"Recognizing the importance of race, class, gender, culture, and ability, the authors provide a window into the difficulties that professional educators grapple with as they face the challenge of teaching all children. This text is both authentic and practical, and it demystifies the issues of equity that pervade today's classrooms." -Diane Yendol-Hoppey, Associate Professor University of Florida, Gainsville "Action research of this caliber on the subject of equity is critically needed for all children to have access to the same level of rigor and high standards. This is a must-read for districts that really want to turn action research into action that affects student learning." -Terry Morganti-Fisher, Director of Professional Development Austin Independent School District, TX Utilize the power of action research to narrow the achievement gap! Despite the best intentions of reform efforts, educational inequity continues to exist in public schools. Creating Equitable Classrooms Through Action Research confronts this challenge head-on and shows educators how they can use action research to both raise student achievement and strengthen instructional leadership. Ideal for both a first-time action research endeavor or one already in progress, this practical guidebook helps practitioners formulate specific research questions, collect and analyze data, and communicate their findings. Educators will discover: Ten action research studies on narrowing the achievement gap Guidelines for implementing an action research project that supports culturally relevant instruction Authentic examples for discussion and reflection Invaluable for school district leaders, teachers, professional development schools, and preservice teachers, this resource for systemwide improvement efforts helps schools provide more equitable learning environments for all children.
Creating Equitable Classrooms Through Action Research looks at the issue of educational equity and illustrates how action research can be used schoolwide or districtwide to address this challenge. The editors have been involved in a highly successful and much studied action research that is used districtwide with a focus on the particular demographics and challenges of their district. The results of the action research study have created a deep knowledge base and capacity. The text provides an overview of the key conceptual and structural features for implementing a schoolwide or districtwide action research program and includes ten studies on narrowing the achievement gap between racial and ethnic groups. The findings of the action research study are connected to the broader body of knowledge on equity in schools. The action research studies illustrate varied approaches to help educators planning an action research project or currently working on an action research project. Real stories and studies from classroom teachers serve as examples of authentic professional development and as springboards for discussion and reflection on the process of inquiry and the issues of equity. The book includes: - 10 action research studies that focus on equity, race, and the achievement gap - how to implement a school-wide or district wide action research program that will promote equity and help close the achievement gap This is an ideal resource for school district leaders, teachers, and preservice teachers, and is also suited for professional development schools.
