Action Research for Educators / Edition 2

by Daniel R. Tomal Concordia University Chic, Dennis J. Hastert

Overview

This book is a straightforward, no-nonsense guide to a research method that can be used by educators to increase student learning and self-esteem, as well as the quality of school life in the classroom. This second edition covers the principles and history of action research, ethical and legal considerations, methods for conducting both formal and informal action research, data collection methods, analysis and interpretation, action planning and initiation, and results evaluation.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781607096474
Publisher:	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc.
Publication date:	03/15/2010
Series:	The Concordia University Leadership Series
Edition description:	Second Edition
Pages:	214
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.90(d)

About the Author

Daniel R. Tomal is a professor of educational leadership and research at Concordia University Chicago. He is also a consultant and the author of nine books such as Challenging Students to Learn. He has made guest appearances on many national radio and television shows.

Table of Contents

Foreword vii

Preface ix

Acknowledgments xv

1 The Nature of Educational Research 1

Principles of Research 1

Quantitative Versus Qualitative Research 3

Action Research Principles 10

2 Action Research 13

History of Action Research 13

Action Research Model 17

Developing an Action Research Proposal 23

Conducting a Literature Review 27

Sampling Techniques 28

Benchmarking 30

Ethical and Legal Considerations 32

3 Data Collection Methods 35

The Nature of Data Collection 35

Observing 38

Interviewing 44

Surveying 59

Assessing 80

4 Data Analysis and Interpretation 91

Threats to Validity 91

Using Descriptive Statistics 96

Significance Levels and Tests of Significance 105

Using Graphs and Diagrams 114

Writing Narrative Reports 117

5 Solving Problems and Taking Action 121

Barriers to Problem Solving 121

Steps in Problem Solving 123

Managing Change 125

Planning and Initiating Action 128

Data-driven Decision Making (DDDM) 131

6 Evaluating Action Research 135

Areas for Evaluation 135

Methods for Evaluating Results 137

Evaluating Action Research Studies 138

7 Conducting Action Research 143

Sample Research Study Analysis 143

Collaborative Process Intervention: An Action Research Study 144

Modifying Discussion and Assessment Techniques to Increase Student Understanding and Teacher Reflective Practices 155

Appendix A Ethical Standards of the American Educational Research Association 169

Appendix B Informed Consent 173

Appendix C American Educational Research Association Definition of Scientifically Based Research 177

Appendix D Code of Professional Responsibilities in Educational Measurement 179

Appendix E Sample Consent Form 181

Appendix F One Hundred Ideas for Conducting Action Research 183

Bibliography 189

Index 193

About the Author 197

Editorial Reviews

As school leaders search for answers to questions about the best way to improve the teaching and learning process, one of the most critical challenges they face is connecting the dots between were they are and where they want to be. This book is a comprehensive tool to support a professional learning community in identifying a problem, collecting and analyzing relevant data, and establishing clear, specific goals that are focused on student learning.

Sallie D. Penman

Tomal provides a guide to action research that should be in the library of every educator. The principles of this book have the potential to motivate teachers, inspire best practices, and to pursue action plans that transform schools. Reading this book will enhance the practice of novice educators interested in problem solving and heighten the resolve of experienced educators to engage in practical research. A must-read for practicing educators and students. Essential.

Choice Reviews

This book is excellent with relevant and very clearly presented information regarding action research. My students find it very helpful.

Elaine M. Bukowiecki

Tomal provides a guide to action research that should be in the library of every educator. The principles of this book have the potential to motivate teachers, inspire best practices, and to pursue action plans that transform schools. Reading this book will enhance the practice of novice educators interested in problem solving and heighten the resolve of experienced educators to engage in practical research. A must-read for practicing educators and students. Essential.

(For The First Edition) Choice Reviews

Tomal provides a guide to action research that should be in the library of every educator. The principles of this book have the potential to motivate teachers, inspire best practices, and to pursue action plans that transform schools. Reading this book will enhance the practice of novice educators interested in problem solving and heighten the resolve of experienced educators to engage in practical research. A must-read for practicing educators and students. Essential.

(For The First Edition) CHOICE

Tomal provides an excellent basis for understanding action research that is relevant and practical for all educators. The essential research principles, strategies, and theoretical concepts have been well explained and are clearly connected and reinforced through concrete examples in his book. I am confident that Action Research for Educators will provide a positive contribution to education and improve our skills as educators.

Robert K. Wilhite

Are you planning to conduct action research or are you teaching an action research course? If so, this book is for you. The book provides you with all you need from a description of how action research varies using qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, through models of action research with excellent examples, to methods of evaluating action research. Action Research for Educators is a must-have book for anyone involved in action research.

Edward C. Mann

Tomal's book thoughtfully weaves the theoretical underpinnings of action research with practical step-by-step insights about a procedure model for conducting action research. It is organized in a manner to give the neophyte, novice, advanced teacher or administrator viable methods for conducting both formal and informal action research. This book is a must for every educator's bookshelf committed to inquiry and the principles of reflective research.

Gary N. Frisch

Tomal's book provides a practical and understandable approach to action research that can validate improvement strategies to foster gains in student achievement. He removes the stigma of research with his clear explanation of terms, illustrative examples, and is able to convey complex concepts in understandable language. This is a must read for any educator looking to take his or her practice to the next level.

Robert A. Rammer

Practical, feasible, collaborative not only defines the process of action research, but also describes this well written, accessible Action Research text. Highly recommended as a college-level text as well as a guide for staff developers and classroom teachers seeking to improve their practice and student learning.

Joan B. Lampert

This is a book that is both substantive and readable. Action research has a tremendous potential for school reform that has yet to be tapped. Tomal builds an understanding of this important concept from the ground up by providing a strong theoretical framework, and clear concrete examples.

James A. Rycik

Tomal provides a guide to action research that should be in the library of every educator. The principles of this book have the potential to motivate teachers, inspire best practices, and to pursue action plans that transform schools. Reading this book will enhance the practice of novice educators interested in problem solving and heighten the resolve of experienced educators to engage in practical research. A must-read for practicing educators and students. Essential.

(For The First Edition) Choice

Tomal provides a guide to action research that should be in the library of every educator. The principles of this book have the potential to motivate teachers, inspire best practices, and to pursue action plans that transform schools. Reading this book will enhance the practice of novice educators interested in problem solving and heighten the resolve of experienced educators to engage in practical research. A must-read for practicing educators and students. Essential.

Choice