Action research, or administrative inquiry, is a lot like teacher inquiry, only focused on a leadership type situation. For teachers, it allows them to analyze their classroom practices. For administrators, it allows them to understand why they do the things they do, and hopefully by reflecting, analyzing and reading relative material, empower administrators to make better choices regarding their actions and planning. The text, Leading With Passion and Knowledge: The Principal as Action Researcher by Nancy Fichtman Dana, defines administrator inquiry as “the process of a principal engaging in systematic, intentional study of his/her own administrative practice and taking action for change based on what he/she learns as a result of inquiry.” (Dana, 2009, pg.2) It is a crucial professional development component in the principal’s continual development as an educational leader.
It is different from traditional forms of research, which are strictly top down delivery of information. Much like the old instructional model of teacher lecture – student listen. Action research is more responsive to the individual needs of the campus and is of a collaborative nature.
Since action research is a collaborative effort, it allows leaders to collect the information pertinent to their situation, and develop expertise in this area. Then they can move toward becoming an expert that the campus staff will recognize and look to for continued inspired leadership.
Dana, N. F. (2009). Leading with passion and knowledge: The principal as action researcher. Thousand Oaks: Corwin.
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