Reflections about the Research Class

I really enjoyed this class. The assignments and activities were very helpful in the process of understanding research. They were beneficial in the sense that I had great depth and understanding of the process and reasons for the action research. Learning from others doing research in the same field that I am was very helpful also. I was able to make many connections with this class, review data and really grow my understanding of the research process.


I learned a lot from the lectures and readings. I also found the Dana text to be very useful and related to what we do on a regular basis. I learned to begin to make searches online and gain new insights of different types of research, teaching methods, and learning styles. One part of the readings that I remember very well from the Dana text is the wondering questions. (Dana, 2009, p 30) Her explanation on how do I find my wonderings and questions opened my eyes for a world of opportunities for research in my job. My favorite part was when Dana discussed how do I find time to engage in inquiry as a principal (Dana, 2009, p 15). I really learned a lot from this text!


The discussion board and blog really helped me to mature my ideas and understanding with the assignments. I learned from the suggestions and criticism from the other students. I have never had an experience of participating in a discussion board, it was very interesting! I noticed we all growing in the same direction, with similar struggles. The blog process was very challenging but I found it very helpful as I began to use it.


The challenging part of my research will be the data collection. The whole process of taking data from the previous year and analyzing every aspect will be a big job but there is so much to learn from it. I am looking forward to learn from all the collected data to promote change and improvement in my practice. As Dana explains in the text, the research needs to include detailed explanations of all procedures and an explanation of how data were analyzed. (Dana, 2009 p. 181). I know that I will have to use data on a daily basis with my current position but I will also be able to assist my principal and other colleagues in reference to our school data and the future of our school.


I know that this year will be a challenge in many ways but I am looking forward to learn and grow from this research experience. My principal is supporting and trusting me with this project. I definitely want to be able to help and make a difference in the lives of the students involved, and grow with this learning experience.

Revised and approved by my site supervisor - Action Research Plan

Goal - To support 5th grade girls emotionally and academically, reduce the number of behavior referrals by at least 50%, and reduce bullying.

Activities – Group activities that involve anger management, social, organization and study skills, anti-bullying activities, etc.

Resources - I will select the girls for the group based on test score data and teacher identification of 5th grade girls who are having difficulties with academic performance and behavior that includes bullying.

Timeline – September 2010 – May 2011:
September 2010 – Collaboration with teachers and administrators regarding potential 5th grade girls to be selected for this project.
October 2010 – Evaluate assessments from Benchmark test and Universal Screening to determine the final selection of participating students.
October 2010 – April 2011 – Small group sessions with selected 5th grade girls.
May 2011 – Completion of the action research.

Persons – Counselor, 5th grade teachers, assistant principal, principal, mentors and parents.

Process – Grade level meetings with teacher and administrators that occurs weekly, assessment documentation from previous and current year, academic work from the classroom, and all other documentation from all stakeholders who are involved with selected students.

Assessment – Student test scores from previous and current year, data from student profile, discipline referrals and teacher observations.