Lesson Introduction

You have started working on your action research project in accordance with our model of action research since last class. Now, take a look of the model again, you will find that you are now on the first sub-step of the second step of the action research – Literature Review.

 

 

 

Review of Literature

The action research process is founded on the gathering of evidence on which to make informed rather than intuitive judgment and decision (Water-Adams, 2006). Although it is not always necessary to go through data analysis and data collection to diagnose the problem, the Review of Literature is a necessary step. In reality, it is quite often that a researcher identifies the problem through review of the literature or informal discussions with subjects and colleagues; therefore, in this class we will not require you to complete step 2.2 Data Collection and 2.3 Data Analysis, but step 2.1 Literature Review. Of course, you are welcome to do add them to your research, if you find them necessary for your project.

 

All research requires researchers to conduct a review of the literature, define research questions and analytic strategies, use formal data collection protocols or instruments, and write out good research reports (Yin, 2006). The more one knows about the area of focus, the more precise will the action research be conducted. Therefore, a good review of the literature is important and necessary. It will help you to 1) become familiar with other studies that have done on the area of your focus, 2) develop your action plan by utilizing the finding of others, and 3) apply the research findings through the lens of others’ experience.