Action research is a research approach that combines investigation and problem-solving simultaneously. It's a cyclical process of planning, acting, observing, and reflecting, aimed at improving specific practices or situations.
Essentially, it's research in action and research for action. It focuses on practical issues and implementing changes based on findings, rather than solely on theoretical knowledge.
Here's a breakdown:
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Purpose: To address real-world problems and improve practices within a specific context.
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Process: Involves a cyclical and iterative process, typically including the following stages:
- Planning: Identifying a problem or area for improvement and developing a plan of action.
- Acting: Implementing the plan and collecting data on its effects.
- Observing: Analyzing the data to understand the impact of the action.
- Reflecting: Evaluating the results and modifying the plan for future iterations. This often leads back to planning a new action.
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Characteristics:
- Participatory: Involves stakeholders (e.g., teachers, community members, employees) in the research process.
- Context-specific: Focuses on addressing problems within a specific setting or context.
- Action-oriented: Aims to produce practical outcomes and improvements.
- Reflective: Encourages critical reflection on practices and processes.
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Examples:
- A teacher using action research to improve student engagement in their classroom.
- A community organization using action research to address a local social issue.
- A business using action research to improve employee morale and productivity.
In summary, action research is a practical and participatory research method that integrates investigation and problem-solving to improve practices and address real-world issues within specific contexts.
