Action study

Action Study is a method of research that involves active participation and intervention in a given situation to understand and improve it. It is a form of qualitative research that is often used in the fields of education, social sciences, and business.

Overview

Action Study, also known as Action Research, is a research methodology that involves the researcher actively participating in the situation being studied. This approach is often used in situations where traditional research methods may not be effective or appropriate. The goal of Action Study is to bring about change in the situation being studied while simultaneously gaining a deeper understanding of it.

History

The concept of Action Study was first introduced by Kurt Lewin, a social psychologist, in the 1940s. Lewin believed that the best way to understand a situation was to attempt to change it. This approach was revolutionary at the time and has since been adopted and adapted by researchers in various fields.

Methodology

The methodology of Action Study involves a cycle of planning, action, observation, and reflection. The researcher first identifies a problem or issue that needs to be addressed. They then develop a plan of action to address the issue. The action is then implemented, and the results are observed. The researcher then reflects on the results and uses this reflection to inform the next cycle of planning and action.

Applications

Action Study has been used in a variety of fields and contexts. In education, it is often used by teachers to improve their teaching practices and student learning outcomes. In business, it is used to improve organizational processes and employee performance. In the social sciences, it is used to address social issues and bring about social change.

Criticisms

Despite its many applications, Action Study has been criticized for its lack of rigor and objectivity. Critics argue that the active involvement of the researcher in the situation being studied can introduce bias and affect the validity of the results. However, proponents of Action Study argue that this involvement is necessary to truly understand and improve the situation.

See Also

• Qualitative Research
• Social Sciences
• Education
• Business

This research related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.

This social sciences related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.