Key Concepts on Research (Module 3)

Key Concepts on research

INFO 5345Valerie Larpenteur

Conducting action research projects can enhance school library programs and improve the effectiveness of school librarians.

The Teacher Librarianas Action Researcher

The study showed that the majority of librarians who participated in action research projects found the process to be worthwhile and that it increased collaborations and empowerment.

Action Research Empowers School Librarians

This chapter discusses advantages/disadvantages of the 3 types of methods used to collect data.

Ch. 5: Data Collection Techniques

1

2

3

Application

Application

Application

Application

As a school librarian, I am constantly looking for ideas and inspiration for improving the programs, lessons, and collaborative projects with teachers. Conducting an action research project would provide a systematic process when addressing problems. I think it would also be beneficial to hear other staff members' ideas for action research projects. As a first year school librarian, I plan to look at common formative assessment, MAP, and STAAR data in order to pinpoint any weaknesses. Then I can use this data to create a plan for supporting staff and students in this area.

3 Methods for Collecting Data

• Questionnaires & interviews are used to collect data about a person's beliefs and attitudes.
• Observations are used for understanding behaviors.
• The type of question/problem should be considered when deciding which method to use and the types of questions to ask/behavior to observe.

References

Connaway, L. S., & Powell, R. R. (2010). Basic research methods for librarians, fifth edition. ABC-CLIO.Martin, J. & Tallman J. (2001). The teacher-librarian as action researcher. Teacher Librarian, 29(2), 8-10. Robins, J. (2015). Action research empowers school librarians. School Library Research, 18.

• Professional Action Research
• Follows research methods used by academic journals
• Personal Action Research
• Goal is to improve local conditions and student success
• Political Action Research
• May be large or small projects
• Brings change to the community

"With action research, school librarians-and other educators-see themselves as a source of reform rahter than the object in need of improvement" (Robins, 2015, pg. 26).

Types of Action Research

1. Identify a problem.
2. Collect/analyze data.
3. Study literature surrounding the problem.
4. Implement a strategy.

Four Steps in the Action Research Cycle:

Key Concept

Application

Observation- I can use this data collection technique when determining barriers students face when trying to locate and access material in the library's collection, and how to overcome the barriers.

Application

As first-year school librarian, I can conduct a personal action research project by identifying a problem or weakness in the collection using the circulation data from Destiny. I can then research different solutions before implementing a plan. Finally, I can evaluate the plan for effectiveness.I can also conduct a personal action research project involving the library's makerspace. I can work on improving the makerspace and making the available projects more engaging for students and STEAM-focused.