Action Research Design Outline
What is the topic of your action research?
The topic of my action research is integrating technology into the 6th grade reading and language arts classroom. This is an important focus for me because technology is an integral part of today's world, and I want to explore how it can be used to enhance learning in the 6th grade language arts classroom seeing as how many districts now provide computers for each student.
What is the purpose of your study?
The purpose of my study is to intentionally embed digital tools and resources into the curriculum. My goal is to explore how various technologies such as Schoology, interactive apps, and collaborative platforms can be used to engage students, enhance their learning, and provide them with new ways to demonstrate their understanding.
What is your research question?
My research question is: In what ways does the integration of Schoology in the 6th grade reading and language arts curriculum impact students' ability to demonstrate proficiency in state-mandated ELA standards when given choices in how they present their learning? I want to understand how I can integrate technology in a way that allows students to use different methods such as written work, digital presentations, or multimedia projects to show what they’ve learned, while still meeting state standards.
What is your research design (Qualitative, Quantitative, or Mixed Methods)? Why did you choose this design?
I’ve chosen a mixed-methods design for my study. I believe that by combining both qualitative and quantitative data, I can gain a more complete understanding of the impact technology has on my students’ learning.
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Qualitative data will help me understand the experiences of both students and teachers with technology. For example, I’ll collect student feedback, teacher observations, and reflections on how digital tools are being used in the classroom.
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Quantitative data will allow me to measure student performance and achievement. I’ll track progress through assessments, quizzes, and performance on digital tasks to determine whether integrating technology helps improve learning outcomes.
What data will you collect?
For this study, I’ll collect both qualitative and quantitative data:
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Qualitative data:
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Student reflections or journals about their experiences with technology
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Teacher observations on how students are engaging with the technology tools
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Focus group or interview data with students to understand their perspectives on technology integration
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Quantitative data:
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Pre- and post-assessment scores (such as quizzes, tests, or performance tasks)
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Data from digital learning platforms (such as completion rates, quiz scores, or interaction with activities)
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Participation data (like how often students engage with technology in assignments)
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What types of measurement will you use?
To assess the effectiveness of technology integration, I’ll use a combination of formative and summative assessments:
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Formative assessments:
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Ongoing quizzes or short assignments that help track students’ progress in real time
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Performance on digital learning platforms or apps such as Schoology and Performance Matters
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Summative assessments:
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End-of-unit assessments or projects that blend traditional assessments (like written work) with digital components (like presentations or multimedia projects)
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Comparative data between pre- and post-assessment scores, including reading comprehension or writing skills.
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What is the focus of your lit review?
The focus of my literature review will be on the importance of integrating technology in the 6th grade English Language Arts classroom. I will explore several key areas:
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The role of technology in increasing student engagement and motivation: I’ll look at studies that show how interactive tools and technology can make learning more engaging, leading to better student outcomes.
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How technology allows for differentiated instruction: I plan to explore how digital tools can cater to different learning styles and help personalize instruction for each student.
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The impact of student choice on learning: I’ll investigate how giving students the autonomy to choose how they demonstrate their knowledge (such as through writing, video projects, or digital storytelling) impacts their learning outcomes.
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Aligning technology with state standards: I will research how integrating technology into lessons can still meet the required state standards and how digital tools can help students demonstrate proficiency in reading and writing.
