Reflection from Week 2

In reflecting on the readings for this week, I realize that action research can be pursued in many area or topics. I have come to the conclusion that any action research project should have at its heart the best interest of students and ways to improve their performance and their lives. In choosing a topic, I considered several, but solving an issue at my school will become my focus. What effect does homework or targeted classroom practice have on TAKS scores? I have a wondering in the effects of each on student performance and if one method is better than the other for student performance. While this will take a great deal of time, more than I have before finishing my degree, I am motivated to continue this project throughout the next school year to determine which method or various combinations of methods provides greater student performance. I would like to resolve an issue with two groups of staff members over this topic as well.

Educational Leaders and Blogging

Blogging is a way of reflection and listing the thinking involved in a process. Educational leaders can collaborate with other leaders through a blog; feedback can be provided from anyone as blogging can link us to others in the world. Just as teachers can suffer from isolation in the classroom, principals can experience the same isolation. Many times there is only one administrator in a building or in a district; this lonely administrator can have feedback on his inquiry and reflections through the use of blogging. Even if feedback is not the goal of blogging, it provides a record of previous thinking for a leader. In reviewing prior thinking, a leader can gain insight into what the right or wrong decision may be. Blogging is tool that can hold great potential for a leader.

Action Research and Its Uses

Action research, also called administrator inquiry, the process of an studying a practice and taking action for change based on the learning through the process of inquiry (Dana, 2009). In studying this practice, one realizes that aspiring to be a great leader will involve the process of reflection. Reflection is the action of thinking about decisions, understanding mistakes made, and making adjustments as needed. Through reflection, a wondering, or basis for inquiry, is developed, stumbled upon, or jumps right out at a leader. Once a leader has a topic for inquiry, he then moves to data collection and analysis. Action research is assessing needs, moving through the process of inquiry, analyzing data, and making decisions based on the results of the inquiry. Action research is not just reading a book on a topic of interest; it is finding a better solution using knowledge, both prior and recently gained, to make better choices for our students.

As a leader, action research is a tool that I will use. One trait of a great leader is that of being able to reflect on prior decisions and make the needed adjustments. Action research is realizing a need and finding a solution through inquiry. This tool is one used by a great leader, either formally or informally. I will strive to make inquiry a part of my week as it is necessary to reflect and inquire to make use of what works and what does not. The use of best practices in education is all about inquiry and making choices accordingly. Leaders who desire for the best of those they lead will constantly seek out the best practices, and I will work through inquiry to serve those I lead to be their best.



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