Teaching and Research

We live in a modern world that is in constant change and its people change with it. Everyday we see new technological advances in an ever changing society. As teachers, we must recognize that we will forever be in a state of learning. Educational research is a fundamental tool in the professional development of English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers. With research teachers are able to reflect on the best teaching practices in order to identify the most effective ways to maintain a positive learning environment. Teachers spend the most time with the children in the classroom which means they have first hand experiences on any challenges that might come up in the classroom. These problems inherently need solutions and research is the way to generate evidence based strategies to support students with their strengths and weaknesses. 

There are many reasons for which teachers can investigate. During my practicum experience I observed various reasons for which to conduct an investigation. Research and investigation does not limit itself to formal investigations but also informal. Examples of investigations are getting to know the students, their learning styles, strengths and weaknesses. This allows for the teacher to create meaningful learning experiences that the students can feel motivated to complete and enjoy. There is also opportunity for teachers to improve their teaching practices. During my practicum I was teaching my second graders about nouns and its pluralization. I gave them homework and noticed that some of them did not perform to expectations. Here I took action and decided to re-teach upon reflecting that maybe I didn't give them clear instruction or spent enough time teaching them. This way reflects upon effective teaching strategies and how to perform better as a teacher for my students. In summary, there can be many reasons for research in teaching, the purpose of research is to search for a solution to a problem which with this evolving society and in classroom environments there will always be room to improve. Finally, I'd like to highlight that research should always be authentic and culturally responsive to the environment that teachers or students are in. Which is why some of the research that is already out there is not always applicable. Some of the literature that is already out there may sometimes fail to reflect the linguistic, cultural, and social realities of students. Therefore, research enables teachers to adapt their content and methods to create more meaningful learning experiences.

As previously mentioned, research requires for there to be a problem or a questions. Afterwards comes the collection of data through authentic strategies which can include interviews, activities, student interviews, etc. Implementing a possible solution based on the data collected and finally for the researcher to analyze and reflect on the results of that research process. Ultimately publishing those findings and sharing the impacts that it may have on teaching practices.

Educational research does not come without its challenges. As teacher we have a profound problem with lack of time and over work. We are required to do planning, grading, organize events, manage the classroom and support the community all the while teaching various classess. This makes it so the time we have to research is too little. Although we are always in a constant state of informal research were we reflect on our teaching practices after every lesson. 

When it comes to research, researchers must always have in mind the ethical considerations in educational research. These include keeping confidentiality, everything to be conducted must be justified and up to date, have administrative documents like consent readily available and respect those. And most of all be committed to work in a respectful and responsible manner committed to improving the education of those in our community. Lastly I’d like to highlight the importance of being completely truthful for authentic results that reflect honest investigative practices.

In conclusion, educational research, whether formal or informal, is essential in the formation and daily practice of an ESL teacher. It helps us grow, better support our students, and promote a teaching environment that is ethical, meaningful, and effective. Research is not a luxury; it is a necessity for every educator who is committed to their students and their own professional growth.