Introduction to Action Research & Innovation: quick revision, 12 bites

Action Research: Action + Research + Reflection

Do research while you take action.

Action research seeks **transformative change** by doing two things at once — taking action and doing research — joined together by **critical reflection**.

Takeaway. Action and research are not separate steps; critical reflection binds them into one cycle.

What Exactly Is Action Research?

One term, three core ideas.

Takeaway. Action research is both a philosophy and a methodology — not just a technique.

Who Coined the Term?

One name started it all.

The term **"action research"** was first coined by **Kurt Lewin**.

Takeaway. Kurt Lewin is the originator of the term action research.

Lewin's Principles Still Stand Today

Old principles, still in use.

The basic principles of action research described by **Lewin** are still in use to this day.

Takeaway. Lewin's foundational principles remain the backbone of action research practice.

Who Uses Action Research? Teachers.

Teachers research their own classroom.

Takeaway. In education, action research is practitioner-led — the teacher is the researcher.

Knowledge You Can Actually Use

Research that applies right here.

Action research is more interested in gaining knowledge that can be **directly applied** to one's own teaching context.

Takeaway. The value of action research lies in immediate, context-specific applicability — not general theory alone.

Action Research vs Traditional Research

Same word, different purpose.

Takeaway. Action research is context-bound and change-oriented; traditional research is broader and theory-oriented.

The Core Cycle of Action Research

Act, study, reflect — repeat.

Takeaway. Action and research run simultaneously, held together by critical reflection.

Don't Treat Action and Research as Separate

Two halves, one process.

Takeaway. The simultaneity of action and research is the defining feature, not a detail.

Exam-Ready Facts to Remember

Three facts, full marks.

Takeaway. These three points cover most introductory exam questions on this topic.

Remember It as A-R-R

Three letters, one method.

**A-R-R** → **A**ction + **R**esearch + **R**eflection. The three pillars of action research.

Takeaway. A-R-R captures the entire essence of action research in one acronym.

Action Research in a Real Classroom

A teacher tries, studies, improves.

Takeaway. Action research turns everyday teaching into a cycle of improvement.