CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION & BACKGROUND 

Level 1 Headings:

  • Context of the Study
  • Focus Statement/Question

This chapter provides the background for your study. It typically includes a description of your school, classroom, students, city, and state. All factual information must be cited, using sources such as school or district websites, communication with administrators, or sites like city-data.com.

Most researchers include the rationale for the study here, which naturally leads into the focus question or statement and provides a smooth transition into the conceptual framework.

 

CHAPTER TWO: CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

Level 1 Headings:

  • Up to 5–6 headings, each based on a theme from the literature

This chapter outlines the conceptual framework that guides the study. It presents definitions and key concepts from existing literature relevant to the research. Avoid using first-person language. All information must be properly cited and drawn from the literature.

 

CHAPTER THREE: METHODOLOGY

Level 1 Headings:

  • Demographics
  • Treatment
  • Data Collection and Analysis Strategies

Be sure to describe the study setting and participants. Include a reference to your IRB exemption and cite the exemption letter in the Appendix.

Describe the treatment - what you did differently during the study.

Detail your data collection and analysis strategies. Name and capitalize each data collection instrument, describe its purpose, and reference it in the appendix. Also describe how data was analyzed. If you used a specific scoring rubric or scheme, explain it here. Include a brief description of your sample size and population. You should include a Data Triangulation Matrix in this chapter.

 

CHAPTER FOUR: DATA ANALYSIS: CLAIMS AND EVIDENCE 

Level 1 Heading:

  • Results

This chapter is all about the data. It should present facts only, no interpretation or reflection. Your data analysis should clearly connect to earlier parts of your study.

Start by identifying themes that emerged from the data, rather than reporting results instrument by instrument. Once themes are established, use evidence from multiple data sources to support each theme. This chapter tells the “data story” of your research.

 

CHAPTER FIVE: VALUES: REASONING AND REFLECTION

Level 1 Headings:

  • Claims From the Study
  • Value of the Study and Consideration for Future Research
  • Impact of Action Research on the Author

This chapter allows for reflection and interpretation. Choose one or two of the following approaches to explore:

  • Discuss claims from your data that show transformation
  • Evaluate the quality of your research
  • Raise new questions based on your findings
  • Connect your findings to existing literature or your personal experience
  • Reflect on the value of the study for your students, classroom, or school

End with a personal reflection on how conducting action research has changed you as an educator.