Current discussion of action theory is premised on the fact that many counselors may avoid action approaches because of previous misunderstandings. Article addresses 12 misunderstandings. Overall, action theory is presented as highly suitable for understanding human behavior and for counseling as it is based on a wide spectrum of research as well…

Explains the contribution narrative makes to counselors' understanding of human action. By viewing action from a narrative perspective, it extends the construct of action beyond the realm of goal-directed behavior into the realm of language. States counselors must pay attention to the ways language can affect therapeutic practices. (JDM)

A study examined the impact of assuming the role of action researcher in one's own classroom as an example of inquiry-oriented, professional staff development. The study was a part of a comprehensive, longitudinal investigation of the impact of certain professional development experiences on K-12 classroom teachers. A review of the literature and…

The current challenges confronting career counselors require increased discourse regarding career counseling models. As career counselors construct contemporary intervention models, they will need to engage in social action research to demonstrate accountability and to document that their services are effective. Career counselors can embrace these…

Examines the original Hawthorne relay-assembly research. Asserts the "Hawthorne misunderstanding" is common in criminology and criminal justice because authors have failed to properly attribute the explanation of increased work output to the Hawthorne effect. Describes the Hawthorne effect, how it is produced, and ways to achieve the…

This introductory article discusses the benefits of participatory action research (PAR), including the empowerment of participants in research and the research process, the difficulties PAR presents, and summarizes following articles in a special series on the facets of PAR. (CR)

This article presents a rationale for incorporating elements of participatory research approaches into intervention research intended to improve practice. After an overview of the research-to-practice problem, it illustrates how the incorporation of participatory research approaches applied to various decision points can enhance the construction…

This article summarizes teacher action research for the teaching of subjective culture in the foreign language classroom. It begins with a literature review, followed by a description of Milton J. Bennett's Developmental Model of Intercultural Sensitivity (Bennett, 1993), the theoretical paradigm upon which classroom activities and experiments…

This paper reviews methods for conducting and reporting teacher research. Through three cases, the paper explores common and diverse methods employed in classroom inquiry. The paper recounts the history of teacher research and discusses common methodological characteristics as well as context-specific features of teacher research. The first case…

This paper presents a historical overview of the use of action research in education and describes the basic assumptions and expectations that continue to characterize collaborative research projects today. Action research was initiated in the 1930's by Kurt Lewin and adapted by educators in the 1940's. Interest in action research declined between…

The author describes an action research model of collaboration between higher education and school teachers that shows how professionals with different perspectives learn through complex, long-term projects. (JOW)

The literature on school vandalism is reviewed, emphasizing strategies found successful in reducing school vandalism. It is interpreted in terms of three ideological orientations: conservative, liberal, and radical. Action research approach, which continually assesses strategy effects on a specific school system, is recommended for future…

Review of evidence from over 90 action research projects finds the common assertion that Asian students prefer passive learning and resist teaching innovations is not correct. Argues that the motivation displayed by Asian students is not an extrinsic form of motivation, which depresses intrinsic motivation, and that the high levels of achievement…

This article discusses challenges in using participatory action research (PAR) in the evaluation of programs that provide services and supports to people with severe disabilities. Challenges include the need for modification of the model, time constraints, issues around power and position, and inclusion of individuals with severe disabilities.…

This book proposes that action research can give higher education professional development a theoretical framework by integrating educational research and teaching in higher education. The book offers an alternative paradigm in higher education research and development and explains the differences between the traditional and alternative paradigms…