Methodology paper history and origin of IT

Action research can be regarded as a methodology intended to encompass both the action outcomes and research outcomes (Stringer, 2007). It has also been defined as a disciplined process of inquiry conducted by and for those involved in an action. The principal reason for conducting an action research is to help the "actor" in improving or refining his or her course of actions. Kurt Lewin is considered the ‘father’ of action research. As a German social and experimental psychologist, he engaged in investigating social problems, and in his research, he identified that participative group processes are best in addressing conflict, crises, and change, within the society and organizations. According to Klein (2012), Action Research applies holistic approach and problem-solving processes rather than just identifying a problem, collecting data, analyzing it and recommending a course of solutions. Unlike the regular qualitative and quantitative research strategies that majorly apply a single research tool, action research allows for several different research tools to be used whole a project is being conducted. Among the various tools, which utilized in action research paradigm, include research journal, participant observation, and recordings, questionnaire methods, structured and unstructured interviews, as well as case studies (Parsonse et al., 2013).

While conducting an action research, the researcher undergoes of steps. According to Craig (2009), there are nine basic steps involved in the conducting of action research. These include determining the research topic based on the problem at hand, gathering information, reviewing literature, developing a research plan, implementing the plan by using it to collect evidence (data), analyzing the data, developing an action plan, sharing the results and finally, reflecting on the research process. The above steps have been compressed into four basic phases namely the planning phase, the acting phase, the developing phase and the reflective phase. These steps continue in another cycle since the first round of the action research might not deliver the best solution (Klein, 2012).

In elaboration of the above phases, at the initial stage, the problem is identified, and a plan of actions decided. Apparently, a plan of action implies that the researcher lists many necessary steps to solve a problem. Data is then collected after which a detailed diagnosis of the problem using the several possible solutions is done. After this, a single plan of action emerges and is implemented in the acting phase. The results of the intervention are analyzed, and findings interpreted in light of how successful the action can be in solving the problem. In the development phase, the solution found is modified to suit various problems of different magnitudes. Finally, the problem is a reflection of the process to see whether there were errors. This process continues until the problem is resolved (Herr & Anderson, 2014).

Justification

Action research is preferred due to the following reasons. Firstly, it’s scientific in nature. That is because it makes use of data rather than hunches and theoretical assumptions to guide the researcher to undertaking some course of actions (Stringer, 2007). Secondly, it’s the best method of solving a real problem in real situations. However, due to its power, it is also used by social scientists for conducting pilot research, especially when the researcher finds that the situation is too ambiguous to frame a precise research question.

Action research reveals the gaps between beliefs and what can be practiced. After the results are found, they are put into action, and their applicability is learned rather than just recommended. Action research is thus the best method of identifying the best social, educational, economic and political practices (Parsons et al., 2013).

References

Craig, D. V. (2009). Action research essentials. San Francisco, Calif: Jossey-Bass.

Herr, K., & Anderson, G. L. (2014). The action research dissertation: A guide for students and faculty. Sage Publications.

Klein, S. (2012). Action research methods: Plain and simple. New York: Palgrave Macmillan.

Parsons, J., Hewson, K., Adrian, L., & Day, N. (2013). Engaging in action research: A practical guide to teacher-conducted research for educators and school leaders.

Stringer, E. T. (2007). Action research. Thousand Oaks: Sage Publications.

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