Action research empowers you to investigate the everyday challenges you encounter in your role, uncovering practical solutions for your own growth and the benefit of your learners. It's an opportunity to test new ideas and develop new approaches all while being a reflective practitioner.
Action research is a continuous, cyclical process, so it’s a great way to continuously improve and grow as a professional.
Can I be an Action Researcher?
Of course - all practitioners can be! Action research is a way of investigating the everyday issues you have in your setting and researching to find practical solutions for the benefit of you and your learners.
In fact, you probably already use action research practices in your role.
- Identify an issue in your learning environment
- Look at research to generate ideas for solutions
- Where possible, include your learners in this research. Involving learners by taking their feedback and opinions into account ensures that everyone in your space is invested and engaged in the new approach.
- Test the solutions
- Evaluate your actions - as part of your reflective practice or with input from your learner. What worked & what didn’t? Could things be tweaked to improve the solution?
As action research is cyclical the evaluate stage may lead you to uncover new questions and avenues to explore - so the process begins again!
We’d recommend sharing your findings with your organisation if you are comfortable with doing so, either as a formal presentation or an informal chat with your colleagues, to share knowledge and encourage others to adopt the practice.
Will action research benefit me, my learners and my organisation?
Action research not only enriches your own professional growth but also becomes a catalyst for change in practice, at a personal and organisational level.
On the smallest scale, your own learning environment and learners can benefit from the collaborative and innovative learning practice where new ideas are brought forth and reflected on for refinement. The beauty of action research is that it can be tailored to your specific needs and environment, ensuring you make a real difference where you need to most.
On the largest scale, sharing your findings with colleagues (inside and outside your immediate setting) could spark a change across the whole education sector!
Should I share my action research outside of my action research findings?
Absolutely! While no two learners or educators are the same, many colleagues and institutions face similar challenges and questions about the organisation and learning practices. A culture of curiosity, knowledge sharing and open communication is the best way to drive development across the whole sector and to encourage others to begin implementing action research into their own practice.
Next, immerse yourself in the research process, exploring a range of resources from articles, podcasts, videos, and online advice. Engage in meaningful conversations with your colleagues and learners, inviting them to join you as you explore new ideas.
We’ve listed a number of resources below to help you get started:
- The Research College Group: A supportive organisation dedicated to practitioner research, offering free CPD training and resources.
- FE Research Podcast: Immerse yourself in audio-learning, led by FE researchers with real-life expertise to share. Available wherever you find your podcasts.
- FEResearchmeet: Join like-minded professionals in face-to-face or online events, where you can share your findings and exchange ideas.
- A Practical Guide to Action Research. Does what it says on the tin! A practical guide, serving to support you through the Action Research process.
- FE News: Stay abreast of the latest news and insights in the sector.
- Twitter: Connect with action research communities and networks.
- EBSCO. Available to EWC registrants for free through their PLP, EBSCO is the world’s largest full-text research database for education professionals covering all levels of education and specialities.