Drawn to Science Education: Studying Science Teaching and Learning through Drawings

Action Research Examples in Education

Teachers interested in studying their own teaching or classroom context often ask for action research examples in education to give them an idea of what types of research can be done.

There are numerous approaches, data collection options, and ways to analyze data. We'll focus on two examples that use our research methodology and drawings as the primary data source. Note that your research question(s) will determine the best source of data. For the examples below, drawings are appropriate, especially when combined with other sources of data.

The examples below highlight two ways drawings might be used in action research. Understand that finding the right topic and research question(s) can be challenging. Before you begin planning your study, take the time think about your topic and question. You will be rewarded with more satisfying and useful research findings.

Action Research in an ESL Classroom:
An example of using drawings to understand second language learners' prior learning experiences. The example also includes the use of student writing and interviewing to support the research.

Action Research about Science Experiences:
In this example of action research, drawings, along with other data sources, are used to study students' experiences with science outside of the classroom context.

Sample Action Research Resources:
Links to online resources that provide numerous examples of action research.