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38 According to Nunan 1992: 3 research is systematic process of inquiry
consisting of three elements: 1 a question, problem, or hypothesis, 2 data, 3 analysis and interpretation data. While Nunan Mils 1992:6 mention four steps
processes in action research: a.
Identify an area of focus b.
Collect data c.
Analyze and interpret data d.
Develop an action plan From the entire definitions above it can be concluded that action research is a
systematic process which is contains from problem, collect the data, analyze and interpret data in order to carry out the solution to make improvement of the
students’ knowledge. In this research, the classroom action research is conducted to solve the
problems in the English class. The purposes of the research are to improve the students’ vocabulary acquisition and to improve the situations in the English class.
2. Characteristics of Action Research
According to Burns 1999: 30 there are some characteristics of action research which are taken from some experts’ definitions as follows:
a. Action research is contextual, small-scale and localized. It identifies investigates problems within a specific situation.
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39 b. It is evaluating and reflective as it aims to bring about change and
improvement in practice. c. It is participator as it provides for collaborative investigation by teams of
colleagues, practitioners and researchers. d. Changes in practice are based on the collection of information or data
which provides the impetus for changes. While Cohen Manion in Nunan say that the characteristics of action research
is first and foremost situational, being concerned with identification and solution problems in a specific context and the aim of action research is to improve the
current state of affairs within educational context in which the research is being carried out 1998: 18.
3. Stages of Action Research
The stages of action research include identifying the problem, planning, action, observation and reflection. They are as follows:
a. Identifying the problem
The researcher identifies the problem to get a research focus area, such as the difficulties faced by the students when memorizing vocabulary. Results of the
identification are then used to limit the focus of the study. b.
Planning
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40 The researcher prepare setting out the procedures, preparing lesson plans,
materials, media and instruments such as observation checklist, field-note, interview guide and specify some criteria of success.
c. Action
The researcher implementing the plan, implementing the teaching and learning process by using picture series based on the planning.
d. Observation
The researcher observing the application of the lesson plans, students’ activities in teaching and learning process.
e. Reflection
The researcher analyzes the collected data, determining whether the action is successful or unsuccessful. The result of this step will be the basic of the next
activity or cycle and also will answer the hypothesis that has been proposed by the writer before the action carried out.
C. Techniques of Collecting Data 1.
