One concern the science teachers have about Action Research is that this is research does not follow the scientific method and therefore can be analyzed in a way that skews the data to support the author. For example, take a look at this Action Research Project.
- The teacher says that 4 of her students say that the Kindle changed the way that they felt about reading. The teacher's tone and manner suggest that she feels like this is a positive correlation. However, another way to state the same findings is that 13 students said that it didn't change how they felt about reading.
- My concern is that researchers will portray their findings in a way that meets what findings they want to find.
- What are your thoughts on the "science" behind Action Research?
I agree with you Allison- we need to make sure we are 100% objective in the analysis of our research. I feel that too often in educational research there is an obvious bias.
ReplyDeleteI think teachers and administrators who have a mindset that all research must be statistically analyzed with t-tests, f-tests, standard deviations, etc are in for a big change. In the 2008 Ross-Fisher acticle, “Action Research to Improve Teaching and Learning”, there are a number of phrases that indicate that’s not how Action Research works. Ross-Fisher describes Action Research as “user-friendly” and not “daunting” for the busy teacher. A sample size of “one” is fine. She says this model is “generally less formal than other types of research.” “Criterion referenced rubrics or other types of rating scales usually works well with action research, as do teacher-made tests, observation checklists, and other comparable approaches.” These methods may seem quite subjective to some mathematical based scientists but is quite acceptable in Action Research. More formal methods which are employed in quantitative designs are not typical of Action Research. And I think that accepted by most. After all it seems like the steps are very cyclical so if your results aren’t satisfactory, you can just try something else until you find success.
ReplyDeleteI like these exchanges -- good mix of professional judgment and references to other sources. And I look forward to the way you will shape your action research project.
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