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Lindsay Krueger
Caldwell ISD - Instructional Technology Coach
Assessing Digital Learning
Action Research
What is Action Research?
The basic process of conducting action research consists of four steps:
1. Identifying an area of focus
2. Collecting Data
3. Analyzing and interpreting the data
4. Developing a plan of action (Mertler, 2020).
My research is connected to my innovation plan which focuses on "Enhancing Education Through ePortfolios in Career and Technical Education (CTE) Courses''. My research question is "In what ways do ePortfolios impact student learning and engagement in Career and Technical Education classrooms?" This question will address the many effects that occur due to ePortfolio implementation on both students and the educational environment. By using both qualitative and quantitative research I will be able to provide a more complete understanding of the impact of ePortfolios being used in educational settings. Click on the link above to explore my Action Plan Outline.
To address the challenges students face in organizing digital documents, teachers should integrate ePortfolios which will empower students in their learning journey. In my research I have found that ePortfolios are beneficial in showcasing achievements, and fostering reflection, and communication. Various types of ePortfolios help in facilitating differentiation and progress monitoring. Giving students design control, accountability, and reflection processes are essential components for ePortfolios to be effective. The expectation of the ePortfolio is that it should be ongoing. Sample work should be carried over from class to class, year to year, building a collection that shows growth and reflection. Click on the link above to view my Literature Review on Enhancing Education Through ePortfolios in Career and Technical Education Courses.
Action research is to improve educational practices and outcomes by investigating a problem or issue that you are facing. After creating an outline and researching the topic, I was able to create a detailed plan of action. According to Craig Mertler, action research is important for several reasons. It empowers educators to take control of their own professional development and learning. It helps educators address the specific needs and challenges of their students and schools. It fosters a culture of collaboration and reflection among educators and stakeholders. It contributes to the advancement of educational knowledge and practice. If you would like to learn more about my Action Research on ePortfolios, click the link above.
References
Mertler, C. A. (2020). Action Research: Improving Schools and Empowering Educators (6th ed.). SAGE
Publications.
What is action research? (n.d.). Www.youtube.com. Retrieved February 20, 2024, from
https://youtu.be/Ov3F3pdhNkk?si=Eajy2u7CpIiohEIG.
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