Azodi, Borel, and Martin

Candidate Perceptions of a Collaborative Framework Scaffold for Action Research Development

Donna Azodi, Daryl Ann Borel & Gary Martin, Lamar University, Beaumont, TX, USA.

Abstract:

This study examined the perceptions of online Masters of Education students regarding the usefulness of collaborative framework structures implemented during a one-year timeframe to scaffold development of an action research project and interim action research report. The research population in a regional university in southeast Texas targeted for this study was 888 graduate students who participated in the Practicum/Internship for Supervision course during the Spring 2015, Summer 2015 and Fall 2015 semesters. Of the 888 students, 433 respondents completed the questionnaire for a response rate of 49.2%. This study found that an online action research project should employ guidance to assist students in accomplishing the task and learning from the activity. From the questionnaire, students perceived that the following supports were most helpful: the Action Research Template, the EDLD 5301(Action Research) course content, Synchronous web conferences, and the LibGuide content. Students indicated the multiple supports provided within the action research process made the completion what many considered a challenging endeavor possible.

Key words: Action research; Inquiry learning; Learner Guidance; Instructional Support; Principal Preparation