What is the first step in the Cycle of Action Research?

The first step in the Cycle of Action Research is planning. This step is crucial as it establishes the foundation for the entire research process. In this phase, educators identify a specific issue or area for improvement, formulate research questions, and develop a plan of action to address the identified problem. This involves gathering relevant information, considering potential interventions or strategies, and determining how to assess their effectiveness.

Planning sets clear objectives and outlines the methods that will be used to collect data and evaluate outcomes, ensuring that the subsequent stages—acting, observing, and reflecting—are well-informed and focused on achieving meaningful results. Without a well-defined plan, the other components of the action research cycle may lack direction, making it difficult to achieve the desired improvements in teaching and learning.