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4. Classroom Action Research
In this part, the researcher would discuss the definition, the aim, the characteristic and the model of Classroom Actio n Research.
a. The Definition of Classroom Action Research
Fraenkel and Wallen 2008 state that “action research is conducted by one or more individuals or groups for the purposes of solving a problem or obtaining
information in order to inform local practice” p. 589. Action research has essential method that is “trying out the ideas in practice as a means of
improvement and as a means of increasing knowledge about the curriculum, teaching, and learning” Kemmis McTaggart, 1982, p. 5. The aim of
Classroom Action Research CAR is to improve educational practice in the certain situation which is conducted by groups or participants for the purpose. The
result will be the improvement which occurs in the classroom.
b. The Principles of Action Research
McNiff and Whitehead 2002 state that action research can be conducted in several contexts, social and caring sciences, education, organization and other
related studies p. 15. Kemmis and McTaggart 1988, as cited by McNiff and Whitehead 2002, add that:
Action research is a form of collective self-reflecive enquiry undertaken by participants in social situations in order to improve the rationality and
justice of their own social or educational practices, as well as their understanding of these practices and the situations in which these practices
are carried out” p. 24.
23 Lewin 1946, as cited by Kemmis and McTaggart 1982, adds that the process
of the research begins with an observation of the circumstances and fact found in the circumstances p. 6. From the explanation, it can be concluded that to conduct
action research, the fact problems or practices in the particular situation that need attention are underlying the research. Thereafter, researchers take action to make
improvement.
c. The Advantages of Action Research
There are five advantages of action research Fraenkel Wallen, 2008, p. 596. Those are provided in the following advantages.
Action research is flexible. It can be conducted by any professional, in any type of school, at any grade level, and solving any kind of problem
occurred in the particular area. Action research can improve educational practice.
Teachers can practice their expertise in effective ways. Action research can help teachers identify problems systematically.
Action research can build up a small community of research-oriented individuals within the school itself.
d. The Model of Classroom Action Research
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