Action Research - Entry # 3

Thoughts about action research:

I believe that action research is a very brilliant approach. It gives firsthand experience and research to improve the quality of performance. The researcher or teacher is able to design their own onsite approach to improve their student’s progress, as opposed to other research, where the research is done by people who do not work in the classroom and deal with students directly and constantly. It is an inquiry process with data driven analysis to understand the strategies and techniques. Action research allows teachers to focus on the concerns that they deal with in their day to day instructions. It helps the educator evaluate their students’ needs, documenting the steps of inquiry, analyzing data, and making a decision about what they can implement for their students’ ongoing learning process.

Ideas generated as a result of my project:

My action research project was “Teaching Science to Middle School’. This project gave me ideas which I would not have implemented otherwise. When I was talking to my students in the form of personal interview I was able to get a lot of their background information. The students are more comfortable to talk to me on a one-on-one basis. This way, I was able to get to know their learning style and personal interests.

The students really like activities like making flip books and vocabulary in the form of puzzles and word searches rather than the old traditional method of doing worksheets.

They really love working on the computers! Making use of technology is the best instructional way to prepare our ESL students for the 21^st century classrooms. Some of the best science films are the “Bill Nye the Science Guy” movies which all of my students like.

Another important strategy that I think most science teachers already incorporate in their instructions is the use of experiments and labs. Students like to move around, so this can be very well included when reviewing vocabulary words. I made index cards with definitions on them and arranged them on different stations. Students have a minute to go to each index card and write the word for each definition.

Suggestions to other ESL teachers:

Modifications: based on their reading levels, the students need some modifications. Science textbooks have a very high reading level making learning hard for them if they are not grade level readers. It is important for the Science teacher to modify their work according to their reading level. We can also use alternate words for them to make it easy for them to comprehend the science concepts

When making teams, it is better to partner them with a student who is patient, helpful, and can work with them. Some students get frustrated if others are not to their level in their work. It is really important to pair them with someone who can work with them patiently.

Include topics from their native culture or country; it really works wonders in helping them make connections. Discuss about the scientists who made contribution in American histories, or in the world. It is great way of motivation and encouragement. 

MTSU Honor Statement:

This assessment/assignment was written solely by me. In no way have I plagiarized (represented the work of another as my own) or otherwise violated the copyright laws and academic conventions of fair use. I know that violations of this policy may result in my being dismissed from Middle Tennessee State University and/or appropriate legal action being taken against me. 

Sariya Mohammed

10/13/2010