Action Research: collecting data

For an excellent overview on collecting data, see this chapter from the eBook Action Research. See the follow-up chapter on analysing data here.

• Here are some different ways we can collect data.
• For qualitative research it is recommended that you use three or more collection methods for greater rigour.
• This is referred to as triangulation.

Which three methods seem most suitable for your purposes?

1. Checklists:
   • Predetermined lists that help in observing specific behaviours, skills or interactions in the classroom.
2. Observations:
   • Classroom Observations: The researcher watches and takes notes on teaching practices, student behaviours, interactions and classroom dynamics.
   • Peer Observations: A fellow teacher observes the lesson and provides feedback.
   • Interaction patterns: This is a type of observation in which the observer maps out the learners as they are seated, keeps track of who the teacher interacts with, whether learners interact with one another directly and may include data such as the gender of the students. This is useful to notice whether certain students get more attention (e.g. do the students at the back or to one side of the class get equal opportunities, does one gender get more attention than the other, etc.)
3. Audio and Video Recordings:
   • Recording lessons or interactions to analyse teaching methods, student participation and language use.
4. Surveys and Questionnaires:
   • Used to gather feedback from a larger group. They can cover topics like teaching methods, materials, classroom environment or students’ self-assessment of their skills.
5. Interviews/Focus Groups:
   • Structured Interviews: Predetermined questions are asked to students, teachers or other stakeholders.
   • Semi-structured Interviews: A mix of predetermined and spontaneous questions, allowing for more in-depth exploration.
   • Informal Focus Groups: Casual conversations that can provide insights into students’ feelings, challenges and perceptions.
6. Student Assessments:
   • Collecting and analyzing results from quizzes, tests or exams to understand student progress and areas of difficulty.
7. Portfolios:
   • A collection of students’ work over a period of time, showcasing their progress, achievements, and reflections.
8. Student Journals:
   • Students maintain journals to reflect on their learning experiences, challenges and achievements over time.
9. Teaching Logs:
   • Teachers maintain a diary of their teaching practices, decisions, reflections and observations about each lesson.