A theoretical framework for action learning and action research is presented, as a basis for better understanding college instruction and learning. Action research is viewed as a philosophy, theory of learning, research methodology, and teaching technique. It is argued that action research both increases knowledge and improves teaching.…

Describes an action research project on English-as-a-Second-Language literacy evaluation and assessment and presents an evaluation grid as one means of quantifying qualitative information through attentive listening and observation. The grid provides a tangible piece of a holistic approach to practitioner-based research into how learners learn and…

Nine principles of participatory action research (PAR) are identification of individual and collective projects; changing power distribution; changing group and institutional culture; acting and reflecting; unifying intellectual and practical projects; producing knowledge; engaging the politics; using methodological resources; and creating theory.…

When a school-university collaboration gave them the opportunity for school-based restructuring, inner-city elementary teachers pursued new teaching practices; assumed responsibility for professional development; examined their practice and supported it with documentation; developed direction and commitment to mutually determined school goals; and…

An Australian action research project to explore the construction of gender in elementary education experienced difficulties resulting from external management and funding. Some project managers had expectations of the participants that resembled a top-down approach to change. (SK)

There is little residue from the cooperative action research movement of the 1940s and 1950s. So far, teachers have found educational research applications of little use. Action research must originate in the classroom. Researchers are advised to keep it simple, become an effective classroom consultant, learn how teachers think, and be modest in…

An obsolete, unworkable approach to achieving high standards is top-down dictation of goals and minimal staff compliance. A constructivist change strategy is based on collaboration. It is an action research and development process enabling everyone to understand the problem, reach agreement on goals, and share responsibility for implementing…

Considers qualitative research the authors (both education professors) conducted while teaching an ethics course in different semesters over seven years. Examines and deconstructs personal and professional codes of ethics, including their own and those of doctoral students. The study found that students' professional and personal ethics codes…

Discusses participatory action research, a methodology incorporating subjects in the research and indexing results to transformation in the lives of those involved. The approach is gaining momentum and recognition in academic circles but is often limited to specialized training centers. Two years of experience teaching this approach in social work…

An undergraduate anthropology course for African Americans is described. The course introduces students to field methodology within the context of African studies; stimulates interest in anthropology;, and facilitates an understanding of activism, action research, and the uses of these concepts in addressing African-American community issues. (MMU)

Since 1988, the University of Amsterdam's Center for Professional Development in Education has collaborated with 20 schools to create the Upper Secondary Education School Network. This paper discusses network development and participants' efforts to interpret and influence government policies, learn from others' experiences, tap into expertise,…

Presents a reflective account of a science teacher's endeavors to use the referent of critical constructivism to transform her pedagogical practices. The context of the action research is a Year 10 bioethics unit taught at an independent girls' school. Contains 44 references. (DDR)

Classroom teachers are uniquely placed to contribute to knowledge about classroom practice. Encourages the search for the key to unlock the research potential of teachers. (DDR)

Explores some of the research that describes the process of growing up to be violent, reviews a typical conflict-resolution program in the schools, and describes an action research project that provides some pointers on the development of conflict-resolution programs that address the problem of violence in greater depth. (SM)

A second-grade teacher conducted a study aimed at raising students' abilities to use certain strategies (predicting, questioning, and connecting to text) and at increasing their enthusiasm for reading via literature circles (book discussion groups). Test and rubric results, survey responses, and interview comments affirm literature circles' value.…