1.1 Explain the purpose of action research

Unit 6

Produce a written account to:

Analyse the implications of a model of action research.

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1.1: Explain the purpose of action research1.2: Analyse key features of the action research process1.3: Analyse the implications of a model of action research

For this unit, you are going to complete a piece of action research. This task begins with the proposal.

– Describe an area of practice that you would like to develop and improve in an innovative way
– Provide a key research question or statement (title) that shows what you are aiming to improve
– Explain the strategy you are going to use for your innovative improvement and justify your choice of improvement strategy
– Describe the timeframe of your improvement strategy
– Explain how you will follow ethical considerations in relation to confidentiality, safeguarding, and data protection

Your research proposal is the first stage to preparing for your research project. You will be able to think of an innovative way to improve practice, where you will then implement your strategy and analyse the results.

You may wish to think about areas such as using digital technologies, innovative assessment, promoting motivation through a particular method, adaptation of resources. Your research question should be specific and related to your own practice.

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2.1: Justify own choice of an area of practice for action research2.2: Plan a clear intervention strategy2.3: Justify the choice and timescales of an intervention strategy2.4: Explain how ethical and political considerations and issues of confidentiality will be observed in practice

Complete a literature review to show how you have used previous knowledge and theory to justify your approach.

Your literature review should be approximately 800-1000 words in length.

A minimum of three pieces of literature should be reviewed.

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4.1: Draw on selected literature relating to an area of practice for action research.

Complete a methodology report that will:
– Evaluate a range of methods for action research
– Evaluate methods of collecting qualitative and quantitative data.
– Review ways in which collected data may be analysed
– Identify, describe, and justify the choice of methods you will use to measure the success of your action research.

Your report will explain a range of methods and methodologies, before discussing and justifying on your chosen methods.

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3.1: Evaluate methods for action research3.2: Evaluate methods of collecting qualitative and quantitative data3.3: Review ways in which collected data may be analysed4.2: Justify own choice of methods selected for action research

Once you have implemented your change, you will write a report to cover what you did and what you found out. You should cover the following in your answer:

– What you did (including any evidence, pictural, plans, feedback, reviews)
– Present and review your data
– Explain what your data means and record your findings
– Report your conclusions
– Discuss recommendations that you would do to move forward based upon your conclusions

This is an extensive piece that will vary in how it is presented depending upon the project you have undertaken. The work will include a range of diagrams, tables, charts, and photographs, depending upon the work you have carried out.

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2.5: Implement a clear intervention strategy4.3: Collect data relating to an area of practice for action research4.4: Analyse data collected from action research4.5: Present data collected from action research4.6: Draw conclusions based on findings from action research5.1: Report own findings and conclusions from action research5.2: Justify own recommendations for action to be taken based on conclusions from action research

Write a reflective account based upon your own practice in your action research project. You should:

– Analyse the effectiveness of own practice in relation to action research.
– Identify own strengths and areas for improvement in relation to action research.
– Plan opportunities to improve own skills in action research.

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6.1: Analyse the effectiveness of own practice in relation to action research

6.2: Identify own strengths and areas for improvement in relation to action research

Sample Answer

1.1 Explain the Purpose of Action Research

Action research is a method of inquiry that involves a cyclical process of planning, acting, observing, and reflecting, aimed at improving practice through practical intervention. The purpose of action research is to address specific issues or challenges in a real-world setting, with the practitioner actively involved in the research process. It is particularly useful in educational, healthcare, and business environments where continuous improvement is key. The goal is to make informed changes, foster innovation, and enhance the effectiveness of existing practices through evidence-based decision-making. Action research allows for practical solutions that can be implemented and refined iteratively, empowering individuals to take ownership of their own learning and improvement processes.

1.2 Analyse Key Features of the Action Research Process

The action research process typically follows a cyclical pattern involving the following key stages:

Identifying the Problem: This involves recognizing a specific issue in practice that requires improvement or further understanding.Planning: The researcher develops a plan for intervention, including clear objectives, methods, and a strategy for collecting data.Acting (Intervention): The planned intervention is implemented in practice, with the researcher actively participating in the process.Observing: Data is collected during the intervention to assess its impact and effectiveness.Reflecting: The researcher reflects on the outcomes, identifying successes, challenges, and areas for further action. Based on this reflection, the cycle can repeat, with the intervention being adjusted and improved as necessary.

The iterative nature of action research allows for flexibility and adaptation, making it an effective tool for continuous improvement. Key features include collaboration with stakeholders, a focus on practical outcomes, and the integration of both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods.

1.3 Analyse the Implications of a Model of Action Research

One commonly used model of action research is Kurt Lewin`s `Action Research Spiral`. This model emphasizes a cyclical process of planning, action, and reflection, repeating as necessary to achieve sustained improvement. The implications of using this model are significant:

Structured Flexibility: The spiral structure offers a framework that is flexible enough to adapt to changes in context and emerging findings, but still provides a systematic approach to problem-solving.Collaborative Learning: Lewin’s model promotes collaboration, allowing practitioners to work closely with participants and stakeholders, thus fostering a shared commitment to improvement.Continuous Improvement: By encouraging cycles of reflection and action, the model promotes continuous learning and improvement, making it particularly effective in dynamic environments.Time-Intensive: The iterative nature of the model means that action research can be time-consuming, requiring ongoing adjustments and prolonged periods of reflection.

Research Proposal

Area of Practice for Development

I aim to develop and improve the use of digital technologies in the assessment process within the education sector. The goal is to enhance student engagement and provide more personalized feedback using digital assessment tools.

Research Question

“How can the implementation of digital assessment tools improve student engagement and the quality of feedback in the classroom?”

Improvement Strategy

The strategy will involve introducing digital assessment tools such as online quizzes, feedback apps, and interactive platforms. These tools allow real-time feedback and enable teachers to provide personalized comments more efficiently. The justification for this strategy is based on research indicating that digital tools improve student motivation and make feedback more accessible and timely.

Timeframe

The intervention will be implemented over a 12-week period. The first two weeks will be used for training staff and students on the use of the digital tools. Data will be collected throughout the process, with mid-term feedback gathered in week six, followed by a final assessment at the end of week twelve.

Ethical Considerations

To ensure confidentiality, all data will be anonymized, and participants will be informed of how their data will be used. Safeguarding measures will be followed, particularly regarding student participation. In accordance with GDPR guidelines, all data will be securely stored and only accessible to authorized personnel.