1. What is the objective of conducting action research?
Action research is focused on solving a problem or informing individual and community-based knowledge in a way that impacts teaching, learning, and other related processes. It is less focused on contributing theoretical input, instead producing actionable input. 2. When do we use action research? Action research is used in real situations, rather than in contrived, experimental studies, since its primary focus is on solving real problems. It can, however, be used by social scientists for preliminary or pilot research, especially when the situation is too ambiguous to frame a precise research question. 3. How many cycles are there in Kemmis and Taggart' CAR cycles? Kemmis and McTaggart's Classroom Action Research (CAR) model consists of two cycles. Each cycle comprises four steps: planning, action, observation, and reflection. This cyclical process allows for the iterative improvement of practices through systematic planning, implementation, and reflection. 4. Do you think that educational action research is important for pre-service teachers? Yes, educational action research is important for pre-service teachers as it provides them with numerous benefits and opportunities for professional growth and development. Some of the key reasons why action research is valuable for pre-service teachers include: - Developing New Knowledge: Action research helps teachers develop new knowledge directly related to their classrooms, promoting reflective practice and enhancing their understanding of educational processes - Professional Growth: Engaging in action research allows pre-service teachers to gain a deeper understanding of their teaching practices, improve their instructional skills, and increase their sense of efficacy - Addressing Specific Problems: Action research enables pre-service teachers to identify and address specific issues in their teaching, such as improving student engagement, learning outcomes, and curriculum implementation. - Collaborative Inquiry: The participatory nature of action research fosters collaboration among educators, allowing them to share ideas and learn from one another. - Positive Change: Conducting action research can lead to positive changes in educational practices, benefiting both teachers and students. - Research Competence: Participating in action research projects helps pre-service teachers develop research competence, which is essential for their professional growth and the effective implementation of research-based recommendations. Educational action research is crucial for pre-service teachers as it provides them with valuable opportunities to develop their professional skills, knowledge, and understanding, ultimately leading to improved teaching practices and better outcomes for their students. 5. Do you think EAR course helps you to be a good teacher as your future career? Yes, engaging in Educational Action Research (EAR) can significantly contribute to the development of pre-service teachers and their effectiveness in their future careers. Some of the benefits of educational research for teachers, including pre-service teachers, are as follows: 1. Cultivating a Research-Based Approach: EAR helps in developing a research-based approach to teaching, providing evidence to effect change in teaching, the classroom, and the school. 2. Professional Growth and Confidence: It can lead to increased confidence in one's work, influence on teachers' thinking skills, and a sense of efficacy. 3. Understanding Students and Colleagues: EAR helps teachers understand their students and colleagues better, leading to improved relationships and a deeper understanding of the teaching and learning environment. 4. Improving Teaching Practice: It supports the determination of ways to improve the teaching and learning situation, leading to the development of a strong relationship among colleagues and bringing about positive changes in the pattern of collegiality. 5. Research Competence: Engaging in EAR helps pre-service teachers develop research competence, which is essential for their professional growth and the effective implementation of research-based recommendations. EAR can play a crucial role in preparing pre-service teachers for their future careers by fostering a research-based approach, promoting professional growth, and improving teaching practices. 6. Write a sentence using a metaphor about the educational action research. Engaging in the Educational Action Research (EAR) course can be likened to embarking on a treasure hunt, where students explore new ideas and discover hidden gems of knowledge. It means: This metaphor highlights the journey of self-discovery and professional growth that EAR offers, as students uncover valuable insights and develop practical solutions to enhance their teaching practices and benefit their students.