Action Research in Workplace Education : A Handbook for Literacy Instructors

Abstract

Based on a research project that sought to train instructors to conduct action research in a real-life context, this handbook was created to help literacy instructors to use action research in workplace education programs. The handbook is organized in three parts. The first part describes action research as a type of practice-based research. It outlines two models that can be used in conducting an action research project and then discusses the major steps of identifying a problem, collecting and analyzing data, and implementing an action strategy. The second part of the handbook describes eight action research projects, written up as case studies. These projects were conducted by practitioner-researchers and included topics such as increasing learner motivation, adapting teaching styles, and enhancing learning with the Internet. The case studies illustrate the actual process used in conducting action research and provide examples for critical reflection on findings that were used to solve common workplace literacy program problems. The third part of the handbook contains support information needed to carry out action research projects. (Contains an annotated bibliography of 21 references on action research and a set of exercises that match the steps in conducting an action research project.)