Introduction to Educational Research
SAGE Journal Articles
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Journal Article 1: Whitehead, J. (2009). Generating living theory and understanding in action research studies. Action Research, 7, 85–99.
Abstract: The paper explains how individuals can generate their living theories from action research as explanations for their educational influences in learning. The epistemological significance of these explanations is explored in terms of the energy and values that are expressed in explanatory principles of learning in enquiries of the kind, `How do I improve what I am doing?'. Limitations in the expression of the meanings of these explanatory principles through words on pages of printed text are overcome from a perspective of inclusionality and in multi-media explanations that focus on the embodied knowledges of action researchers. These explanations can be accessed through the live URLs provided in the article. Evidence that the explanations of educational influences in learning from Whitehead's educational research programme have been used by others is provided from the masters and doctoral degrees of other living theory action researchers.
Journal Article 2: Brydon-Miller, M., Greenwood, D., & Maguire, P. (2003). Why action research? Action Research, 1, 9–28.
Abstract: Members of the editorial board of Action Research responded to the question, `Why action research?' Based on their responses and the authors' own experiences as action researchers, this article examines common themes and commitments among action researchers as well as exploring areas of disagreement and important avenues for future exploration. We also use this opportunity to welcome readers of this new journal and to introduce them to members of the editorial board.
Journal Article 3: Kane, R. G., & Chimwayange, C. (2014). Teacher action research and student voice: Making sense of learning in secondary school. Action Research, 12, 52–77.
Abstract: The Making Sense of Learning project began with the premise that for teachers to understand the ways in which their practice influences student learning, they need to invite and listen to students’ accounts of their learning experiences. Initiated by classroom teachers, supported by a university researcher, and informed by student voice, this teacher action research involved the empirical-reflective (self-) study by teachers of their practice as interpreted and critiqued by their students and themselves. This article explores how researchers challenge teachers to move beyond taken for granted conceptions of teaching, learning, and roles of students, to engage in learning-centered dialog with their students and through this, transform classroom practice. Supported by the researchers, teachers and students gain a sense of empowerment as they deepen their relationships and negotiate new roles as partners and coresearchers making sense of learning in their classrooms. Teachers and students come to situated understandings of the complexity of teaching and learning that reveal transformative and emancipatory outcomes.
Journal Article 4: Cumming, T. M ., Strnadov T I., & Singh, S. (2014). iPads as instructional tools to enhance learning opportunities for students with developmental disabilities: An action research project. Action Research, 12, 151–176.
Abstract: This study details an action research project completed by an Information and Communications Technology Integration Coordinator and a team of five teachers, supported by the university partners as consultants. The project focused on the process and outcomes of the introduction of iPad technology to support students with developmental disabilities at a private high school in Sydney. The data were analyzed using the inductive content analysis approach. This paper describes the experience, including teacher and student perceptions of iPad implementation. Recommendations for implementation and further study are also discussed.