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Action research as a method of problem posing and problem solving is explained, with suggestions for developing an action research project. The cycles of action research and the questions needed to operationalize the approach are discussed.As seen in the previous chapter, action research is a form of inductive, practical research that focuses on gaining a better understanding of a practice problem or achieving a real change or improvement in the practice context. In brief summary, action research, as an approach to research, is essentially a systematic process of practitioner problem posing and problem solving. In carrying out this systematic process of problem posing and problem solving, action research uses a kind of trial-and-error approach when seeking to both understand and resolve practice-based problems and issues. Action research can partially be understood as a process of trial and error because when using this research strategy, an adult education practitioner-researcher tries a hunch or intervention, then, after observing and reflecting on the outcomes, typically tries yet another variation of the intervention (Argyris, 1982). Yet action research is much more than merely trial and error, because it incorporates systematic procedures that combine analysis, observation, and data collection into the process. The systematic use of analysis, observation, and data collection procedures gives action research the potential to achieve useful answers to practice problems. Further, action research also has the potential of having its findings applied in similar practice settings across the country.

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