California Preliminary Administrative Credential Examination (CPACE) Practice Exam

The primary purpose of action research in education is to enable teachers to systematically examine their own practices and make informed improvements. This reflective process involves identifying specific issues or challenges within their teaching or within their students' learning environments, collecting data pertaining to those areas, analyzing the information, and implementing changes based on the findings. The iterative nature of action research allows educators to refine their approaches continually, thus promoting professional development and enhancing the educational outcomes for students.

In contrast, statistical studies of student performance on standardized tests focus predominantly on quantitative outcomes and do not engage educators in a reflective practice. Research directed and carried out by students typically emphasizes student learning or experiences rather than teacher practices. Studies of broad national trends look at overarching themes across many educational contexts without the focused, practical application that action research encourages among teachers.