Classroom
Action Research
According to Nunan (1990:62), a classroom action research does
not require the standard formalization of a research project with a literature
search, hypothesis testing, treatment conditions, ect. Instead, it consists of
seven basic steps to investigate a problem. They are as follows :
a. After
determining that there is a potential problem, survey what is happening
b. Code
the observation based on the problem and what was seen.
c. Based
on the coded information, determine one change
that could impact the problem in a positive manner.
d. Implement
the change in the course /classroom.
e. Observe
the class/course (as in step 1) while implementing the change.
f. Code the new observation(s) as in step 2.
g. Finally,
compare the coded sessions to determine the results of the change.
There are some definition of action
research which stated by some experts, as follows ;
a. Lewin
(1946:10) described action research as “ a comparative research on the
condition and effects of various form of social action” that uses “ a spiral of
steps, each of which is composed of a circle of planning, action, and fact-
finding about the result of the action.
b. Jung
(1990:144). Action research something called “practitioner research,” is a
reflective investigation of a personal interest, problem or challenge.
c. Kemmis
and McTaggart (1998:310). Action research is a form of collaborative self-
reflective inquiry undertaken by teachers to improve their own practices, their
understanding of those practice , and the situation in which those practices are called out.
d. Tabachnic
and Zeichner (1999:310 ). Action research is a systematic examination and
collaborative analysis of the consequences of some classroom action.
e. Bennett
(1968:322). Action research as “doing something in an attempt to find answers
for specific questions in students’ minds” which alludes to the use of a proper
set of technique and procedures that are applicable to the individual students
based upon practices used daily in science.
