Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Action Research EDLD5301 Week Two Reflection

I really enjoyed the reading assignments this week and seeing applied inquiry and research in action.  I am still struggling with making the connection between K-12 and higher education; however, many of the examples referenced in the text could include higher education in the discussion.  We are experiencing the same transition disconnect in higher education and by working together we can develop seamless transitions to higher education.  If our partners in K-12 do not understand our expectations for entering students, how can we expect the student to understand why he/she is liable for remediation?

In addition, the "silos" that were discussed are similar to the "silos" in higher education.  Grade level and departmental integration will facilitate student achieve and change a campus culture.  Silos create an environment that permits finger pointing and the blame game. Creating opportunities for cross-departmental collaboration and inquiry will aide in eliminating the silos.

Finally, to use another higher education metaphor: inquiry allows us to manage the "low hanging fruit." Throughout this week, we saw examples of principals who found opportunities "ripe" for inquiry and change.  We should all be challenged as leaders to reflect more often and take advantage of all opportunities to make changes based on what we know about ourselves, our staff and our students.

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