Reflections on EDLD 5301, EA 1281, Sept. 2011

Reflections on EDLD 5301 Research This research course basically focused on the entirety of the action research plan.  Week one talked about action research and blogs.  Though this was my second opportunity to create a blog for academic purposes, I still felt like this was a brand new adventure.  After utilizing my blog and viewing my colleagues’ blogs, I know that I need further practice in this area.  For week two, my favorite highlight was the video that featured Dr. Johnny Briseno, Principal of Rancho Isabella Elementary, Angleton ISD; Dr. Timothy Chargois, Director of Research, Planning and Development in Beaumont ISD; and Dr. Kirk Lewis, Superintendent of Pasadena ISD.  These men gave excellent suggestions regarding action research plans, and as a result of this video, I realized that I had to change my action research plan to a practical action research plan.  I am glad I did, and I am excited to follow my action research plan to see what the end result will be.   Week three focused on my favorite book for this course.  Harris S., Edmonson S., Combs J. (2010), Examining What We Do To Improve Our Schools; 8 Steps From Analysis To Action.  Larchmont, New York:  Eye On Education.  This book highlighted eight steps to follow for an action research plan, and these eight steps were very helpful in the planning process of my action research plan. Week four instructed me to meet with my site supervisor regarding my action research plan, to collaborate on details, and to reach an agreement on my final revision.  This was an interesting process because after we sat down together and viewed the draft, my site supervisor was able to walk through my action research plan and talk about the necessary revisions needed to better implement the action research plan. Finally, week five shares the five quality indicators for practitioner research.  The five indicators give suggestions and questions that will help me throughout the continuing process of my research.