What is action research?

Through our reading this week, I have discovered a new approach called action research.  This is an interesting process that helps anyone improve or solve a problem in their life or career.  We are specifically learning about action research from a principal's perspective in this course, so I will focus my post on that aspect of action research.  Principals are faced with many challenges everyday in their schools.  Sometimes a problem can be a small one that requires a few minutes of thought and then action.  Other times the problem is one that involves taking big steps for change.  A principal should take time during their day to reflect upon the issues within their school. As a result of the reflection, there will no doubt be an issue that stands out.  The principal should focus on that issue and form a question worthy of an in depth research.  The first step is to go out and learn as much as possible about that topic.  Take all the information and use it to guide the action.  The principal must reflect regularly throughout the entire process to ensure they are moving forward and collecting evidence.  Action research is not complete without a proper reflection.