Question+2

What should I know about drafting a question?

Megan Nelson When drafting an action research question, teachers must keep in mind that they are conducting the research in their classrooms. Since the research occurs in the classroom, teachers must identify a problem that has significance to the teaching and learning occurring in the classroom environment. The problem may be on a personal level, but it has broader educational significance as well. After identifying the problem, teachers must conduct a review of the literature on the topic.

Elyce Rickerl

A good question must be significant (applicable to the particular classroom situation of the researcher), feasible (in terms of time, effort, and resources), and likely to lead to action (such as keeping or changing a strategy). Questions for action research should focus on your professional and ethical commitment to student learning. Examining an issue that truly matters to how you feel about student learning is key. The question should be something examines an issue that is truly applicable to your students. It should go more deeply than a simple "yes" or "no" answer. Action research questions must analyze the relationships between teacher strategies and their impact on student learning and student success. Many times, an action research question begins as a possible solution to an existing problem that hinders the teacher in his or her classroom. - Elyce Rickerl