Choosing a Research Topic

Important information: Grade level taught is 1st grade. Action research is a dynamic and iterative process that plays a pivotal role in improving practices and addressing real-world problems in various fields, such as education, healthcare, and business. It serves as the foundation for continuous improvement, innovation, and evidence-based decision-making. By conducting research within their own context, professionals can tailor solutions that are practical and effective. Action research typically follows a cycle that includes identifying a problem, planning, and implementing interventions, collecting and analyzing data, and reflecting on results. During this course, you will plan an action research study. According to the text, successful action research follows a standard four-stage process: Clarifying vision and targets Articulating theory Collecting data and implementing action Reflecting on data and planning informed action This assignment will provide a foundation for understanding the research process used throughout the course. You will complete a research proposal that includes Stages 1 and 2 of the research process and develop a plan for Stages 3 and 4. You will not collect data or recruit participants. This course is designed to plan a proposal for a study that could be implemented in your current or future professional setting. Select two areas of interest in your professional setting that need to be addressed (e.g., a teacher may consider reading comprehension and social-emotional learning, an employee at a corporation may consider best practices for a hybrid work environment and work-from-home policies.). Identify one specific topic or focus for each area to investigate. Complete a 150-250 word rationale for each area of research and include the following: Why you selected the two areas of research (e.g., reading comprehension and social-emotional learning) A specific topic or focus to investigate for each area of research (e.g., the effects of student engagement on reading comprehension, the effects of parental involvement on social-emotional learning) What methodology do you think will work best for your research (qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods) and what instruments/tools you could use to gather data How your research will contribute to improved efficiencies and outcomes in your current or future professional setting In addition, write a 150-250 word summary of the four stages of the action research process, including a definition of the theory of action. Support your work with 3-5 scholarly resources.