Elements of Action Research

Elements - Significant Results

Project Results

This section provides the answer to your research question. The following prompts can help you explain the finding of your Action Research Project. Answer the questions that are relevant to your project as a way to focus your ideas.

  • How shall I describe the results of my research project?
  • How well did my students measure up to the goal or standard?
  • Did the methods remedy the problem in terms of changes in knowledge, abilities, attitudes, values (values not mentioned as part of student FLO), and commitment of students or of myself?

Interpretation of the Results

Consider causal vs. correlative relationships:

  • Action research may reveal correlation between variables, but it will often not establish a cause and effect relationship.
  • Controlled experiments are needed to convince sophisticated readers of a cause and effect relationship between variables.
  • You may choose to make a case for cause and effect based on your professional judgment. If so, explain the factors informing your judgment.

When correlation is claimed, consider and describe explanations other than cause/effect (confounding variables).

  • What perceived impact did the innovation have in terms of changes in knowledge, abilities, attitudes, values and commitment of students or of myself?
  • Were the results what I expected?