Action research is a unique and intimate way for educational
leaders to address the immediate concerns of their district. Unlike adopting
research results done by universities, action research is done by school
officials who utilize their district resources to improve the educational
environment. This process includes not
only educational leaders but extends to the faculty, staff, students, parents
and the surrounding community. Action research allows its participants to
immerse themselves in important issues. This communal effort strengthens community
relations, builds staff camaraderie and allows all participants the satisfaction
of improving the school for future years.
For my action research plan I plan to address how the implementation
of student surveys regarding teacher performance will influence student
learning and if they will improve teacher performance. A growing movement among districts
nationwide is to institute student surveys as a means of improving teacher performance.
Many policy-makers feel that student surveys are effective way to improve
teacher development and inspire teachers to reflect upon their performance-
something that many feel is an integral step in improving classroom
instruction. My action research plan
will explore the most effect and efficient ways of instituting student surveys
in my district. The plan will also analyze the effects surveys had on improving
teacher performance and student learning.
Blogging can be an effective way for education leaders to capture
their thinking as the action research develops (Dana 2007). Also, blogging offer
administrators an open forum to update and inform the educational community about
the results and process of an action research plan.
