How to Get the Best from Action Research — A Guidebook

Abstract

Action Research is increasingly being used on many education and training programmes. As an approach that focuses research on live issues in order to take action, it fits well with action learning. Experience shows, however, that careful consideration needs to be given to selecting, designing and implementing projects. This Guidebook helps the would‐be action researcher to do this. It is part text and part workbook, covering the need for and use of action research, explaining the essential features and pitfalls, and indicating ways in which action research can be developed and put to work. The use of checklists, action plans and examples makes it an effective means of helping to produce a good action research project for those undertaking action oriented learning programmes. It results in a statement of the project, methods, opportunities, learning benefits and further developments. A list of further readings is provided for those who wish to go more deeply into the concepts and ideas underpinning action research, action learning and related matters.