Steps for Action Research Plan

1. Setting the Foundation – Through meetings with my school principal we decided the technology proficiency level of the teachers in our school was an important topic to look into.

2. Analyzing data – Through active listening I discovered that there were varying technology proficiency levels of teachers in my school. Some teachers were still struggling with the use of different technologies and while there has been initial training, little follow up training has been conducted.

3. Developing deeper understanding – Through discussions with staff members I gained a deeper understanding of the differing technology levels of teachers. I also looked at literature that addresses teacher technology proficiency levels and strategies to improve it.

4. Engaging in Self-Reflection – Through self reflection I asked myself the following questions:
In what ways can determine the technology proficiency levels of teachers benefit my school?
What will this information lead to?
Does proficiency level have a significant impact on the use of technology in the classroom?
Does proficiency level have an impact on other areas or individuals in the school?
Will teachers be receptive to surveys about their technology proficiency levels and classroom use of technology?

5. Exploring Programmatic Patterns – Through discussions with my principal and other teachers, I realized that I needed to have a greater purpose than just finding the technology proficiency levels of teachers. I discovered that I also needed to find how teachers also use technology in their classrooms and use the information I collected to identify areas in need of improvement.

6. Determining direction – Through discussions and initial inquiry I developed the questions: What are the technology proficiency levels of the teachers in my school and how do they use technology in their classrooms? and How can this information be used to facilitate the professional growth of teachers in the area of technology?

7. Taking action for school improvement – Using Tool 7.1, I mapped out the steps I will take to complete my research.

8. Sustaining improvement – I will evaluate the impact of my action research and look for ways to continuously improve the culture of technology development in my school.


Dana, N. F. (2009). Leading with passion and knowledge: The principal as action researcher. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.

Harris, S., Edmonson, S., and Combs, J. (2010). Examining what we do to improve our schools: 8 steps to improve our schools. Eye on Education Press.