Making Changes from the Inside Out...

Action Research
Action research is the process of studying a problem while actively engaging in the analysis, induction, and evaluation of a specific inquiry.  This type of research is different from the traditional model of knowledge generated from an outsider’s perspective and incorporated into a district to help solve a problem.  As Fichman (2009) describes in her text, administrators can instead use action research to improve their schools from the inside out.  This technique should be an excellent way to gain knowledge and add insight into the current integration of technology on our campus. 

Another important characteristic of action research is that it does not end when the anticipated “solution” is found.  Instead, it is an on-going analysis that continues even after the proposed recommendation is in place.  In the Harris, Edmonson, & Combs (2009) text, the analogy is constructed of how a Doctor treats a patient.  It is a continuing process that begins with a symptom, diagnosis, test results, treatment, and continued evaluation of the treatment plan.  This is important as we continue to update technology on our campus and realize how quickly some technology becomes obsolete. 

Action research is a great way for administrators to use logical, analytical, and data driven research from within their own school to evaluate and prescribe solutions to issues as they see the need.

Blogging
Blogging is a great way to communicate with others.  It allows for collaboration and is an easy medium through which many people can communicate quickly and efficiently.  Using this forum is also a great way to share research with colleagues that may be thousands of miles away (Fichman, 2009).  Blogging is a great forum for educators to communicate with one another and share ideas.  It could also be used to communicate with parents, students, community groups and others that have a direct need for information about events and activities going on inside the school.

References

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

Harris, S., Edmonson, S., and Combs, J. (2010).  Examining what we do to improve our schools: 8 steps to improve our schools.  Eye on Education Press.