Action Research for Improving Educational Practice: A Step-by-Step Guide

by Valsa Koshy

Whether you are a busy teacher doing research in your classroom, an undergraduate starting your research project, or a graduate student writing up your dissertation, this step-by-step guide takes you through every stage involved in carrying out action research. This book draws on Valsa Koshy s extensive experience of supervising researchers at all levels, and includes examples of action research carried out by practitioners across a range of topics and age groups. Case studies include UK and international examples, allowing you to reflect on multiple perspectives of action research in education.

Genres: Education

176 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2005

About the author

Valsa Koshy is a distinguished educator and researcher in mathematics education, with a career spanning several decades across teaching, advisory, and academic roles. Born in Kerala, South India, she earned degrees in Chemistry and Physics before moving to the UK in 1969. After 11 years teaching in primary schools, she joined the Inner London Education Authority as a mathematics advisor, supporting teachers across London. Her academic career began in 1988, and since 1996 she has worked at Brunel University, where she is Professor of Education and Director of the Brunel Able Children’s Education (BACE) Centre. Her work integrates professional development, curriculum innovation, and inclusive approaches to talent development. She has led numerous nationally funded research projects on mathematics learning, gifted education, and urban education. Koshy is especially noted for promoting Action Research and Design Research methodologies to make research accessible to practitioners. She supervises doctoral students from the UK and abroad and has delivered over 30 keynote addresses internationally. Her work continues to influence policy and practice in recognising and nurturing potential in all learners, particularly in underserved communities.

Reviews

[GTCS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rosa read this book and gave it 5 stars. Ideal for all teachers this book draws on Valsha's experience of supervising researchers at all levels, and then uses examples of action research used by practitioners.

It answers 3 basic questions:
- what is action research?
- when is it appropriate to do it?
- how do I go about it?

The book demystifies action research, removing the idea that this is just an area for university academics, but that actual practitioners can take part in action research from a small level or right through to doctoral level.

All teachers can take part in action research, specifically, chartered teachers are asked to take part in action enquiry/research as part of their postgraduate qualifications and part of showing that they meet the Standard. But it’s not just distinct for them, the book applies equally to teachers working in schools and in learning communities who perhaps just want to look at their own school and practice.

Rosa Murray is our Professional Officer (Chartered Teachers). Look out for podcasts of book reviews coming soon.

[Nicole Rave · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book, the clearest I have read to help me structure and write my action research.