Action Research Package for Teacher Educators

The document outlines the principles and procedures of action research, a methodology used by teacher educators to investigate and improve their teaching practices. Action research is a cyclical process that involves identifying a problem in teaching practice, developing a plan of action, collecting data, assessing the effectiveness of the plan, and revising the approach as needed. The ARP provides a step-by-step guide to conducting action research, including the use of the Action Research Tool (ART) to facilitate the inquiry process. The ARP emphasizes the importance of collaboration and reflection in the action research process. Teacher educators are encouraged to work with colleagues in Learning Circles to share feedback, make decisions about next steps, and support one another in their professional development. The document highlights the key components of the action research process, including: 1. Identifying a problem in teaching practice and articulating the learning goals for students. 2. Developing a plan of action, including specific instructional strategies and data collection tools. 3. Collecting data to assess the effectiveness of the plan and identify areas for improvement. 4. Reflecting on the data and revising the approach as needed. The ARP also provides a template for the Action Research Inquiry Cycle, which includes the following stages: 1. Problem identification and articulation of learning goals. 2. Development of a plan of action, including instructional strategies and data collection tools. 3. Data collection and analysis. 4. Reflection and revision of the approach. The document concludes by emphasizing the importance of ongoing inquiry and improvement in teaching practice. By using the ARP and the Action Research Tool, teacher educators can develop a systematic approach to investigating and improving their teaching practices, leading to better outcomes for students. The ARP is designed to be a flexible and adaptable guide, allowing teacher educators to tailor the action research process to their specific needs and contexts. The document provides a range of resources and tools to support the action research process, including templates, checklists, and examples of action research projects. Overall, the Action Research Package for Teacher Educators LTD Program 2013 is a valuable resource for teacher educators seeking to improve their teaching practices and develop a more systematic approach to ongoing professional development.