Why do we use Action Research?

When beginning my blog, I was a little unclear as to what action research even meant.  After some reading and research, I learned it was a tool that most people use, they just don't know what it is called.  Action research seems to be the way for teachers and administrators to hold themselves accountable for what and how they are teaching.  This is not a new theory, merely a "proper" name for  what most successful teachers are doing already.  As educators, we are constantly evaluating the students by checking their response to the learning opportunities in their classrooms.  Knowing how to collect the information on our own is needed when trying to solve a problem.
We have all been victims of a "great idea" gone bad.  I, for one, have sat through conferences, staff developments, websites, etc..., with all these amazing ideas on how to solve a particular issue.  Sadly, I never seem to read the fine print that tells me I need more time, more money or more support.  It can be very frustrating.
One of the greatest advantages to action research is that I am able to do it on my own.  I believe that by implementing the time myself, I will become more invested in the success for my students.  When I know that I am able to feed my passion, I tend to take ownership because I  want it to be successful.  At this point, I feel pure joy because  I know that I came up with the best outcome possible. 
Reflection is also a large part of action research.  This is a tool that allows us to process our outcome and see if it is, in fact, the best solution.  Since I would have started the research at the beginning, I will know each step along the way.  Being able to reflect upon each individual step will allow me to make changes and modifications to my research so that I can have the ultimate success.
The old familiar saying, "timing is everything" really  hits hard when it comes to action research.  To come up with the project, implement the plan, research, and then reflect upon it, could take months if not longer.  Many people just don't want to put forth the time or effort on such an ordeal.  Depending on if I chose to use the project annually, I could be evaluating it and tweaking it each year for quite awhile until I was pleased with the end result. 
There are always pros and cons to every situation, I just have to weigh my options and strive for the highest success for my students.

Educational Blogging

What is educational blogging and why in the world are people using it?  We, as educators, have to be up to date on the latest technology to compete in the ever changing world.  People change status updates, pin things and even blog.  It can be a wonderful way for peers near and far to learn from one another.
In education, no matter what level you teach, you have the opportunity to share your experiences, research and knowledge.  I have used blogs in the past for quotes and funny pictures to send out to staff on a Monday morning.  Everyone likes an early morning chuckle.  The idea of sharing lessons and gaining new ideas is just a click away.  With technology being available 24/7, we should embrace this convenience.  Blogging not only gives an individual their own space to air out their frustrations, but it also allows them the opportunity to shine and receive a following. 
Blogging shouldn't be scary, but a way to enhance our learning.  It seems that once you start blogging, it takes on a life of its own.  You gain friends first, and then you begin to follow others...and it doesn't hurt that you can do it from the comforts of your own home.
Cheers~
brandi