Action Research: Ethical and Methodological Considerations

This module introduces action research as a practice-oriented approach to inquiry conducted by practitioners in their own settings to support improvement and localized change. It also explains how action research differs from traditional research, program evaluation, case study methods, and related participatory approaches.

Recommended Use: Required
ID (Language): 22594 (English)
Author(s): Barbara Packer, EdD - Nova Southeastern University ; Dana Mills, PhD - Nova Southeastern University

This module explains how action research unfolds through flexible cycles of planning, acting, observing, and reflecting. Learners also examine how research questions emerge from practice and how ethics, power, relationships, consent, and confidentiality shape action research in real-world settings.

Recommended Use: Required
ID (Language): 22595 (English)
Author(s): Barbara Packer, EdD - Nova Southeastern University ; Dana Mills, PhD - Nova Southeastern University

This module guides learners from noticing a practical problem to developing a clear, evidence-based problem statement and measurable research objectives. It emphasizes problem identification, stakeholder alignment, supporting evidence, SMART objectives, and the connection between research purpose and action planning.

Recommended Use: Required
ID (Language): 22596 (English)
Author(s): Barbara Packer, EdD - Nova Southeastern University ; Dana Mills, PhD - Nova Southeastern University

This module helps learners use existing research, theory, context, and prior studies to develop an action research plan. It addresses participant and setting selection, ethical considerations, data collection design, and the iterative nature of action research planning.

Recommended Use: Required
ID (Language): 22597 (English)
Author(s): Barbara Packer, EdD - Nova Southeastern University ; Dana Mills, PhD - Nova Southeastern University

This module introduces the role of the IRB in action research and explains when IRB review may be required. Learners explore common tensions between action research and IRB expectations, strategies for preparing applications, and the importance of viewing IRB review as an ongoing ethical process.

Recommended Use: Required
ID (Language): 22598 (English)
Author(s): Barbara Packer, EdD - Nova Southeastern University ; Dana Mills, PhD - Nova Southeastern University

This module focuses on what counts as data in action research and how data collection and analysis occur alongside action and reflection. Learners explore common data sources, iterative analysis, rigor, trustworthiness, triangulation, member checking, reflexivity, and the use of data to guide next steps.

Recommended Use: Required
ID (Language): 22599 (English)
Author(s): Barbara Packer, EdD - Nova Southeastern University ; Dana Mills, PhD - Nova Southeastern University

This module addresses how action research results are presented in ways that are meaningful, trustworthy, and useful to others. It emphasizes transferability rather than broad generalizability, documenting unexpected outcomes, incorporating participant feedback, structuring reports by research cycle, and addressing ethics in reporting findings.

Recommended Use: Required
ID (Language): 22600 (English)
Author(s): Barbara Packer, EdD - Nova Southeastern University ; Dana Mills, PhD - Nova Southeastern University

This module focuses on communicating action research findings to support change beyond the study setting. Learners examine stakeholder presentations, policy briefs, professional development workshops, dashboards, practitioner publications, academic venues, and ethical dissemination practices that promote collaboration, accountability, and continued improvement.

Recommended Use: Required
ID (Language): 22601 (English)
Author(s): Barbara Packer, EdD - Nova Southeastern University ; Dana Mills, PhD - Nova Southeastern University