Other collaborative efforts might be pursued with public and private agencies, corporations, and departments of education. When planning to do action-oriented research, school counselors should consider adequate funding to complete the research project. Local school budgets and district funds often need to be augmented with additional funding from state and federal grants, professional association grants, or public and private contributions. A variety of technological resources are available to assist school counselors in the research process. Computerization of data bases, record keeping, and data analysis have improved research capabilities enhancing the research process.
Consultants are available to assist during any step of the research process.
Nearby colleges and universities provide computerized data base searches, consultants, and a wide variety of computer hardware and software. There are numerous benefits to be gained by the school counselor who chooses to do action-oriented research. Program evaluation and planning are facilitated through the use of measurable student outcomes obtained through action-oriented research. Collaborative research efforts are made possible by data gained through action-oriented research. Practical action-oriented research is the basis for proactive public relations for school counselors and school counseling.