Action Research Project

Action Research Project Overview Action Research Project Topic:  Do safe places in the classroom aid in the overall academic success of hyperactive and behaviorally challenged students? Goal: Allow children who cannot engage in a regular classroom lesson due to hyperactivity, or behavioral challenges, an alternative way to learn without causing distractions for the teacher and other students. Setting the Foundation:  Each year there seems to be an increasing number of students who are unable to sit and listen to classroom lectures without causing some type of distraction. They are unable to engage due to hyperactivity, or are considered behaviorally challenged.  Many times, due to interruptions by some of these students, a teacher must stop the lesson and address behaviors that are unacceptable. In some cases, so much time is wasted on discipline that the remainder of the class misses out on learning, and therefore falls behind.  Although all educators pray for a class full of students who will sit quietly, love all material being presented, never complain, finish all homework, pass all exams, and behave, we know this is not reality. Instead of fighting battles day after day, we must meet some of these hyperactive and behaviorally challenged students half way.  No matter what we do or say, kick and scream, some students will not, and cannot, behave in a way that we expect. Even though their behavior is frustrating, as educators, we owe it to them to provide a quality education. The thought of my action research came when thinking of these special students and how to keep them engaged in a different way. I wanted to give them an outlet where they can feel comfortable and keep distractions from occurring.  A classroom “safe place” would be an area in the classroom where a student, who is feeling frustrated, or unable to sit still, can move to and listen.  This area would have enough room for a student to stand, or walk around, while continuing to participate in the discussion. Also, there would be a few computers close by where a student could work on a music program and not distract the class.  The idea is to keep these students, who need modified instruction, to learn and not cause interruptions so learning can continue to take place.  Analyze Data: When students are identified, then different strategies and techniques can be used when problems arise. After a situation, then strategies and techniques used to calm the situation will be documented on specially created templates.  Then after a few months of documentation, we will be able to tell if the “safe places” were effective. Developing Deeper Understanding: After the observations and the data have been documented, my assistant principal and I can see whether there is a pattern with my targeted students. If strategies, calming techniques, computers, and safe places, are aiding in the engagement of our hyperactive and emotionally challenged students, then this information can be passed onto the regular classroom teacher.  Engaging in Self Reflection: During this action research project consistent documentation is key.  After each problematic situation, records need to state what was the altercation? What was the strategy used to calm the situation? Was it effective? Did learning continue for the student and the rest of the class?  Also, I will continue to share information that is working through my blog. This action research project, if done correctly, can help educators from elementary to secondary.  Exploring Problematic Patterns: This action research project will also include interviewing and feedback from the school counselor and campus administration. Is there any information that I should know that will help my targeted students? Also, by interviewing district therapists, I can gain insight to more calming techniques and strategies that will help with my research. Determining Direction: Throughout my action research project I hope to meet regularly with my assistant principal to report my findings.  Also, I would like to keep in close contact with the teachers of my targeted students. Have they seen a difference in behavior after the implementation of safe places? Since I am one of their teachers, I would also document any changes negative and positive. Taking Action for School Improvement: If my action research project proves to be successful then I would like to encourage all staff members to incorporate safe places into their classrooms. With less discipline problems, learning can take place for the entire class.  If effective learning is happening, then the educational environment will be a positive one, promoting academic success. Sustaining Improvement: My goal is for my action research project to be promoted annually by our campus administration. If safe places in the classroom prove to be successful, I would encourage administration to strongly recommend that all classroom teachers have one.  It would also be very helpful for first year educators who do not have experience with hyperactive or behaviorally challenged students.