Training Course on Action Research for School Improvement

Training Course on Action Research for School Improvement

Introduction
Action research has emerged as a transformative strategy for continuous school improvement, empowering educators, administrators, and stakeholders to address real-world educational challenges through inquiry-based methods. Training Course on Action Research for School Improvement provides an in-depth framework for educators to initiate, design, implement, and evaluate action research projects within their schools. The course aligns with contemporary education reform, data-driven decision-making, and professional learning communities (PLCs), making it a timely and critical initiative for educators in both public and private sectors.
Participants will explore how action research fosters innovation, promotes reflective teaching, supports equity, and improves learning outcomes. The course integrates evidence-based practices, data analysis, collaborative inquiry, and change leadership strategies to empower school improvement planning. Designed for educators at all levels, this course equips participants with the tools and knowledge to become catalysts for change, while embedding a culture of continuous learning and performance enhancement in their schools. Keywords such as “teacher-led inquiry,” “school transformation,” and “evidence-based improvement” are central themes throughout the course.

Course Objectives

1. Understand the fundamentals of action research methodology.
2. Apply data-driven decision-making to inform instructional practices.
3. Identify key school improvement goals using research-based strategies.
4. Design an action research plan aligned with student achievement metrics.
5. Utilize collaborative inquiry to engage faculty in shared learning.
6. Integrate reflective practice into daily teaching routines.
7. Analyze quantitative and qualitative data for evidence-based solutions.
8. Promote equity and inclusion through targeted interventions.
9. Employ strategic planning tools for sustainable change.
10. Foster a culture of innovation in teaching and learning.
11. Align action research with professional development goals.
12. Communicate findings effectively using academic writing and presentation tools.
13. Evaluate the impact of action research on student outcomes and school culture.

Target Audience

1. Primary and secondary school teachers
2. School administrators and principals
3. Curriculum coordinators
4. Instructional coaches
5. Education policymakers
6. Graduate education students
7. Teacher educators and mentors
8. Professional development facilitators

Course Duration: 10 days

Course Modules

Module 1: Introduction to Action Research

• Definition and purpose of action research
• History and evolution in education
• Key characteristics of action research
• Types: Individual, collaborative, and school-wide
• Ethical considerations
• Case Study: How a Kenyan primary school used action research to reduce dropout rates

Module 2: Identifying School Problems and Research Questions

• Techniques for problem identification
• Prioritizing school improvement needs
• Crafting actionable research questions
• Stakeholder input in research design
• Aligning problems with curriculum goals
• Case Study: A high school’s research on late homework submissions

Module 3: Literature Review and Evidence Synthesis

• Purpose of a literature review
• Locating and evaluating educational research
• Synthesizing findings for relevance
• Connecting theory with practice
• Avoiding plagiarism and citation tools
• Case Study: Using literature review to inform STEM curriculum improvement

Module 4: Research Design and Methodology

• Qualitative vs. quantitative approaches
• Mixed-method research design
• Tools for data collection (surveys, interviews)
• Sampling strategies
• Timeline and resource planning
• Case Study: Designing an action plan to improve reading comprehension

Module 5: Data Collection Techniques

• Surveys, focus groups, interviews
• Observation protocols
• Student performance data
• Technology tools for data gathering
• Ensuring reliability and validity
• Case Study: Using classroom observations to improve student behavior

Module 6: Data Analysis and Interpretation

• Coding qualitative data
• Descriptive statistics for school use
• Interpreting trends and patterns
• Linking analysis to research questions
• Visualizing data (charts, graphs)
• Case Study: Analyzing math scores after teacher training

Module 7: Implementing Action Plans

• Timeline and milestone setting
• Resource allocation
• Roles and responsibilities
• Risk assessment
• Mid-course corrections
• Case Study: Implementation of a peer tutoring program

Module 8: Monitoring and Evaluation

• Formative and summative evaluation
• Creating rubrics and benchmarks
• Reflecting on progress
• Stakeholder feedback
• Continuous improvement cycles
• Case Study: Evaluating the success of a school-wide reading campaign

Module 9: Reflective Practice in Action Research

• Role of reflection in professional growth
• Reflective journals and logs
• Structured group reflection methods
• Linking reflection to teaching improvement
• Encouraging a reflective culture
• Case Study: Teachers using reflection to redesign lesson plans

Module 10: Collaborative Action Research

• Benefits of team-based inquiry
• Team dynamics and facilitation skills
• Setting group norms
• Sharing roles and responsibilities
• Overcoming collaboration challenges
• Case Study: Teacher teams improving classroom management together

Module 11: Action Research and Educational Leadership

• Leadership theories in school reform
• Role of principals in research culture
• Decision-making based on data
• Building teacher leadership
• Aligning action research with school vision
• Case Study: A principal leading instructional change through research

Module 12: Sustaining School Improvement through Action Research

• Building long-term goals
• Institutionalizing action research
• Linking results to policies
• Building partnerships
• Securing funding and support
• Case Study: Sustained literacy improvement over five years

Module 13: Communicating and Publishing Findings

• Structuring an action research report
• Presenting to stakeholders and boards
• Writing for academic journals
• Creating visual presentations
• Using storytelling for impact
• Case Study: Publishing findings in a local education journal

Module 14: Integrating Action Research into Teacher Development

• Aligning research with appraisal systems
• Incorporating into CPD plans
• Mentoring new teachers through inquiry
• Using portfolios to track progress
• Creating a supportive environment
• Case Study: Using action research in induction programs

Module 15: Digital Tools for Action Research

• EdTech tools for data collection
• Using AI in qualitative analysis
• Collaborative platforms (Google, Miro, Padlet)
• Data visualization software
• Securing and storing digital research data
• Case Study: Conducting action research via an LMS platform

Training Methodology

• Interactive lectures using real-life examples and visuals
• Small group discussions to encourage peer learning and engagement
• Hands-on workshops to practice research tools and strategies
• Guided action research project by each participant
• Mentorship and feedback sessions with experienced trainers
• Presentation of findings and peer review at the end of the course

Register as a group from 3 participants for a Discount

Send us an email: info@datastatresearch.org or call +254724527104 

Certification

Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a globally- recognized certificate.

Tailor-Made Course

 We also offer tailor-made courses based on your needs.

Key Notes

a. The participant must be conversant with English.

b. Upon completion of training the participant will be issued with an Authorized Training Certificate

c. Course duration is flexible and the contents can be modified to fit any number of days.

d. The course fee includes facilitation training materials, 2 coffee breaks, buffet lunch and A Certificate upon successful completion of Training.

e. One-year post-training support Consultation and Coaching provided after the course.

f. Payment should be done at least a week before commence of the training, to DATASTAT CONSULTANCY LD account, as indicated in the invoice so as to enable us prepare better for you.