Action research in the classroom

Leading Zumba at -50 on an ice stage

In my work life, I am not heavily involved in any form of research. However, I have been reflecting on my time as an adult educator facilitating Adult Basic Education. There have been many times when action research has been used as project-based learning.  The following is one example of action research as a class project.

I was the adult educator in a small northern community, (population 900) that was quite affected by addictions.  This community had the opportunity to become quite prosperous but was having challenges hiring local people to take on survey and camp positions that would benefit the community.  The Chief of the community saw the Adult Basic Education program as a possible solution.  He came to the classroom and spoke to the learners about taking on a project.  The project would be to work with the community through interviews, attending public band and wellness meetings and having group discussions within the classroom to come up with recommendations for a wellness plan.  Learners would gain knowledge in English, life skills and social studies through this process and benefit their community by pulling together a community wellness plan based on community input. Learners would facilitate the process with guidance from the Chief and myself.

Thier first task was to go to a Band meeting and raise the idea with community members.  If the community was interested learners would arrange to interview each of the interested residents on their concerns about the community and potential solutions using a tool designed by the learners with input from the Chief and myself. Learners would also attend Community Education Council, Interagency and special meetings on wellness and discuss the project and receive feedback.  This project was an exciting opportunity for ABE learners.

Learners began the project with excitement.  They saw this as a way to meet the requirements of the courses and help themselves and their community.  Addictions were not just a general community problem; each learner in the ABE classroom also was dealing with addiction issues with varying results.

Learners did the research, compiled the qualitative data from the interviews, feedback at the meetings and provided the Chief with recommendations for a community wellness plan. Sadly, the wellness plan was never implemented because a new Chief was elected shortly after completion.  However, it was a wonderful learning experience for all involved and a chance to practice action research as a learning opportunity.