Action Research in the Classroom

Sr. Mary Ann Jacobs, Ed.D. is an Assistant Professor in the School of Education at Manhattan College in Riverdale, NY. She prepares education majors to become teachers for middle and high school students. Her research interests include STEM education, brain compatible instruction, and effective middle schools.Bruce S. Cooper is Professor Emeritus at Fordham University, Graduate School of Education. His interests have long been in private and religious schools, their growth, policies, and government support. A popular book of his is Home Schooling in Full View.

• PrefacePART I. UNDERSTANDING THE PROCESSChapter 1: Improving Teacher Preparation and PracticesChapter 2: Understanding Teachers and Improving Life in the ClassroomChapter 3: Principals’ Role in Supporting Research & Improving Practices for New TeachersPART II. SIX STEPS IN THE PROCESS OF L.E.A.D.E.R.Chapter 4: Building a Program for Teachers and Students: Six Steps to Becoming a Classroom L.E.A.D.E.R.Chapter 5: Looking at the ProblemChapter 6: Examining What’s KnownChapter 7: Acquiring New Knowledge through Action ResearchChapter 8: Devising Plans for School Improvement: Action Research in ActionChapter 9: Executing & Evaluating the PLAN: How to Start and Make It WorkChapter 10: Repeating the Steps as Needed: Helping Teachers Implement Change and Share FindingsPART III. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS OF ACTION RESEARCHChapter 11: Samples and Examples of Action ResearchChapter 12: RESEARCH on the RESEARCH: What Works in Action Research & What Pitfalls to AvoidTestimonialsAbout the Authors

Action Research in the Classroom: Helping Teachers Assess and Improve their Work clearly delineates the difference of research in education and action research conducted by educators in the classroom. The creation of the six-step process (L.E.A.D.E.R.) provides a foundational approach to conducting action research.  The anecdotal examples in the book are not only delightful but also provide insight into how easy and effective action research can be following L.E.A.D.E.R.  I believe Action Research in the Classroom: Helping Teachers Assess and Improve their Work should become part of the canon of texts that teacher aspirants should read and then keep on their desks as new and developing teachers.