Time to Celebrate!

At the beginning of each week, I attempt to participate (or view) the web conference.  This helps me to create a schedule for the week’s assignment.  Each web conference and lecture outlines the assignments concerned with issues and problems that arise in professional practice.   The web conferences provide better communication in terms of sharing and coordinating questions/answers.  As a tool, they have helped improve my relationships with fellow students and have helped create a support system that allows me to maximize learning.  I am grateful to have had the opportunity to participate in this online trend!

The readings have contributed to my learning by defining research in terms of the aims of the course.  Through the weeks, I have learned that practitioner research provides a framework for formulating knowledge and reflective practice.  Through research, educational leaders should become researchers into their own practice and engage in a continuing process of professional development.  

Recently I referred to the chapter on data collection.  I am most concerned about selecting the right strategies for my action research project.  I have discussed the chapter with my site supervisor to ensure that we agree on the goals, the target data, and the methods to be carried out in my plan.  Not only has the text been a resource for these five weeks, but it will continue to be a reference through the entire research process.

The assignment that had the largest impact on my action research course was in week two.  I thoroughly enjoyed reading about each of the passions.  Not only did they provide wonderings, but they also provided examples, benefits, and exercises to implement on campuses.  My hope is that I can conquer an action research project related to my campus in each of the nine areas over my career. 

The action research plan week was extremely challenging.  The plan evolved over several meetings with my site supervisor, ultimately ending with a feeling of accomplishment! The best part of the entire experience is that I have built a strong relationship with my principal.  I am looking forward to developing, implementing, researching, documenting, reporting, and sharing the outcomes of my proposed inquiry.

Discussion boards and blogs have provided reflective communication. I have been able to read other perspectives and carefully consider my responses.  I participate regularly, and in a more attentive manner.  I have had several conversations through the discussion board, and have developed a strong sense of connection and trust through the online interaction. As I create what I want to write in a blog posting, I often integrate research, reflections, or class readings and information.  I am impressed with my creativity, thoughtfulness, and willingness to capture my thinking.  I plan to continue the habit of updating my online diary throughout my action research project and coursework. 

In closing, I have launched my action research project with the ultimate goal of being a life-long researcher.  I will continue my journey as a model for principal inquiry as I await my next course.  It’s time to celebrate!