Teachers working alone felt isolated and overwhelmed, while large teams encountered logistical difficulties. It can be a growing experience on an individual basis as well as getting to know other staff members better. It can also help the school climate in your building. Teachers frequently remarked on how professional they felt. Action research trusts teachers to investigate what works best in their own classrooms, and to make teaching decisions based on their findings.
Action research is necessary and vital to one's growth as a professional teacher.
Although a few adventurous teachers are willing to attempt classroom action research on their own, we find that participation is much greater when teachers are given extensive support, and this is best done through a district-wide action research initiative. Provide strong leadership from the school administration, coordinated through the staff development office. Seek the support of building principals, urging each school to recruit at least one research team. Encourage teachers to form research teams of two to five, focusing on a common question. Provide information to teams through workshops, credit-bearing classes, mentors, books, and other resources.