Action-Based Research

Questions that Burn

What is “Action Research?” Short-term: Looking at an immediate problem. Often “how do we get from ___ to ___?” Long-term: Reflective process. Often collaborative. Can this change or improve my practice? Burning Question

Case Study: Klaus Schmidt, Illinois State University (2001)

1. Klaus’s Burning Questions Do students obtain the same learning outcomes on-line as they do in a traditional classroom setting? Do students perceive their on-line classroom environment to be comparable with a traditional classroom setting? Thoughts? Predictions?

2. Review of Literature Most literature sees little difference in outcomes online vs. classroom instruction. So, why proceed?

3. Research Strategy 6 week, rotating cycle. 3 weeks in class, 3 weeks online.

4. Data Gathering Perception questionnaire Multiple-choice assessment Two exercises designed to assess higher- level thinking skills

5. Data Analysis No need to make it complex: look at the results. Decide what to do with anomalies.

6. Taking Action neither teaching method appeared to be more effective than the other. But even this has action points:

7. Sharing Findings Can be very dependent on whether you got funding, and where from…

8. Conclusion What have you found out, and are there any next steps? Future action research project?

Opportunities Right Now Royal Society Partnership Grant Scheme Scholarships for Teachers and SEN Support Staff (DfE) The Goldsmiths’ Grant for Teachers In Your School?