Course: Research Methods
Action Research Studies are a type of research conducted to solve real-world problems and lead to actionable change.
Understanding Action Research Studies
Imagine you’re a detective trying to solve a case. You gather clues, analyze them, form a theory, and then test it out. If your theory doesn’t solve the case, you start over until you find the answer. Action research works in a similar way. It’s a cycle of identifying a problem, planning a solution, implementing the solution, and then evaluating its effectiveness. If the solution isn’t effective, the cycle starts over.
Unlike traditional research, which often focuses on developing theories, action research emphasizes solving practical problems. It often involves the people affected by the issue in the research process. They’re not just subjects of research; they’re partners in creating change.
Action Research in Criminal Justice
In the field of criminal justice, action research might be used to tackle issues like community crime. A police department could partner with community members to identify problem areas, such as a local park where crime rates are high. They’d then develop and implement a plan—maybe installing more lighting in the park or organizing neighborhood watch groups.
Afterward, they’d evaluate the plan’s effect on crime rates. If it didn’t make a significant difference, they’d revisit the problem and brainstorm new solutions. The goal is to create a safer community, not just gather data about crime.
Action Research in Social Work
Social work often involves dealing with complex issues like child welfare or mental health. Here’s how action research might play out in a school setting. A school social worker may notice that many students are struggling with anxiety.
Working with teachers, parents, and the students themselves, the social worker could create a program to address this issue. This might include stress management workshops, mindfulness training, or creating ‘quiet zones’ for relaxation. The success of the program would be assessed through feedback from students, teachers, and parents, and modifications would be made as needed.
A Political Science Example
In political science, action research could be used to address low voter turnout. A group of political scientists might partner with community leaders to identify barriers to voting. This could be lack of transportation, work schedule conflicts, or lack of understanding about the voting process.
They could then implement solutions, such as organizing carpools to voting stations, advocating for voting leave from work, or running voter education programs. After the next election, they’d assess whether these measures increased voter turnout. If not, they’d return to the drawing board to develop new strategies.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, action research studies are all about taking action. They aren’t just about studying social issues—they’re about solving them. By involving those affected by the issue, they empower communities to create positive change.
Whether it’s reducing crime, improving mental health in schools, or increasing voter turnout, the goal is to make a real-world impact. It’s a reminder that research isn’t just an academic exercise; it’s a powerful tool for making our world a better place.