Action Research: Improving Schools and Empowering Educators, 6th Edition – Paperback by Craig A. Mertler

Action Research: Improving Schools and Empowering Educators, 6th Edition by Craig A. Mertler is a practical educational research textbook that introduces educators to the process of designing and conducting classroom-based action research. Published by SAGE Publications, the book helps teachers and school leaders investigate educational challenges, evaluate instructional practices, and use evidence to support continuous improvement.

Following a structured approach, the book guides readers through identifying a research problem, reviewing relevant literature, planning a study, collecting and analyzing data, developing an action plan, and communicating findings. It connects research methods with everyday educational practice, helping readers make informed decisions about classroom activities, teaching strategies, and school procedures.

Designed for both new and experienced educators, the sixth edition makes practitioner-based research more accessible through clear explanations and practical examples. It supports reflective teaching, professional learning, and the systematic evaluation of educational practices.

About the Book

This textbook explains how educators can use action research to investigate problems in their own professional settings and apply findings to improve teaching and learning.

Key Topics Covered:

• Introduction to Action Research: Understanding the purpose and application of practitioner-based inquiry.

• Research Planning: Identifying a problem, reviewing literature, and developing research questions.

• Research Design: Selecting suitable approaches and methods for an educational study.

• Data Collection: Gathering relevant classroom and school information.

• Data Analysis: Interpreting findings and connecting evidence to research questions.

• Action Planning: Applying results to develop improvement strategies.

• Reporting Findings: Preparing research reports and communicating results to relevant stakeholders.

Key Features

• Step-by-step introduction to educational action research.

• Practical guidance for planning and conducting research.

• Focus on classroom-based inquiry and school improvement.

• Coverage of research design, data collection, and analysis.

• Emphasis on applying findings to real educational settings.

About the Author

Craig A. Mertler is an educator, researcher, and academic author specializing in action research, educational assessment, quantitative methods, and data-informed decision-making. His work focuses on helping teachers and educational leaders use systematic inquiry to strengthen instructional practices, support professional development, and improve educational outcomes.

Ideal For

• Undergraduate and postgraduate education students.

• Practicing teachers and classroom educators.

• School administrators and educational leaders.

• Teacher educators and professional development trainers.

• Educational researchers and practitioner-researchers.

• Readers studying research methods and school improvement.

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