Students as Researchers:   A Framework for Using Action Research Principles to Improve Instruction

Many instructors teach courses that prepare students to do research individually or in teams. These instructors also supervise their students ’ research projects. Continuous and systematic use of action research principles can help instructors prepare for problems that may develop when students encounter unfamiliar issues at research sites due to their lack of knowledge or to their own assumptions about the sites. Students may also encounter unanticipated difficulties in team collaborations. Action research principles include planning how and what to teach, implementing activities, observing them, reflecting on their efficacy, and then making changes in instructional practices. While much thought is given to the contents, meaning, and philosophy of a specific course, considerably less effort may be expended to evaluate instruction and student learning during and after a course ends. This severely limits the scope of changes that can be made while the class is in progress and when planning for the next iteration of the course. I