Blog Assignment #1

Seanne Danielak

2/4/11

EDU 590- Blog Post #1

Professor: Mr. Bruce Umpstead

            Describing research from the point of view of many educators as “not worth the effort” is definitely an understatement. In fact, there are many educators that I have been paired up with at conferences that when asked to provide valuable research on a topic, would rather take the next flight to the North Pole. I must admit that I don’t jump for joy when I am told to “go look it up” myself, but after reading the book “Action Research: An Educational Leader’s Guide to School Improvement”, I have now gained a much better appreciation for the importance of having to research a topic and how to become better at it as well.

            I am a music educator. It has been my dream since I was in third grade to teach music and believe me, science was one of those subjects that never came easy to me. However, even though the scientific method never completely lead me to understand why my rocket never made it off of the ground in high school, I do now understand its significance in evaluating one’s teaching. When the author explains how to break a problem down into various questions, finding the solution is easier, more exciting and (I imagine) very educational through the process. I am looking forward to applying this research to my technology and non-technology lessons for my EDU 590 class.

            The text of the book included a brief summary of a day in the working life of Ms. Rodriguez. I was able to relate to the overwhelming schedule that she has to adhere to and it really made me want to read more about this concept because the conclusion pointed out that she had to make many thoughtful and important decisions in a timely manner. How was she able to execute these choices so quickly? Apparently the answer for her (and hopefully for me) is Action Research. This process in various educational situations involves selecting a focus, collecting data, analyzing and interpreting that data, taking action and reflecting on that action. Using this method has many benefits including problem solving, decision making and empowerment (to name a few).

            Through Action Research, I have developed a diagram to assist me in my lesson planning. I have included what I am concerned about my students learning during the lesson, my knowledge of the technology materials that I will be using, and my questions and concerns about the lesson. I am looking forward to collecting this data with my students and utilizing it to find out which lesson plan is more effective for me and beneficial for my students.