Action Research...

Action Research is research that focuses on the concerns of those involved or the practioners (Dana 2009). It extends beyond the examination and analysis of textbooks and various publications.  Action research encourages the practioners to look at multiple resources (publications, peers, experts, stakeholders, and data) to come up with the best plan.  However it does not stop there.  It is necessary for the practioners to schedule time to evaluate the effectiveness of the plan and to reflect on the course of action.  Further data is taken to assess the plan of action and if necessary, additional research is done to fine tune the plan or to create a new course of action.  The core concept of action research is that it is collaborative and it does not stop once a plan has been agreed on.  It continues as the plan is unfolding and will continue until the goal has been attained.    

Another key component of action research is that it needs to be meaningful and relevant to the people involved.  Stakeholders will have a sense of urgency to find a solution because it matters to them.  They will have a vested interest in tracking the progress of the plan they collaborated in and will be more apt to continue researching to make improvements.