Question, Research, Collaborate, Reflect, Change, IMPROVE!

Action Research?
     Administrative inquiry or action research is the systematic process an administrator goes through as they strive to continuously grow as an administrator and improve their school.  In this process, the administrator reflects on their school and practices, identifies a question or something they are wondering about, researches by reading and collecting data, and reflects on their new learning to decide what changes should be made based on what they have learned.  This is a process I imagine a lifelong learner engaging in – always seeking and striving to improve.  Action research can take place in various forms, including Professional Learning Communities, Leadership Teams, and Principal Meetings.  This type of research is different from traditional educational research, which does not necessary include the voices of the people working in the school building on a daily basis and does not necessary lead to change.  I want to be the type of administrator that constantly uses administrative inquiry as a way of improving the school I work with to ensure that we are doing what’s best for the school and students I work with!


Why Blog?
     Educational leaders can use blogs in a variety of different ways.  For example, we can use it as part of action research.  I can talk about a concern or wondering that I have, and followers can collaborate with me and tell me about their experiences.  Educational leaders can also use blogs as newsletters to keep teachers, parents, and students informed and updated on assignments and things that are happening in the school community.  This keeps all information in one place and helps to prevent an overflow of emails that can get overwhelming to keep up with and get lost in the shuffle.