Writing an action research report

1. Writing anaction research report Chapter 9 Craig A. Mertler SAGE Publications, 2014 Action Research: Improving Schools and Empowering Educators (4/e)

2. Conventions of Academic Writing • When writing an action research report, follow style guide • Instructional manual providing authors with requirements for stylistic matter • Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA Manual) • Conventions of academic-style writing • Agreed-on procedures that help ensure readability and credibility of written research reports • Titles • Initial screening mechanism for those considering reading your work • Should clearly indicate what the study, report are about • Grab your readers’ attention

3. Conventions of Academic Writing • Person and voice • Written as objectively as possible • Typically use third-person pronouns (appears less subjective) • Qualitative research is exception to this rule • Active voice is more appropriate than passive voice • Tense • Typically written in past tense (study has already been conducted) • Some sections (description of current situation or problem; recommendations) written in present tense • Tentative vs. definitive statements • State definitively—methodological aspects of study; results • State tentatively—conclusions; implications

4. Conventions of Academic Writing • Clarity • Crucial aspect—should be written clearly enough for another person to read and to duplicate methodological steps • Use few words, simple terminology (when feasible) • Organize report in logical format; use headings and subheadings • Consistency • Be consistent throughout; use same acronyms, abbreviations, formatting • Simplicity of language • Reports should be written in simple, straightforward style • Avoid overuse of adjectives, adverbs • Keep your message short and simple

5. Conventions of Academic Writing • Conventions of format • Generic outline for research reports: • Introduction • Review of related literature • Methodology • Results • Conclusions and recommendations • References • Length of entire report will differ with purpose (e.g., thesis, journal article, conference presentation)

6. Conventions of Academic Writing • Conventions of format • Sections of action research reports may not be labeled as such; may look more like the following: • Introduction • Review of related literature/information • Description of innovation/intervention • Data collection • Data analysis and interpretation • Conclusions • Reflection and action plan

7. Ethics and writing • When writing, should strive to protect rights and welfare of research participants (APA) • Ensure data and results are not falsified or fabricated • Protect confidentiality • Limit descriptions • Remove explanations of non-essential characteristics • Use pseudonyms • Avoid bias • “Gender” versus “sex” • Avoid labels as nouns • Use person-first language

8. Guidelines for Writing • Practical guidelines for writing • Establish a writing routine • Try to write at the same time every day • Write as if you are talking to a friend • Begin with an outline and organize your thoughts accordingly • Don’t worry (initially) about spelling, grammar, or how report reads • Writing a first draft is the first step in the writing process • Develop a realistic writing schedule and timeline

9. Action research checklist 9 Action Research Checklist 9: Writing an Action Research Report ☐ Develop a plan for writing a report of your action research study. ☐ Identify your intended audience (e.g., other educators, administrators, school board members, etc.). ☐ Identify a possible outlet for your report (e.g., journal, newsletter, etc.). ☐ Develop an outline of the major headings and subheadings of your report. ☐ Establish a writing routine that works for you; try to “carve out” some common time each day to write. ☐ Once you’ve done this, develop a writing schedule, or timeline, to keep you focused on achieving your goal of a complete action research report. ☐ Remember to write in somewhat of a conversational style, as if you are talking to a friend or colleague. ☐ As you write, focus on simply filling in the sections of your original outline. ☐ Find someone to serve as an editor or proofreader who can give you honest feedback on your writing. ☐ Revise your report, as appropriate. ☐ Submit your manuscript for possible publication!