I have enjoyed my journey through this course. I have to admit that I was nervous when I realized the name of the course, but as I got into the content I soon realized that this course was going to give me the tools to grow as a developing leader. During the five week period of this course, I was able to increase my knowledge of research. I was also able to understand and appreciate the use of action research, inquiry, and reflection as an educator.
With the readings I was able to learn about the vast amount of time and effort it takes to develop a meaningful inquiry question or statement. During the first week of reading in the Dana text, Leading With Passion And Knowledge, Chapter 1, I learned what action research is and how it is useful in an educational setting. When I read chapter 2 of the same text in week 2, I had a wonderful insight into my inquiry and what I felt passionate about. The eight steps helped me derive my final inquiry for my project. Learning about the nine areas that are common targets or themes of school-based action research was one thing that stands out about the text. Reading about these areas helped me realize that there are many avenues in a school where action research could be beneficial. I have spoken with my principal and we are coming up with ideas to use inquiry as staff development for the next school year.
As I worked through the assignments I found myself becoming more comfortable with the action research process. I can tell that the developers of this course and its content took careful consideration to do this. I have to say that at the end of this course I find myself excited to get started with my inquiry. I think my favorite assignment was during week three. This is the assignment that required me to develop my draft of my action research plan. As I went through the steps, I realized how meticulous I need to be in implementing my plan. I want to thank the course professors for considering all of this when creating the assignments.
The discussion board was my favorite part of the course. I enjoyed reading what my peers are considering in their action research projects. I valued the comments that I received on my postings. Some of the discussions helped me reflect on my own project and avenues I need to pursue during the project. Another thing about the discussion board that was useful to me was being able to hear about other schools. I know that we are all going through some of the same challenges, which made me feel more comfortable with this course and the masters program.
I was nervous about the blog, being that I didn’t even really know what a blog was prior to this course. I have become more comfortable with it, and I do enjoy reading other blogs and reflecting on my own. It has helped me practice self reflection. That is a great thing since self reflection is an area that I need more development in. I am considering having my current class participate in a blog during the second semester.
Overall, I know that I have grown throughout this course. I also am aware that my research abilities have improved. The most important thing that has happened to me during this course is that my confidence has increased. That, in itself, is worth a million dollars to me.
