Action research is a dynamic use of problem-solving, best practices, analysis and change in a collaborative atmosphere. It is a deliberate on-going process addressing a specific goal. As another colleague said, because this kind of research takes place in the classroom, campus or district, problems can be identified more quickly and solutions can be put into place and evaluated in an effort to constantly improve in a more streamlined way.
As an educational leader, it is imperative we empower campus administrators, teacher teams and individual teachers to be creative in their application of best practices. Without that creatve input, we put our districts in danger of stagnation. Building trust in the people leading, as well as in the vision for the district, is something a superintendent must constantly work improve. Unless teachers feel comfortable sharing their ideas about what needs improved and committing to that improvement, a district will not be as successful as it could possibly be. Success of action research is also dependent on campus administrators being trained to encourage leadership among teachers and the development of teacher action research teams. Becoming a leader of leaders is the key to success in this model. It just makes sense to develop this in our districts to bring in the best ideas to address problems unique to our own communities.
As with most initiatives in education, success begins with the leader. I like your phrase, "becoming a leader of leaders."
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