EDCI 626--Action Research for Gifted Education
Qualitative research attempts to describe and interpret some human phenomenon and varies according to the research paradigm, methods, and assumptions. During this course, students identified and investigated a school-based problem related to gifted education by conducting an action research study in their local school. The major goal for this course is to provide an opportunity for students to apply inquiry, writing and research skills to a relevant issue or concern in gifted education. The final product for the course will be the development of a grant proposal, an article for publication in a professional journal, or a formal report to a local administrative body based on preliminary findings from individual projects.
Course Goals:
Participants in this course demonstrated their competency in the following areas:
1. Formulating an appropriate research question: Defining the Action Research Project.
2. Designing a manageable and appropriate methodology: Differentiate between qualitative and quantitative data collection, techniques, and KNOW when to select each.
3. Gathering data utilizing one or more formal qualitative methods.
4. Analyzing the results utilizing a qualitative methodology: Distinguish between Data Analysis and Data Interpretation.
5. Sharing findings in a constructive format appropriate to the study.
6. Identifying criteria for evaluating the quality of action research and practical inquiry
through response to articles, peer review of student work, and guided self-assessment.
Course Goals:
Participants in this course demonstrated their competency in the following areas:
1. Formulating an appropriate research question: Defining the Action Research Project.
2. Designing a manageable and appropriate methodology: Differentiate between qualitative and quantitative data collection, techniques, and KNOW when to select each.
3. Gathering data utilizing one or more formal qualitative methods.
4. Analyzing the results utilizing a qualitative methodology: Distinguish between Data Analysis and Data Interpretation.
5. Sharing findings in a constructive format appropriate to the study.
6. Identifying criteria for evaluating the quality of action research and practical inquiry
through response to articles, peer review of student work, and guided self-assessment.