Closing Thoughts & Reflection...

When I began EDLD 5301, I had never heard of action research.  However, after reading the text, I was able to understand what it was and how useful it could be for an administrator and/or teacher to use to solve problems on his or her campus.  I really found the numerous examples of action research and how they were implemented very useful in creating my own action research plan.  I also found the videos from the three past graduates of the Education Administration Master’s Program very interesting and insightful.  It helped to hear about their current inquiries in action.  Their experience with action research also helped to substantiate that it actually works and isn’t just a theory put into an educational textbook.   I also enjoyed the comments made by my peers on the discussion board.  Most all of them gave really good feedback.  It is helpful to share with others who are going through the same successes and mistakes that you are.  You realize that you are not the only one who is experiencing struggles.  One of my favorite parts of the course has been the blog.  I will admit that I was not as positive about it when I first read that we had to create one ourselves.  As I said in my discussion post this week, I always had the impression that blogs were difficult to create and took a lot of time to keep up with.  I appreciate the suggestions that I have received from my fellow classmates and have found them to be helpful and honest.  I also had the opportunity to visit with a veteran administrator who helped to guide me through the development of my action research plan.  She provided me with numerous suggestions and ideas that helped me to complete my first draft.  This was especially helpful since our plan was due over the spring break holiday when my site supervisor was not available.  The key, she said, was making sure it was focused, objective, and that my outcome was understood and doable.  Meetings with my site supervisor have also been extremely helpful.  He recommended my topic for action research, so he is very interested in accomplishing and reaching a successful outcome.  He has been very helpful with feedback to the plan itself as well as offering time during faculty meetings for me to have focus group discussions.  He realizes that this action research will benefit our school and is willing to do whatever it takes to help me make it successful.  I find that this is a good example of how working together and collaborating can make for a productive principal and faculty.  If everyone realizes that they are working toward the same goal, educating our students in a lifelong learning environment, things run smoother and the goals of the school are met.