Action research is a research method that combines investigation and action simultaneously to solve a problem or improve a practice within a specific context. It is highly interactive and participatory, often used in social sciences and educational settings to bridge the gap between theory and practice
. Key characteristics of action research include:
- It is cyclical, involving repeated cycles of planning, acting, observing, and reflecting to bring about change and improvement
- It emphasizes collaboration, often involving participants as co-researchers who contribute their lived experiences
- It focuses on practical problem-solving rather than solely on theoretical knowledge, aiming to generate actionable knowledge that improves practice or conditions
- It can take different forms, such as participatory action research (empowering community members) and practical action research (focused on solving specific issues)
The general steps in conducting action research are:
- Identifying a problem or question relevant to the context.
- Reviewing existing knowledge or literature.
- Planning and implementing interventions or actions.
- Collecting and analyzing data to evaluate the effects.
- Reflecting on findings and making adjustments for further cycles
Overall, action research is a method of learning by doing, where researchers actively engage in change while studying the process to improve outcomes in educational, organizational, or social settings
