Assignment: Methodology: Collecting and Analyzing Data
The next two parts of your Action Research Project essay center on methodology. For Part F, you focus on what data you collected, why you chose them, and the process you followed while collecting and analyzing your data. Part of that process includes the collaboration that occurred as you worked through your methodology section. Part G asks you to focus on analyzing data and using data graphic representations to determine if the data solves your dilemma, answers your research question(s), and supports findings from the literature. Remember, sometimes the findings reveal something else.
For this Assignment, you will add Part F: Methodology: Collecting Data and Part G: Methodology: Analyzing and Graphing Data Using Triangulation to your Action Research Project essay.
To prepare
Think about the data you collected, why you chose those particular data, and your data collection processes, including how you used collaboration in your process(es).
After analyzing your data, create a visual representation of the analysis of the data. This can be in the form of graphs, tables, and/or charts. Consider using technology tools such as Excel, SmartArt, or Visio to create the data visuals. What do the data reveal about teacher practice and student learning?
Add the following parts to your Action Research Project essay document:
Part F: Methodology: Collecting Data ( 2 pages)
Respond to the following:
What data did you collect, and which pre-approved data collection tools did you use?
Why did you choose these particular data collection tools? Provide a rationale for their use.
What process or steps did you take in collecting your data? Describe these steps in detail.
Was the data you collected formative, summative, or both?
How did collaboration with colleagues in designing and/or implementing your data processes/tools impact your research? For example, what strategies did the collaborative stakeholders share that you used? What ideas did they share to better engage and/or motivate students? In what areas did they provide support in helping your instruction improve? How did the collaboration bring new insights, information, and ideas to helping you solve your dilemma and to improving your teaching and student learning?
How did the development of the timeline contribute to the overall success of this part of the implementation phase?
Part G: Methodology: Analyzing and Graphing Data Using Triangulation (2 pages)
Respond to the following:
How did you use the triangulation process to analyze the multiple pieces of data?
How did the visual representations assist in analyzing the data?
What did the data reveal?
Did the data help you answer your research question(s)? Why or why not?
What did the data reveal about teacher practice and student learning?
How did your analysis compare to the research findings from your literature review? Do the results of your analysis support your literature review? In what ways? Or, why not? What does this mean to you in your specific educational setting?