Complete, evaluate and present an action research project. 5000 words, Weighting 100% (LO 1-5)

Appended evidence as appropriate to your teaching and subject area, 0% weighting,

Candidates must hold IELTS 6 or equivalent.

Available as e-books at Staffordshire University

Bell, J. (2010) Doing Your Research Project (5th Edition), Maidenhead, Open University Press Staffordshire University Library]

Cohen, L. Manion, L and Morrison, K. (2007) Research Methods in Education(6th edition), London: UK Staffordshire University Library]

Blackboard, on-line video/voice communication

This module places the learner at the heart of practice based research by carrying out action research in an area of their professional practice. The learning strategy for this module requires students to commit 300 learning hours (including assessment). This will include 20 hours of teacher/student support and might include an observation of practice and 280 hours of independent and self directed study.

There will be an initial session (online and/or face to face) to introduce the key aspects of the module content, including a summary of the blended learning material, the type of formative feedback available both through Blackboard and the Module Tutor. The nature of the summative assessment will also be examined. There will be additional tutorial support available, for students to address queries regarding the module content and to clarify any issues arising from the coursework assignment. Students are expected to regularly engage with the blended learning material on Blackboard. This will include reading the material, undertaking additional research and formative exercises to reinforce the learning.

Following the initial session two other sessions (online or face to face) will be held to discuss the module further. A further discussion will be held between the tutor/student to discuss the presentation of the action research findings and report. Strategies within these sessions will include:

- Researching literature relating to the purpose and key features of action research.
- Ethical, political and confidentiality considerations.
- Personal focus for action research project
- Evaluating action research
- Sharing findings and analysis with peers/tutors

The aim of this module is to enable learners to understand the nature and purpose of action research; therefore the content will include:
- Concepts of action research
- Research approaches
- Methods of data collection
- What is meant by analysis and evaluation in relation to action research
- Methods of implementation
- Presenting and recording action research