Explain the ten descriptors that can help give action research a methodological focus

What will be an ideal response?

1. Action research is systematic. It is a planned, methodical observation related to one's study focus. It is not less formal that other types of research.
2. You do not start with an answer. Researchers must begin the study as an unbiased observer.
3. An action research study does not have to be complicated or elaborate to be rigorous or effective. Too much detail can be confusing and too complex, detracting from what is actually sought in the research.
4. You must plan your study adequately before you begin to collect data. You must have a clear plan before you begin collecting data.
5. Action research projects vary in length. The length of the study is determined based on your questions, the nature of inquiry, the research setting, and any formal parameters to your study and data collections.
6. Observations should be regular, but they do not necessarily have to be long. The less experience a researcher has, the shorter the periods of time should be when undertaking observations in the field.
7. Action research projects exist on a continuum from simple and informal to detailed and formal. Some studies will be short, deliberate, and simple while others are long and more complicated.
8. Action research is sometimes grounded in theory. Linking research to existing theory is a requirement of any good study.
9. Action research is not necessarily quantitative. The goal of action research is to uncover problems and identify possible solutions.
10. The results of quantitative research projects are limited. Most action studies are tailored to a particular group or organization, and findings may not be generalizable to even a very similar group.