Hello Everyone,
I also have struggled with the lack of structure, yet demanding responsibilities this semester. Finally, after I feel I have a semi-grasp on AR and exit portfolio stuff, I am now focusing on contract work. I personally feel that action research is wonderful, in theory. It happens daily in a classroom. However to call it research is incorrect. A teacher cannot isolate one variable in a classroom. There a too many. Therefore our action research projects are merely suggestions on patterns we think or want to see. It is impossible to consider this as true factual research. My action research was based on journal writing and its effects on students essays. Were my results based on my rubric? Were my results based on my opinion? There are too many variable to derive a correct answer. This is my basic struggle with my project. Personally, I feel that journals are a great tool. Journals can be used for classroom management as well as developing writing skills.
When it comes to the next book choices, I would like to put my vote towards the Palmer book, but if it is too late let me know. I would like to order this next book early so I am not behind again. I am very sorry this is so late. I am pray that I am ready for whatever the rest of the semester has in store for me.
Crissy
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Thanks for your observations about action research. They got me thinking about the dangers of applying a scientific research definition to research with people. Like you say, there are way too many variables in a classroom to set up "controls" like in say, a sterilized lab environment. I don't think that means what you did for your action research didn't "count" as research, though. The key is the word "action"-- you tried something out to see how it worked. You tinker with it based on results, and you try again and see what happens. Essentially, teaching is research-- it just doesn't look like the research in the medical or other scientific fields.
We're going with the Burke book, so go ahead and order it-- or borrow my copy.
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