Action research is a disciplined process of inquiry conducted by and for those taking the action. Instead of researchers doing research on or about other people, action research engages researchers and participants as co-investigators. The focus is on solving real problems or improving real practices. Some key steps in conducting an action research project are:
Identify an area for improvement – The first step is to identify an area or problem within your organization, classroom, or community that could benefit from change or improvement. This could be related to practices, processes, resources, outcomes, etc. Discuss with stakeholders to get their input and support.
Review relevant literature – Conduct a review of published research, reports, case studies, and other literature related to your identified area for improvement. This will help you understand what work has already been done, what ideas or approaches have been found effective or not effective, and how your project may contribute new insights.
Develop a research plan – With your area identified and background research complete, develop a detailed plan for your action research project. Define your research objectives or questions. Determine your methodology, which may involve both qualitative and quantitative data collection. Develop instruments and protocols for gathering data. Outline a timeline. Obtain necessary permissions and ethical approval.
Implement new approach – With your research plan in place, it’s time to implement a new approach, strategy, process or resource aimed at the identified area for improvement. This new approach is the “action” part of action research. Keep clear records of what is implemented and how. Be prepared to modify and adapt your approach based on early findings or challenges encountered.
Collect and analyze data – Throughout the implementation of your new approach, collect both qualitative and quantitative data based on your research questions and methodology. Use tools like observations, interviews, surveys, documentation review. Regularly analyze your emerging data to identify trends, strengths, weaknesses or new questions while your approach is underway.
Interpret results and draw conclusions – Once your action period is complete, bring all your data together for in-depth analysis and interpretation. Draw conclusions about the effectiveness of your new approach, as well as any unintended outcomes or new issues revealed. Identify lessons learned about what worked well and what could be improved. Consider how results compare to your background literature review.
Evaluate and refine – Critically evaluate the success of your action research project based on the conclusions. Revisit your original objectives and methodology. Identify how your new approach and results will inform ongoing improvement efforts. Determine any refinements needed for your approach, research plan, or area identified for improvement. Consider implications for theory, practice, and future research.
Take informed action – The ultimate goal is to use what you learned to effectively address the problem or need that initiated the research. Take action to continually improve practices, disseminate results, refine theories, and influence future projects and research. Continue the cycle of plan-act-observe-reflect with stakeholders based on your conclusions to advance meaningful organizational, community, or social change.
Disseminate results – Share the outcomes of your action research broadly through publications, presentations, reports and other relevant channels. This allows others working on similar problems to learn from your efforts. It also increases the validity and credibility of action research as a democratic, collaborative approach to problem-solving and progressive change.
Action research follows a cyclical process of plan-act-observe-reflect with key steps of identifying an area for improvement, researching background information, developing a research plan, implementing actions, collecting and analyzing data, interpreting results, and taking further action. It aims to simultaneously solve problems and generate new knowledge to aid future decision making through collaborative, systematic inquiry.