on Education.
do to improve our schools: 8 steps from analysis to action. Larchmont, N.Y:
Eye on Education.
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