Action Research for Educators: (The Concordia University Leadership Series)

This book is a straightforward, no-nonsense guide to a research method that can be used by educators to increase student learning, student self-esteem, and quality of school life in the classroom. This user-friendly book covers the principles and history of action research, ethical and legal considerations, methods for conducting both formal and informal action research, data collection methods, analysis and interpretation, action planning and initiation, and results evaluation. The author includes numerous examples, strategies, and illustrations that can be applied to elementary and secondary schools as well as university settings.

Table of Contents:
Chapter 1 Foreword Chapter 2 Introduction Chapter 3 The Nature of Educational Research Chapter 4 Action Research Chapter 5 Data Collection Methods Chapter 6 Data Analysis and Interpretation Chapter 7 Solving Problems and Taking Action Chapter 8 Evaluating Action Research Chapter 9 Conducting Action Research

About the Author :
Daniel R. Tomal is a professor of educational leadership and research at Concordia University Chicago. He is also a consultant and the author of nine books such as Challenging Students to Learn. He has made guest appearances on many national radio and television shows.

Review :
Tomal provides a guide to action research that should be in the library of every educator. The principles of this book have the potential to motivate teachers, inspire best practices, and to pursue action plans that transform schools. Reading this book will enhance the practice of novice educators interested in problem solving and heighten the resolve of experienced educators to engage in practical research. A must-read for practicing educators and students. Essential. Are you planning to conduct action research or are you teaching an action research course? If so, this book is for you. The book provides you with all you need from a description of how action research varies using qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, through models of action research with excellent examples, to methods of evaluating action research. Action Research for Educators is a must-have book for anyone involved in action research. This is a book that is both substantive and readable. Action research has a tremendous potential for school reform that has yet to be tapped. Tomal builds an understanding of this important concept from the ground up by providing a strong theoretical framework, and clear concrete examples. Tomal provides an excellent basis for understanding action research that is relevant and practical for all educators. The essential research principles, strategies, and theoretical concepts have been well explained and are clearly connected and reinforced through concrete examples in his book. I am confident that Action Research for Educators will provide a positive contribution to education and improve our skills as educators. This book is excellent with relevant and very clearly presented information regarding action research. My students find it very helpful. As school leaders search for answers to questions about the best way to improve the teaching and learning process, one of the most critical challenges they face is connecting the dots between were they are and where they want to be. This book is a comprehensive tool to support a professional learning community in identifying a problem, collecting and analyzing relevant data, and establishing clear, specific goals that are focused on student learning. Tomal's book provides a practical and understandable approach to action research that can validate improvement strategies to foster gains in student achievement. He removes the stigma of research with his clear explanation of terms, illustrative examples, and is able to convey complex concepts in understandable language. This is a must read for any educator looking to take his or her practice to the next level. Practical, feasible, collaborative not only defines the process of action research, but also describes this well written, accessible Action Research text. Highly recommended as a college-level text as well as a guide for staff developers and classroom teachers seeking to improve their practice and student learning. Tomal's book thoughtfully weaves the theoretical underpinnings of action research with practical step-by-step insights about a procedure model for conducting action research. It is organized in a manner to give the neophyte, novice, advanced teacher or administrator viable methods for conducting both formal and informal action research. This book is a must for every educator's bookshelf committed to inquiry and the principles of reflective research.