Action Research Cycles - Overview
PURPOSE:
The purpose of my Action Research is to prepare teachers for blended learning models. PROBLEM/SITUATION: As more schools across the country adopt blended learning models, the need for teachers who can successfully operate within these models increases. Unfortunately, many teachers, especially those new to the profession, are unfamiliar with the learning models and the technology that is integrated into the curriculum and school logistics. Without supports in place to assist with the technological and pedagogical needs, many teachers revert back to traditional methods that do not always reflect the school's blended learning practices. Problem 1: New teachers do not understand the associated learning technologies Problem 2: New teachers do not understand blended learning models Problem 3: New teachers are still struggling with traditional notions like classroom management Problem 4: Supports are not in place for teachers to experience shared learning RESEARCH QUESTION: How will the implementation of a digital curriculum designed with the learning model and relevant learning technologies in mind, impact the development of the staff within the professional development model? BACKGROUND RESEARCH: The resources that have helped me the most are Constructivist (Bruner), Constructivism and Instructional Design (Jonassen), Adult Learning (Rogers, Cross, Knowles), Situated Learning (Lave/Wenger), Blended Learning/PD (iNACOL, Clayton Christensen Institute, Bill and Melinda Gates, Department of Education), and personal data collection (VOISE). "The Constructivist idea forms the foundation of the curriculum creation while situated and adult theories of learning create a background for professional development" @Mr_Staley COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE: My community of practice is amongst teachers and administrative staff in one existing blended learning school and one that will be created in the near future. The community we serve is an at-risk, low-income neighborhood on Chicago’s West Side (the one proposed is located in a district with similar demographics and socio-economic status in Memphis, Tennessee). |
Problem
As more schools across the country adopt blended learning models the need for teachers who can successfully operate within these models increases. Unfortunately many teachers, especially those new to the profession, are unfamiliar with the learning models and the technology that is integrated into the curriculum and school logistics. Without supports in place to assist with the technological and pedagogical needs, many teachers revert back to traditional methods that do little to increase educational achievement. |