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• What Is Action Research? | Definition & Examples

What Is Action Research? | Definition & Examples

Published on January 27, 2023 by Tegan George . Revised on January 12, 2024.

Table of contents

Types of action research, action research models, examples of action research, action research vs. traditional research, advantages and disadvantages of action research, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about action research.

There are 2 common types of action research: participatory action research and practical action research.

• Participatory action research emphasizes that participants should be members of the community being studied, empowering those directly affected by outcomes of said research. In this method, participants are effectively co-researchers, with their lived experiences considered formative to the research process.
• Practical action research focuses more on how research is conducted and is designed to address and solve specific issues.

Both types of action research are more focused on increasing the capacity and ability of future practitioners than contributing to a theoretical body of knowledge.

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Action research is often reflected in 3 action research models: operational (sometimes called technical), collaboration, and critical reflection.

• Operational (or technical) action research is usually visualized like a spiral following a series of steps, such as “planning → acting → observing → reflecting.”
• Collaboration action research is more community-based, focused on building a network of similar individuals (e.g., college professors in a given geographic area) and compiling learnings from iterated feedback cycles.
• Critical reflection action research serves to contextualize systemic processes that are already ongoing (e.g., working retroactively to analyze existing school systems by questioning why certain practices were put into place and developed the way they did).

Action research is often used in fields like education because of its iterative and flexible style.

After the information was collected, the students were asked where they thought ramps or other accessibility measures would be best utilized, and the suggestions were sent to school administrators. Example: Practical action research Science teachers at your city’s high school have been witnessing a year-over-year decline in standardized test scores in chemistry. In seeking the source of this issue, they studied how concepts are taught in depth, focusing on the methods, tools, and approaches used by each teacher.

Action research differs sharply from other types of research in that it seeks to produce actionable processes over the course of the research rather than contributing to existing knowledge or drawing conclusions from datasets. In this way, action research is formative , not summative , and is conducted in an ongoing, iterative way.

As such, action research is different in purpose, context, and significance and is a good fit for those seeking to implement systemic change.

Action research comes with advantages and disadvantages.

• Action research is highly adaptable , allowing researchers to mold their analysis to their individual needs and implement practical individual-level changes.
• Action research provides an immediate and actionable path forward for solving entrenched issues, rather than suggesting complicated, longer-term solutions rooted in complex data.
• Done correctly, action research can be very empowering , informing social change and allowing participants to effect that change in ways meaningful to their communities.

Disadvantages

• Due to their flexibility, action research studies are plagued by very limited generalizability  and are very difficult to replicate . They are often not considered theoretically rigorous due to the power the researcher holds in drawing conclusions.
• Action research can be complicated to structure in an ethical manner . Participants may feel pressured to participate or to participate in a certain way.
• Action research is at high risk for research biases such as selection bias , social desirability bias , or other types of cognitive biases .

If you want to know more about statistics , methodology , or research bias , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

• Normal distribution
• Degrees of freedom
• Null hypothesis
• Discourse analysis
• Control groups
• Mixed methods research
• Non-probability sampling
• Quantitative research
• Inclusion and exclusion criteria

Research bias

• Rosenthal effect
• Implicit bias
• Cognitive bias
• Selection bias
• Negativity bias
• Status quo bias

Action research is conducted in order to solve a particular issue immediately, while case studies are often conducted over a longer period of time and focus more on observing and analyzing a particular ongoing phenomenon.

Action research is focused on solving a problem or informing individual and community-based knowledge in a way that impacts teaching, learning, and other related processes. It is less focused on contributing theoretical input, instead producing actionable input.

Action research is particularly popular with educators as a form of systematic inquiry because it prioritizes reflection and bridges the gap between theory and practice. Educators are able to simultaneously investigate an issue as they solve it, and the method is very iterative and flexible.

A cycle of inquiry is another name for action research . It is usually visualized in a spiral shape following a series of steps, such as “planning → acting → observing → reflecting.”

Sources in this article

We strongly encourage students to use sources in their work. You can cite our article (APA Style) or take a deep dive into the articles below.

George, T. (2024, January 12). What Is Action Research? | Definition & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved April 6, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/methodology/action-research/

Cohen, L., Manion, L., & Morrison, K. (2017). Research methods in education (8th edition). Routledge.

Naughton, G. M. (2001).  Action research (1st edition). Routledge.

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Action Research: What it is, Stages & Examples

The best way to get things accomplished is to do it yourself. This statement is utilized in corporations, community projects, and national governments. These organizations are relying on action research to cope with their continuously changing and unstable environments as they function in a more interdependent world.

In practical educational contexts, this involves using systematic inquiry and reflective practice to address real-world challenges, improve teaching and learning, enhance student engagement, and drive positive changes within the educational system.

This post outlines the definition of action research, its stages, and some examples.

Content Index

What is action research?

Stages of action research, the steps to conducting action research, examples of action research, advantages and disadvantages of action research.

Action research is a strategy that tries to find realistic solutions to organizations’ difficulties and issues. It is similar to applied research.

Action research refers basically learning by doing. First, a problem is identified, then some actions are taken to address it, then how well the efforts worked are measured, and if the results are not satisfactory, the steps are applied again.

It can be put into three different groups:

• Positivist: This type of research is also called “classical action research.” It considers research a social experiment. This research is used to test theories in the actual world.
• Interpretive: This kind of research is called “contemporary action research.” It thinks that business reality is socially made, and when doing this research, it focuses on the details of local and organizational factors.
• Critical: This action research cycle takes a critical reflection approach to corporate systems and tries to enhance them.

All research is about learning new things. Collaborative action research contributes knowledge based on investigations in particular and frequently useful circumstances. It starts with identifying a problem. After that, the research process is followed by the below stages:

Stage 1: Plan

For an action research project to go well, the researcher needs to plan it well. After coming up with an educational research topic or question after a research study, the first step is to develop an action plan to guide the research process. The research design aims to address the study’s question. The research strategy outlines what to undertake, when, and how.

Stage 2: Act

The next step is implementing the plan and gathering data. At this point, the researcher must select how to collect and organize research data . The researcher also needs to examine all tools and equipment before collecting data to ensure they are relevant, valid, and comprehensive.

Stage 3: Observe

Data observation is vital to any investigation. The action researcher needs to review the project’s goals and expectations before data observation. This is the final step before drawing conclusions and taking action.

Different kinds of graphs, charts, and networks can be used to represent the data. It assists in making judgments or progressing to the next stage of observing.

Stage 4: Reflect

This step involves applying a prospective solution and observing the results. It’s essential to see if the possible solution found through research can really solve the problem being studied.

The researcher must explore alternative ideas when the action research project’s solutions fail to solve the problem.

Action research is a systematic approach researchers, educators, and practitioners use to identify and address problems or challenges within a specific context. It involves a cyclical process of planning, implementing, reflecting, and adjusting actions based on the data collected. Here are the general steps involved in conducting an action research process:

Identify the action research question or problem

Clearly define the issue or problem you want to address through your research. It should be specific, actionable, and relevant to your working context.

Review existing knowledge

Conduct a literature review to understand what research has already been done on the topic. This will help you gain insights, identify gaps, and inform your research design.

Plan the research

Develop a research plan outlining your study’s objectives, methods, data collection tools, and timeline. Determine the scope of your research and the participants or stakeholders involved.

Collect data

Implement your research plan by collecting relevant data. This can involve various methods such as surveys, interviews, observations, document analysis, or focus groups. Ensure that your data collection methods align with your research objectives and allow you to gather the necessary information.

Analyze the data

Once you have collected the data, analyze it using appropriate qualitative or quantitative techniques. Look for patterns, themes, or trends in the data that can help you understand the problem better.

Reflect on the findings

Reflect on the analyzed data and interpret the results in the context of your research question. Consider the implications and possible solutions that emerge from the data analysis. This reflection phase is crucial for generating insights and understanding the underlying factors contributing to the problem.

Develop an action plan

Based on your analysis and reflection, develop an action plan that outlines the steps you will take to address the identified problem. The plan should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART goals). Consider involving relevant stakeholders in planning to ensure their buy-in and support.

Implement the action plan

Put your action plan into practice by implementing the identified strategies or interventions. This may involve making changes to existing practices, introducing new approaches, or testing alternative solutions. Document the implementation process and any modifications made along the way.

Evaluate and monitor progress

Continuously monitor and evaluate the impact of your actions. Collect additional data, assess the effectiveness of the interventions, and measure progress towards your goals. This evaluation will help you determine if your actions have the desired effects and inform any necessary adjustments.

Reflect and iterate

Reflect on the outcomes of your actions and the evaluation results. Consider what worked well, what did not, and why. Use this information to refine your approach, make necessary adjustments, and plan for the next cycle of action research if needed.

Remember that participatory action research is an iterative process, and multiple cycles may be required to achieve significant improvements or solutions to the identified problem. Each cycle builds on the insights gained from the previous one, fostering continuous learning and improvement.

Explore Insightfully Contextual Inquiry in Qualitative Research

Here are two real-life examples of action research.

Action research initiatives are frequently situation-specific. Still, other researchers can adapt the techniques. The example is from a researcher’s (Franklin, 1994) report about a project encouraging nature tourism in the Caribbean.

In 1991, this was launched to study how nature tourism may be implemented on the four Windward Islands in the Caribbean: St. Lucia, Grenada, Dominica, and St. Vincent.

For environmental protection, a government-led action study determined that the consultation process needs to involve numerous stakeholders, including commercial enterprises.

First, two researchers undertook the study and held search conferences on each island. The search conferences resulted in suggestions and action plans for local community nature tourism sub-projects.

Several islands formed advisory groups and launched national awareness and community projects. Regional project meetings were held to discuss experiences, self-evaluations, and strategies. Creating a documentary about a local initiative helped build community. And the study was a success, leading to a number of changes in the area.

Lau and Hayward (1997) employed action research to analyze Internet-based collaborative work groups.

Over two years, the researchers facilitated three action research problem -solving cycles with 15 teachers, project personnel, and 25 health practitioners from diverse areas. The goal was to see how Internet-based communications might affect their virtual workgroup.

First, expectations were defined, technology was provided, and a bespoke workgroup system was developed. Participants suggested shorter, more dispersed training sessions with project-specific instructions.

The second phase saw the system’s complete deployment. The final cycle witnessed system stability and virtual group formation. The key lesson was that the learning curve was poorly misjudged, with frustrations only marginally met by phone-based technical help. According to the researchers, the absence of high-quality online material about community healthcare was harmful.

Role clarity, connection building, knowledge sharing, resource assistance, and experiential learning are vital for virtual group growth. More study is required on how group support systems might assist groups in engaging with their external environment and boost group members’ learning. 

Action research has both good and bad points.

• It is very flexible, so researchers can change their analyses to fit their needs and make individual changes.
• It offers a quick and easy way to solve problems that have been going on for a long time instead of complicated, long-term solutions based on complex facts.
• If It is done right, it can be very powerful because it can lead to social change and give people the tools to make that change in ways that are important to their communities.

Disadvantages

• These studies have a hard time being generalized and are hard to repeat because they are so flexible. Because the researcher has the power to draw conclusions, they are often not thought to be theoretically sound.
• Setting up an action study in an ethical way can be hard. People may feel like they have to take part or take part in a certain way.
• It is prone to research errors like selection bias , social desirability bias, and other cognitive biases.

LEARN ABOUT: Self-Selection Bias

This post discusses how action research generates knowledge, its steps, and real-life examples. It is very applicable to the field of research and has a high level of relevance. We can only state that the purpose of this research is to comprehend an issue and find a solution to it.

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Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ’s)

Action research is a systematic approach to inquiry that involves identifying a problem or challenge in a practical context, implementing interventions or changes, collecting and analyzing data, and using the findings to inform decision-making and drive positive change.

Action research can be conducted by various individuals or groups, including teachers, administrators, researchers, and educational practitioners. It is often carried out by those directly involved in the educational setting where the research takes place.

The steps of action research typically include identifying a problem, reviewing relevant literature, designing interventions or changes, collecting and analyzing data, reflecting on findings, and implementing improvements based on the results.

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Action Research: Steps, Benefits, and Tips

Introduction

History of action research, what is the definition of action research, types of action research, conducting action research.

Action research stands as a unique approach in the realm of qualitative inquiry in social science research. Rooted in real-world problems, it seeks not just to understand but also to act, bringing about positive change in specific contexts. Often distinguished by its collaborative nature, the action research process goes beyond traditional research paradigms by emphasizing the involvement of those being studied in resolving social conflicts and effecting positive change.

The value of action research lies not just in its outcomes, but also in the process itself, where stakeholders become active participants rather than mere subjects. In this article, we'll examine action research in depth, shedding light on its history, principles, and types of action research.

Tracing its roots back to the mid-20th century, Kurt Lewin developed classical action research as a response to traditional research methods in the social sciences that often sidelined the very communities they studied. Proponents of action research championed the idea that research should not just be an observational exercise but an actionable one that involves devising practical solutions. Advocates believed in the idea of research leading to immediate social action, emphasizing the importance of involving the community in the process.

Applications for action research

Over the years, action research has evolved and diversified. From its early applications in social psychology and organizational development, it has branched out into various fields such as education, healthcare, and community development, informing questions around improving schools, minority problems, and more. This growth wasn't just in application, but also in its methodologies.

How is action research different?

Like all research methodologies, effective action research generates knowledge. However, action research stands apart in its commitment to instigate tangible change. Traditional research often places emphasis on passive observation , employing data collection methods primarily to contribute to broader theoretical frameworks . In contrast, action research is inherently proactive, intertwining the acts of observing and acting.

The primary goal isn't just to understand a problem but to solve or alleviate it. Action researchers partner closely with communities, ensuring that the research process directly benefits those involved. This collaboration often leads to immediate interventions, tweaks, or solutions applied in real-time, marking a departure from other forms of research that might wait until the end of a study to make recommendations.

This proactive, change-driven nature makes action research particularly impactful in settings where immediate change is not just beneficial but essential.

Action research is best understood as a systematic approach to cooperative inquiry. Unlike traditional research methodologies that might primarily focus on generating knowledge, action research emphasizes producing actionable solutions for pressing real-world challenges.

This form of research undertakes a cyclic and reflective journey, typically cycling through stages of planning , acting, observing, and reflecting. A defining characteristic of action research is the collaborative spirit it embodies, often dissolving the rigid distinction between the researcher and the researched, leading to mutual learning and shared outcomes.

Advantages of action research

One of the foremost benefits of action research is the immediacy of its application. Since the research is embedded within real-world issues, any findings or solutions derived can often be integrated straightaway, catalyzing prompt improvements within the concerned community or organization. This immediacy is coupled with the empowering nature of the methodology. Participants aren't mere subjects; they actively shape the research process, giving them a tangible sense of ownership over both the research journey and its eventual outcomes.

Moreover, the inherent adaptability of action research allows researchers to tweak their approaches responsively based on live feedback. This ensures the research remains rooted in the evolving context, capturing the nuances of the situation and making any necessary adjustments. Lastly, this form of research tends to offer a comprehensive understanding of the issue at hand, harmonizing socially constructed theoretical knowledge with hands-on insights, leading to a richer, more textured understanding.

Disadvantages of action research

Like any methodology, action research isn't devoid of challenges. Its iterative nature, while beneficial, can extend timelines. Researchers might find themselves engaged in multiple cycles of observation, reflection, and action before arriving at a satisfactory conclusion. The intimate involvement of the researcher with the research participants, although crucial for collaboration, opens doors to potential conflicts. Through collaborative problem solving, disagreements can lead to richer and more nuanced solutions, but it can take considerable time and effort.

Another limitation stems from its focus on a specific context: results derived from a particular action research project might not always resonate or be applicable in a different context or with a different group. Lastly, the depth of collaboration this methodology demands means all stakeholders need to be deeply invested, and such a level of commitment might not always be feasible.

Examples of action research

To illustrate, let's consider a few scenarios. Imagine a classroom where a teacher observes dwindling student participation. Instead of sticking to conventional methods, the teacher experiments with introducing group-based activities. As the outcomes unfold, the teacher continually refines the approach based on student feedback, eventually leading to a teaching strategy that rejuvenates student engagement.

In a healthcare context, hospital staff who recognize growing patient anxiety related to certain procedures might innovate by introducing a new patient-informing protocol. As they study the effects of this change, they could, through iterations, sculpt a procedure that diminishes patient anxiety.

Similarly, in the realm of community development, a community grappling with the absence of child-friendly public spaces might collaborate with local authorities to conceptualize a park. As they monitor its utilization and societal impact, continual feedback could refine the park's infrastructure and design.

Contemporary action research, while grounded in the core principles of collaboration, reflection, and change, has seen various adaptations tailored to the specific needs of different contexts and fields. These adaptations have led to the emergence of distinct types of action research, each with its unique emphasis and approach.

Collaborative action research

Collaborative action research emphasizes the joint efforts of professionals, often from the same field, working together to address common concerns or challenges. In this approach, there's a strong emphasis on shared responsibility, mutual respect, and co-learning. For example, a group of classroom teachers might collaboratively investigate methods to improve student literacy, pooling their expertise and resources to devise, implement, and refine strategies for improving teaching.

Participatory action research

Participatory action research (PAR) goes a step further in dissolving the barriers between the researcher and the researched. It actively involves community members or stakeholders not just as participants, but as equal partners in the entire research process. PAR is deeply democratic and seeks to empower participants, fostering a sense of agency and ownership. For instance, a participatory research project might involve local residents in studying and addressing community health concerns, ensuring that the research process and outcomes are both informed by and beneficial to the community itself.

Educational action research

Educational action research is tailored specifically to practical educational contexts. Here, educators take on the dual role of teacher and researcher, seeking to improve teaching practices, curricula, classroom dynamics, or educational evaluation. This type of research is cyclical, with educators implementing changes, observing outcomes, and reflecting on results to continually enhance the educational experience. An example might be a teacher studying the impact of technology integration in her classroom, adjusting strategies based on student feedback and learning outcomes.

Community-based action research

Another noteworthy type is community-based action research, which focuses primarily on community development and well-being. Rooted in the principles of social justice, this approach emphasizes the collective power of community members to identify, study, and address their challenges. It's particularly powerful in grassroots movements and local development projects where community insights and collaboration drive meaningful, sustainable change.

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Engaging in action research is both an enlightening and transformative journey, rooted in practicality yet deeply connected to theory. For those embarking on this path, understanding the essentials of an action research study and the significance of a research cycle is paramount.

Understanding the action research cycle

At the heart of action research is its cycle, a structured yet adaptable framework guiding the research. This cycle embodies the iterative nature of action research, emphasizing that learning and change evolve through repetition and reflection.

The typical stages include:

• Identifying a problem : This is the starting point where the action researcher pinpoints a pressing issue or challenge that demands attention.
• Planning : Here, the researcher devises an action research strategy aimed at addressing the identified problem. In action research, network resources, participant consultation, and the literature review are core components in planning.
• Action : The planned strategies are then implemented in this stage. This 'action' phase is where theoretical knowledge meets practical application.
• Observation : Post-implementation, the researcher observes the outcomes and effects of the action. This stage ensures that the research remains grounded in the real-world context.
• Critical reflection : This part of the cycle involves analyzing the observed results to draw conclusions about their effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
• Revision : Based on the insights from reflection, the initial plan is revised, marking the beginning of another cycle.

Rigorous research and iteration

It's essential to understand that while action research is deeply practical, it doesn't sacrifice rigor . The cyclical process ensures that the research remains thorough and robust. Each iteration of the cycle in an action research project refines the approach, drawing it closer to an effective solution.

The role of the action researcher

The action researcher stands at the nexus of theory and practice. Not just an observer, the researcher actively engages with the study's participants, collaboratively navigating through the research cycle by conducting interviews, participant observations, and member checking . This close involvement ensures that the study remains relevant, timely, and responsive.

Drawing conclusions and informing theory

As the research progresses through multiple iterations of data collection and data analysis , drawing conclusions becomes an integral aspect. These conclusions, while immediately beneficial in addressing the practical issue at hand, also serve a broader purpose. They inform theory, enriching the academic discourse and providing valuable insights for future research.

Identifying actionable insights

Keep in mind that action research should facilitate implications for professional practice as well as space for systematic inquiry. As you draw conclusions about the knowledge generated from action research, consider how this knowledge can create new forms of solutions to the pressing concern you set out to address.

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Application of action research in the field of healthcare: a scoping review protocol

1 UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland

David Coghlan

2 Trinity Business School, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland

Áine Carroll

3 School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland

4 National Rehabilitation Hospital, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin, Ireland

Diarmuid Stokes

5 The Library, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland

Kinley Roberts

Geralyn hynes.

6 School of Nursing & Midwifery, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland

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Version Changes

Revised. amendments from version 1.

We received feedback from two very helpful experts in the field of action research and action learning. There were a few minor changes that we made in the light of this feedback as seen hereunder. We see all action research as involving change, action, and reflection which is thus transformational and transformative in some way. We further elaborated slightly on the description of stage 5 to emphasise that there is no extant quality appraisal checklist for action research studies and that our findings will contribute to future development.  We justified our choice of action research framework on the basis that the framework by Coghlan and Shani (2018) expresses the essential relationships between context, quality of relationships, has a dual focus on the inquiry and implementation process as well as concern for the actionability and contribution to knowledge creation. These four factors comprise a comprehensive framework as they capture the core of action research and the complex cause-and-effect dynamics within each factor and between the factors. We interpret the explanatory definition of organisational context as described by Coghlan and Shani (2018) to include community healthcare context which is also seen as community care context in healthcare parlance. Therefore, our search will pick up CBPR. We have clarified that participative values are embodied within the relational component of the action research and added an additional reference. We have also justified the inclusion of a particular focus on measurement of the degree of participation as in some publications the inclusion of stakeholders in interviews and focus groups only, is taken as essentially constituting the entire spectrum of the core values of participation and inclusion of the quality of the co-researcher partnership.

Peer Review Summary

Background: Traditional research approaches are increasingly challenged in healthcare contexts as they produce abstract thinking rather than practical application. In this regard, action research is a growing area of popularity and interest, essentially because of its dual focus on theory and action. However, there is a need for action researchers not only to justify their research approach but also to demonstrate the quality of their empirical studies. Therefore, the authors set out to examine the current status of the quality of extant action research studies in healthcare to encourage improved scholarship in this area. The aim of this scoping review is to identify, explore and map the literature regarding the application of action research in either individual, group or organisational domains in any healthcare context.

Methods: The systematic scoping review will search the literature within the databases of CINAHL, PubMed and ABI/Inform within the recent five-year period to investigate the scientific evidence of the quality of action research studies in healthcare contexts. The review will be guided by Arksey and O'Malley’s five mandatory steps, which have been updated and published online by the Joanna Briggs Institute. The review will follow the PRISMA-ScR framework guidelines to ensure the standard of the methodological and reporting approaches are exemplary.

Conclusion: This paper outlines the protocol for an exploratory scoping review to systematically and comprehensively map out the evidence as to whether action research studies demonstrate explicitly how the essential factors of a comprehensive framework of action research are upheld. The review will summarise the evidence on the quality of current action research studies in healthcare. It is anticipated that the findings will inform future action researchers in designing studies to ensure the quality of the studies is upheld.

Introduction

The utility and versatility of action research has brought about an increase in the level of interest, application and usage of action research in a variety of healthcare contexts in the past 20 years as healthcare systems all over the world undergo transformative change. Part of this greater interest and usage relates to the fact that in this context of change, action research aims at both taking action in a particular system in response to particular forces, and therefore brings a change, and creating knowledge about that action that provides actionable knowledge for other health care organisations. Another possible explanation for the increased application of action research in healthcare is its participatory paradigm, which invites participants to be both embedded and reflexive in the creation of collaborative learning and of actionable knowledge where research is with, rather than on or for, people. Action research therefore attempts to link theory and practice, thinking and doing, achieving both practical and research objectives ( Casey & Coghlan, 2021 ), and therefore provides a means of improvement by narrowing the gap between researching and implementing.

A wide range of terms are used to describe action research approaches such that it is now considered as a family of approaches ( Casey et al. , 2018 ), the common approaches being appreciative inquiry, co-operative inquiry, collaborative research, participatory action research and, more recently, co-design to name a few. The action research process involves engagement in cycles of action and reflection and always involves two goals: to address a real issue and to contribute to science through the elaboration or development of theory. These are the dual imperatives of action research. The creation of actionable knowledge is the most rigorous test of knowledge creation. Action research embodies a set of principles and outlines definite steps on how to engage in the research process. These steps are cyclical and spiral in nature and iterative and some argue that two overlapping spirals of activity exist, where one spiral depicts the research activity and the other depicts the work interest ( Casey & Coghlan, 2021 ). This facilitates the researchers giving adequate consideration to their own learning and knowledge as well as to all the relevant issues prior to engaging in research activity. Thus the researchers are engaging in developmental reflexivity and adopt a critical stance on their role throughout the action research project ( Bradbury et al. , 2019 ). According to Reason & Bradbury (2008:4) action research “is a living, emergent process that cannot be predetermined but changes and develops as those who engage deepen their understanding of the issues to be addressed and develop their capacity as co-inquirers both individually and collectively’.

In one of his seminal articles on action research, Lewin (1947: 147-8) describes how action research begins and develops.

• Planned social action (intentional change) usually emerges from a more or less vague “idea”. An objective appears in the cloudy form of a dream or a wish, which can hardly be called a goal. To become real, to be able to steer action, something has to be developed which might be called a plan... It should be noted that the development of a general plan presupposes “fact-finding” … On the basis of this fact-finding the goal is somewhat altered…Accepting a plan does not mean that all further steps are fixed by a decision; only in regard to the first step should be the decision be final. After the first action is carried out, the second step should not follow automatically. Instead it should be investigated whether the effect of the first action was actually what was expected.

Keeping a regular check on how the inquiry process is unfolding and checking for the presence of any underlying assumptions with the group is essential ( Coughlan & Coghlan, 2002 ).

Participation as a core value in action research

Action research has its focus on generating solutions to practical problems and its ability to empower practitioners because of its emphasis on participation as a core strategy ( Reason, 1994 ) and implementation of action ( Meyer, 2000 ). Active participation in a research study can be more threatening than participation in the traditional designs and there are increasing calls for evidence of impact and outcome from participation and co-design ( Palmer, 2020 ). Participation in healthcare is rendered complex by the different lens through which different professional groups view and understand problems through different disciplinary lens while patients must engage with these against a hierarchical background. Participation has thus been described as a multivoiced process ( Hynes et al. , 2012 ) and embraces multiple ways of knowing-for-action ( Bradbury et al. , 2019 ). Indeed, there is an expectation that participation from participants and co-researchers increases involvement and commitment and sustainability of action research outcomes; however, the measurement of this has been inconsistent and almost absent. In some published accounts we have seen the inclusion of stakeholders in interviews and focus groups only, as essentially constituting the entire spectrum of the core values of participation and inclusion of the quality of the co-researcher partnership. Indeed, there is an expectation that participation from participants and co-researchers increases involvement and commitment and sustainability of action research outcomes; however, the measurement of this has been inconsistent and almost absent. For this reason we have opted to look at the degree of participation that is evidenced in the empirical studies using the ladder of citizen participation ( Arnstein, 1969 ), which although based on citizen participation in model cities in a department of housing and urban development, can form the basis for a more enlightened conversation about the type of participation evident in the selected studies. The ladder is organised into three major positions on citizen participation along a continuum of citizen control based on the concept of ability to exercise power. The ladder has eight rungs, with the bottom two rungs representing non-participation labelled as ‘therapy’ and ‘manipulation’. The middle section is labelled ‘degrees of tokenism’ and includes three rungs called ‘informing’, ‘consultation’ and ‘placation’ in ascending order. The higher rungs indicate three degrees of citizen power ranging from ‘partnership’ at the lower level, followed by ‘delegated power’, and ‘citizen control’ as the top rung of the ladder.

Indicating the quality of action research studies

Action researchers do not make claims “so much on the grounds of scientific rigour, as in terms of generating findings which are useful and relevant" ( Hart & Bond, 1995:13 ). Baskerville & Wood-Harper (1996:238) suggest that “where the change is successful, the evaluation must critically question whether the undertaken action, among the myriad routine and non-routine organisational actions, was the sole cause of success”. According to Waterman (1998:104) , “the validity of action research projects does not reside in their degree to effect change but in their attempt to improve people’s lives...through voluntary participation and cooperation”. According to Ellis & Kiely (2000:87) the validity of the research is based on the degree to which the research is useful and relevant in precipitating discussion about improvement. Morrison & Lilford (2001:441) suggest the search for knowledge can be considered scientific “if it leads to the development of theories that are explanatory: telling us why things happen as they do in that domain, comprehensively applying to the whole domain, and falsifiability: giving rise, via testable hypotheses, to empirical predictions whose persistent failure counts against the theory”. They conclude action research offers explanatory theories, and that these theories can be falsified. However, they attest these theories are context dependent and hence cannot be comprehensive.

Reason & Bradbury (2001) prefer to use the term quality rather than validity in action research as a means of expressing and judging rigour. They suggest the judge for quality action research be on the basis that it develops a praxis of relational knowledge and knowledge generation reflects co-operation between the researcher and participants. These authors also ask whether the research is guided by a reflexive concern for practical outcomes and whether the process of iterative reflection as part of the change process is readily apparent. Therefore, action research must acknowledge multiple realities and a plurality of knowing evident in the inclusion of various perspectives from the participants without attempting to find an agreed common perspective. The significance of the project is also an important aspect of quality criteria and whether the project results in new developments such as sustainable change. A framework that expresses these essential relationships between context, quality of relationships, has a dual focus on the inquiry and implementation process as well as concern for the actionability and contribution to knowledge creation was selected. Such a framework exists in the work of Shani & Pasmore (1985/2016) who suggest that the necessary evidence of the quality of their action research studies can be achieved by: i) demonstrating knowledge of the practical and academic context of the project; ii) creating participants as co-researchers; iii) enacting cycles of action and reflection as the project is being implemented and knowledge is being co-generated; and iv) generating outcomes that are both practical for the delivery of healthcare system in the project and robust for theory development about change in healthcare. A comprehensive framework of the action research process is presented by Coghlan & Shani (2018) in terms of four factors. These four factors comprise a comprehensive framework as they capture the core of action research and the complex cause-and-effect dynamics within each factor and between the factors.

• The context of the action research project refers to individual, organisational, environmental and research/consulting factors. Individual factors include ideas about the direction of the project and how collaboration can be assured. From an organisational perspective, the availability and use of resources influence of previous history, and the level of congruence between these impacts on the capability for participation. Environmental factors in the global and local economies provide the larger context in which action research takes place. An example of research factors which can have relevance relates to previous research experience and involvement a similar area or topic.
• The quality of relationship refers to trust, shared language, concern for each other and equality of influence between members and researchers.
• Refers to the dual focus on both the inquiry process and the implementation process as they are being undertaken.
• The dual outcomes of action research are some level of organisational improvement and learning and the creation of actionable knowledge.

These four factors will be used for the scoping review. A scoping review is the most appropriate approach to the literature as it provides an overview of studies, clarifying concepts or contextual information ( Pollack et al ., 2021 ) and it can be used to investigate research conduct ( Munn et al ., 2018 ; Tricco et al ., 2018 ). This aim of this scoping review is to explore whether action research studies demonstrate explicitly how the essential factors of a comprehensive framework of action research are upheld. This is a scoping protocol for this review. Our protocol includes information about the aims and objectives of the scoping review, inclusion and exclusion criteria, search strategy and data extraction.

The protocol for the scoping review is based on the work of Arksey & O' Malley (2005) . In addition, The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) ( Tricco et al ., 2018 ) will guide the process. This reporting guideline is consistent with the JBI guidance for scoping reviews, ( Tricco et al. , 2018 ). These steps are:

• Stage 1 : Identifying the research question

Stage 2: Identifying relevant studies

Stage 3: study selection, stage 4: charting the data.

• Stage 5: Collating, summarising and reporting results

Stage 1: Identifying the research question

The review aims to identify, explore and map the literature regarding the application of action research in either individual, group or organisational domains in any healthcare context.

Objectives . To identify the degree to which the core factors of a comprehensive framework of action research ( Coghlan & Shani, 2018 ) are manifestly addressed. The following are the key objectives of the scoping review:

• 1. To identify the degree to which knowledge of the practical and academic context are addressed.
• 2. To establish how the quality of co-researcher relationships was maintained.
• 3. To determine how the quality of the enactment of cycles of action and reflection in the present tense were implemented.
• 4. To identify how the dual outcomes of co-generated actionable knowledge are addressed.

Review question . How do researchers address the core factors of a comprehensive framework of action research in healthcare?

According to Peters et al. (2020b) , a scoping review question should include elements of the PCC mnemonic (population, concept, and context) and it will also inform inclusion and exclusion criteria and consequently the literature search strategy.

• Population - healthcare professionals and patients and clients who work or come into contact with health care in any context of primary, secondary or tertiary settings
• Concept - studies that use an action research approach in healthcare contexts.
• Context - any part of health service in any country that people (healthcare professionals and patients or clients) interact with.

Inclusion and exclusion criteria . The inclusion and exclusion criteria for study selection are summarised in Table 1 .

The research team will undertake a comprehensive search of the literature within the following databases:

• CINAHL - Nursing and Allied Health (CINAHL Plus)
• PubMed – Biomedical and life sciences database
• ABI/Inform (ProQuest) – Business database

Using the three terms of population, concept, context (PCC framework) an initial search will be deployed on CINAHL Plus. This will be followed by the use of search terms to identify key text words used to address the major concepts of population (healthcare professionals and patients), concept (action research studies in healthcare), and context (any part of health service that people interact with). Alternative terms for each of the concepts will also be included. Then each search strategy will be adapted for each database (PubMed and ABI/Inform) and specific Boolean operators, truncation markers, and MeSH headings where necessary will be used. The inclusion of the expertise of a research librarian is invaluable at an early stage of completing a scoping review ( McGowan et al. , 2020 ); the research team worked with the expert university librarian in designing and refining the search strategy and will be included as part of the research team. We noted that while the data bases CINAHL and ABI/Inform claim to include the Action Research Journal, this is not the case. Therefore, we plan to do a manual search of the Action Research Journal and also of Educational Action Research for the past 5 years in keeping with the timeframe of the search strategy for this protocol. Sample search terms for the PubMed database are outlined in Table 2 .

Key search concepts . The key search concepts for this study are ‘people in healthcare’ AND ‘action research’ AND ‘healthcare environment’.

Endnote 9 will be used to manage the identified studies from the three databases. All duplicates will be removed within Endnote 9. The process of screening the titles and abstracts will be undertaken by four members of the team and non-relevant studies based on the criteria will be removed with the assistance of Rayyan (an online open access screening software tool). To resolve any conflict regarding the difference of opinion and in the ‘undecided, category, one member from the other team will chair a discussion to reach a consensus agreement. To improve reliability of the reviewers, a short training programme on the use of Rayyan will be undertaken by all the researchers and a small percentage of the studies will be screened independently by each reviewer and then a comparison will be reviewed for consistency of decision-making between the members. The full text article review will be undertaken by the same researchers using the same iterative steps, with the researchers reviewing the full texts independently.

We will do a small pilot study to test the use of the criteria and these can be modified as the researchers become more familiar with a sample of the studies to determine if further information is required of if fields are not relevant and should be removed. Data will be extracted using specified criteria and evidence from this process will be presented in table format.

Four members of the research team will be involved in extracting the data using a charting table created by the researchers within Microsoft Excel 365 software, as suggested by Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) ( Peters et al. , 2017 ). The extracted data will be selected and mapped according to the specified inclusion of evidence of the quality of the action research study. Using the elements identified in the PCC framework as a guide, the initial fields will include:

• Citation details (authors and year of publication)
• Study title
• Geographical location of study
• Study setting/context
• Methodology/design – Type of action research
• ▪ knowledge of the practical and academic context,
• ▪ quality of co-researcher relationships,
• ▪ quality of the enactment of cycles of action and reflection in the present tense,
• ▪ the dual outcomes of co-generated actionable knowledge.
• ▪ Citizen power (citizen control, delegated power, partnership)
• ▪ Tokenism (placation, consultation, informing)
• ▪ Non-participation (therapy, manipulation)

Stage 5: Collating, summarising and reporting the results

Data will be collected using Microsoft Excel 365 software to capture relevant information for each study by the same four members of the research team and it will be available to all members via a shared drive. Studies will be mapped according to their contextual setting, geographical location, and year of publication. All authors will discuss the data prior to analysis, which will be a descriptive analysis, as recommended by Peters et al. (2020a) . A narrative tabular report will be produced summarising the extracted data concerning the objectives and scoping review question. The PRISMA-ScR guidelines will be used for reporting the outcomes of the review ( Tricco et al. , 2018 ). Quality appraisal of the studies will not be conducted as there is no extant quality appraisal check list for action research studies. This review aims to explore how the core factors of a comprehensive framework of action research are addressed in each study and our findings will contribute to future development of such a check list for the application of action research principles in action research studies in general. The review will consist of analysis of the evidence of the quality of their action research on: i) demonstrating knowledge of the practical and academic context of the project; ii) creating participants as co-researchers; iii) enacting cycles of action and reflection in the present tense as the project is being implemented and knowledge is being co-generated; and iv) generating outcomes that are both practical for the delivery of healthcare system in the project and robust for theory development about change in healthcare. Full adherence to ethical procedures in disseminating information will be undertaken by the research team. The report will be presented both orally and through publications at national and international conferences.

Study status

At the time of publication of this protocol, preliminary database searches had commenced.

This scoping review protocol has been designed in line with the latest evidence. Action research studies were carried out in diverse healthcare settings and there are many ways of undertaking action research in healthcare that consider the research purpose, aims and theoretical underpinnings. However, there is a need demonstrate the quality of the action research studies by choosing a coherent theoretical guidance provided by scholars. This will enable the transformation and impact of action research in healthcare settings to be evaluated and thereby improve the quality of action research studies in healthcare. The results extracted from this scoping review will identify how the quality element is addressed in current empirical action research studies within a recent five-year period. Based on the outcome of the review knowledge gaps and deficits will be uncovered in relation to demonstrating adherence to quality criteria when undertaking action research studies. A Quality check list for action research studies may be generated similar in format to extant reporting criteria for qualitative and quantitative studies. Findings from the review will be shared widely with healthcare personnel both locally and nationally and also through presentations and publication of the review in an open-access journal.

Data availability

[version 2; peer review: 2 approved]

Funding Statement

The author(s) declared that no grants were involved in supporting this work.

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Reviewer response for version 2

Victor friedman.

1 Action Research Center for Social Justice, Max Stern Yezreel Valley College, Emek Yezreel, Israel

The changes to the article are sufficient.

Is the study design appropriate for the research question?

Is the rationale for, and objectives of, the study clearly described?

Are sufficient details of the methods provided to allow replication by others?

Are the datasets clearly presented in a useable and accessible format?

Not applicable

Reviewer Expertise:

Action research, organisational learning, social inclusion, conflict transformation, action science, field theory

I confirm that I have read this submission and believe that I have an appropriate level of expertise to confirm that it is of an acceptable scientific standard.

UCD Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, Ireland

Many thanks for your considered response that has helped us to improve our publication.

Kind Regards

Reviewer response for version 1

This paper presents a protocol for a scoping literature review of how action research in health care deals with quality. It argues for the need for such a review, which promises to provide a deeper, more nuanced, and empirically based understanding of what quality actually means in action research in the health care field. The paper reviews a small sample of the literature on quality in action research and points to a variety of criteria/factors for evaluating/generating quality. For their scoping review, the authors choose “four factors” for quality as presented by Coghlan and Shani (2018). The paper then presents the research question, the methods to be used for (1) identifying and selecting relevant studies to be reviewed, (2) charting the data, and (3) collating, summarising and reporting the results.

The paper makes a convincing argument for the need for such a scoping review and prevents a very clear, systematic, and well though-out protocol that should generate very useful and important knowledge. 

At the same time, I question the authors choice of a single, pre-existing framework for quality (Coghlan & Shani,2018). After presenting a number of varying approaches to quality, they write, “a connection that integrates their different forms of expertise and different initial frameworks is needed in order to generate a third framework of the local situation.” However, the authors do not actually explain how these frameworks are integrated within the Coghlan and Shani (2018) model. It seems to me that some things are missing or need to be developed a bit more:

•  Making a specific reference to the issues of reflection/reflexivity, which are featured in the literature reviewed earlier in the paper. These are not the same processes, though they related, and are an important component of action research.
• The Coghlan & Shani (2018) framework is very heavily oriented towards action research in organizations. Making a specific reference to the issue of “community,” which is a central domain in health care but is missing from the “Context” part of the framework. It does appear in Table 2. Regarding Table 2, I would add “Community Based (Participatory Research (CBPR or CBR)” to “Concept” (studies that use an action research approach in healthcare contexts).
•  “Participation” appears as a separate category outside of the framework. However, participation is applied implied in the Coghlan and Shani (2018) model by “equality of influence between members and researchers” in the “quality of relationships” (factor 3). How does quality of relationships differ from participation? Perhaps participation cold be incorporated into the framework or the framework crafted to reduce redundancy.
• I suggest that the authors take a look at the quality choice-points for action oriented research for transformation suggested by the (Bradbury et al, 2020), https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1476750320904562 . )

To sum up, Coghlan & Shani (2018) provides a very good foundation on which to build the integrative model, but a bit more work needs to be done to make it integrative and more comprehensive.

There are also a number of editing issues:

•  The authors write: “Therefore, a connection that integrates their different forms of expertise and different initial frameworks is needed in order to generate a third framework of the local situation.”  What is meant by “third framework”? What were the first and second frameworks? 
• The very next sentence says  “Such a frame exists”.  This confuses a bit more since “framework” and “frame” are not the same
• The authors write: “Individual factors include ideas about the direction and collaboration can be assured.”  There is something missing in this sentence. I think it should say “ideas about how the…” but that’s up to the authors
• The authors write: “From an organisational perspective, the availability and use of resources influence of previous history, and the level of congruence between these impacts on the capability for participation.” There is something missing in this sentence as well. I think there needs to be a comma: “use of resources, influence of previous history and…"
• The authors write: “Based on the outcome of the review knowledge gaps and deficits will be uncovered in relation to demonstrating adherence to quality criteria when undertaking action research studies.” I think there is a missing comma and should read: Based on the outcome of the review, knowledge gaps…

Finally, I want to raise a thought I had about the relationship between action research and academic writing that may, or may not, be relevant to this project and the protocol. Understandably, the authors exclude research that lacks “information and descriptions on the core tenets of action research”. However, as an associate editor of the Acton Research Journal and a frequent reviewer of action research papers, I am often struck by the difference between doing action research and writing about it for academic journals. Unlike normal research, which can be planned and controlled to a high degree, action research, by its very nature as a participative process, is emergent and responsive to changing situations, rarely actually occurring according to “plan.” Sometimes I read manuscripts that are based on quite interesting and high quality action research, but this research is not framed or presented in a way that meets academic standards. Writing up action research for academic journals is often a post hoc reflective process that addresses the question “What did we learn from this project? What kind of knowledge did we produce?” In my experience, many manuscripts fail because they do not adequately frame a question, connect with the relevant literature, or adequately present the data to back up their claims. All of these problems have more to with writing than with the action research itself. In this respect, I believe that this project looks not so much at the quality of action research as the quality of action research as reflected in academic writing. I am not sure how important this distinction is, if at all, but I did want to put it on the table.

I wish the authors all the best in carrying out this important study.

action research, organisational learning, social inclusion, conflict transformation, action science, field theory

I confirm that I have read this submission and believe that I have an appropriate level of expertise to confirm that it is of an acceptable scientific standard, however I have significant reservations, as outlined above.

Brendan McCormack

1 Centre for Person-Centred Practice Research, Queen Margaret University Edinburgh, Musselburgh, UK

Thanks for asking me to review this protocol. It is great to see this work happen and it is to be welcomed, as it is needed. Generally the protocol is really thorough and is very clear and should produce some good outcomes.

A couple of comments:

• The focus is interesting to me. You clearly set out what 'counts' as action research, which includes 'co-design work in healthcare' (much of which I struggle to see as research at all!) but don't include transformational and transformative research which is usually theoretically and philosophically robust. That seems odd!
• The databases to be searched don't include any educational or social science databases. Whilst I completely appreciate that health related publications in these databases are few, they are however places that health-focused action research gets published. I think these need to be included.
• The methods are clearly set out and are very thorough. However I found the stage 5 of the methods to be 'vague' and I am not completely sure what the processes are and how standardised they are. I think these could be further clarified.
• The dissemination ideas lack creativity and contemporary (non-academic publication focused) methods. These should be further considered.

Well done and I wish you luck with the project.

action research. participatory research. person-centred research. nursing and healthcare research

education, community-building and change

What is action research and how do we do it?

In this article, we explore the development of some different traditions of action research and provide an introductory guide to the literature.

Contents : what is action research ·  origins · the decline and rediscovery of action research · undertaking action research · conclusion · further reading · how to cite this article . see, also: research for practice ., what is action research.

In the literature, discussion of action research tends to fall into two distinctive camps. The British tradition – especially that linked to education – tends to view action research as research-oriented toward the enhancement of direct practice. For example, Carr and Kemmis provide a classic definition:

Action research is simply a form of self-reflective enquiry undertaken by participants in social situations in order to improve the rationality and justice of their own practices, their understanding of these practices, and the situations in which the practices are carried out (Carr and Kemmis 1986: 162).

Many people are drawn to this understanding of action research because it is firmly located in the realm of the practitioner – it is tied to self-reflection. As a way of working it is very close to the notion of reflective practice coined by Donald Schön (1983).

The second tradition, perhaps more widely approached within the social welfare field – and most certainly the broader understanding in the USA is of action research as ‘the systematic collection of information that is designed to bring about social change’ (Bogdan and Biklen 1992: 223). Bogdan and Biklen continue by saying that its practitioners marshal evidence or data to expose unjust practices or environmental dangers and recommend actions for change. In many respects, for them, it is linked into traditions of citizen’s action and community organizing. The practitioner is actively involved in the cause for which the research is conducted. For others, it is such commitment is a necessary part of being a practitioner or member of a community of practice. Thus, various projects designed to enhance practice within youth work, for example, such as the detached work reported on by Goetschius and Tash (1967) could be talked of as action research.

Kurt Lewin is generally credited as the person who coined the term ‘action research’:

The research needed for social practice can best be characterized as research for social management or social engineering. It is a type of action-research, a comparative research on the conditions and effects of various forms of social action, and research leading to social action. Research that produces nothing but books will not suffice (Lewin 1946, reproduced in Lewin 1948: 202-3)

His approach involves a spiral of steps, ‘each of which is composed of a circle of planning, action and fact-finding about the result of the action’ ( ibid. : 206). The basic cycle involves the following:

This is how Lewin describes the initial cycle:

The first step then is to examine the idea carefully in the light of the means available. Frequently more fact-finding about the situation is required. If this first period of planning is successful, two items emerge: namely, “an overall plan” of how to reach the objective and secondly, a decision in regard to the first step of action. Usually this planning has also somewhat modified the original idea. ( ibid. : 205)

The next step is ‘composed of a circle of planning, executing, and reconnaissance or fact-finding for the purpose of evaluating the results of the second step, and preparing the rational basis for planning the third step, and for perhaps modifying again the overall plan’ ( ibid. : 206). What we can see here is an approach to research that is oriented to problem-solving in social and organizational settings, and that has a form that parallels Dewey’s conception of learning from experience.

The approach, as presented, does take a fairly sequential form – and it is open to a literal interpretation. Following it can lead to practice that is ‘correct’ rather than ‘good’ – as we will see. It can also be argued that the model itself places insufficient emphasis on analysis at key points. Elliott (1991: 70), for example, believed that the basic model allows those who use it to assume that the ‘general idea’ can be fixed in advance, ‘that “reconnaissance” is merely fact-finding, and that “implementation” is a fairly straightforward process’. As might be expected there was some questioning as to whether this was ‘real’ research. There were questions around action research’s partisan nature – the fact that it served particular causes.

The decline and rediscovery of action research

Action research did suffer a decline in favour during the 1960s because of its association with radical political activism (Stringer 2007: 9). There were, and are, questions concerning its rigour, and the training of those undertaking it. However, as Bogdan and Biklen (1992: 223) point out, research is a frame of mind – ‘a perspective that people take toward objects and activities’. Once we have satisfied ourselves that the collection of information is systematic and that any interpretations made have a proper regard for satisfying truth claims, then much of the critique aimed at action research disappears. In some of Lewin’s earlier work on action research (e.g. Lewin and Grabbe 1945), there was a tension between providing a rational basis for change through research, and the recognition that individuals are constrained in their ability to change by their cultural and social perceptions, and the systems of which they are a part. Having ‘correct knowledge’ does not of itself lead to change, attention also needs to be paid to the ‘matrix of cultural and psychic forces’ through which the subject is constituted (Winter 1987: 48).

Subsequently, action research has gained a significant foothold both within the realm of community-based, and participatory action research; and as a form of practice-oriented to the improvement of educative encounters (e.g. Carr and Kemmis 1986).

Exhibit 1: Stringer on community-based action research

A fundamental premise of community-based action research is that it commences with an interest in the problems of a group, a community, or an organization. Its purpose is to assist people in extending their understanding of their situation and thus resolving problems that confront them….

Community-based action research is always enacted through an explicit set of social values. In modern, democratic social contexts, it is seen as a process of inquiry that has the following characteristics:

• It is democratic , enabling the participation of all people.

• It is equitable , acknowledging people’s equality of worth.

• It is liberating , providing freedom from oppressive, debilitating conditions.

• It is life enhancing , enabling the expression of people’s full human potential.

(Stringer 1999: 9-10)

Undertaking action research

As Thomas (2017: 154) put it, the central aim is change, ‘and the emphasis is on problem-solving in whatever way is appropriate’. It can be seen as a conversation rather more than a technique (McNiff et. al. ). It is about people ‘thinking for themselves and making their own choices, asking themselves what they should do and accepting the consequences of their own actions’ (Thomas 2009: 113).

The action research process works through three basic phases:

Look -building a picture and gathering information. When evaluating we define and describe the problem to be investigated and the context in which it is set. We also describe what all the participants (educators, group members, managers etc.) have been doing.

Think – interpreting and explaining. When evaluating we analyse and interpret the situation. We reflect on what participants have been doing. We look at areas of success and any deficiencies, issues or problems.

Act – resolving issues and problems. In evaluation we judge the worth, effectiveness, appropriateness, and outcomes of those activities. We act to formulate solutions to any problems. (Stringer 1999: 18; 43-44;160)

The use of action research to deepen and develop classroom practice has grown into a strong tradition of practice (one of the first examples being the work of Stephen Corey in 1949). For some, there is an insistence that action research must be collaborative and entail groupwork.

Action research is a form of collective self-reflective enquiry undertaken by participants in social situations in order to improve the rationality and justice of their own social or educational practices, as well as their understanding of those practices and the situations in which the practices are carried out… The approach is only action research when it is collaborative, though it is important to realise that action research of the group is achieved through the critically examined action of individual group members. (Kemmis and McTaggart 1988: 5-6)

Just why it must be collective is open to some question and debate (Webb 1996), but there is an important point here concerning the commitments and orientations of those involved in action research.

One of the legacies Kurt Lewin left us is the ‘action research spiral’ – and with it there is the danger that action research becomes little more than a procedure. It is a mistake, according to McTaggart (1996: 248) to think that following the action research spiral constitutes ‘doing action research’. He continues, ‘Action research is not a ‘method’ or a ‘procedure’ for research but a series of commitments to observe and problematize through practice a series of principles for conducting social enquiry’. It is his argument that Lewin has been misunderstood or, rather, misused. When set in historical context, while Lewin does talk about action research as a method, he is stressing a contrast between this form of interpretative practice and more traditional empirical-analytic research. The notion of a spiral may be a useful teaching device – but it is all too easy to slip into using it as the template for practice (McTaggart 1996: 249).

Further reading

This select, annotated bibliography has been designed to give a flavour of the possibilities of action research and includes some useful guides to practice. As ever, if you have suggestions about areas or specific texts for inclusion, I’d like to hear from you.

Explorations of action research

Atweh, B., Kemmis, S. and Weeks, P. (eds.) (1998) Action Research in Practice: Partnership for Social Justice in Education, London: Routledge. Presents a collection of stories from action research projects in schools and a university. The book begins with theme chapters discussing action research, social justice and partnerships in research. The case study chapters cover topics such as: school environment – how to make a school a healthier place to be; parents – how to involve them more in decision-making; students as action researchers; gender – how to promote gender equity in schools; writing up action research projects.

Carr, W. and Kemmis, S. (1986) Becoming Critical. Education, knowledge and action research , Lewes: Falmer. Influential book that provides a good account of ‘action research’ in education. Chapters on teachers, researchers and curriculum; the natural scientific view of educational theory and practice; the interpretative view of educational theory and practice; theory and practice – redefining the problem; a critical approach to theory and practice; towards a critical educational science; action research as critical education science; educational research, educational reform and the role of the profession.

Carson, T. R. and Sumara, D. J. (ed.) (1997) Action Research as a Living Practice , New York: Peter Lang. 140 pages. Book draws on a wide range of sources to develop an understanding of action research. Explores action research as a lived practice, ‘that asks the researcher to not only investigate the subject at hand but, as well, to provide some account of the way in which the investigation both shapes and is shaped by the investigator.

Dadds, M. (1995) Passionate Enquiry and School Development. A story about action research , London: Falmer. 192 + ix pages. Examines three action research studies undertaken by a teacher and how they related to work in school – how she did the research, the problems she experienced, her feelings, the impact on her feelings and ideas, and some of the outcomes. In his introduction, John Elliot comments that the book is ‘the most readable, thoughtful, and detailed study of the potential of action-research in professional education that I have read’.

Ghaye, T. and Wakefield, P. (eds.) CARN Critical Conversations. Book one: the role of the self in action , Bournemouth: Hyde Publications. 146 + xiii pages. Collection of five pieces from the Classroom Action Research Network. Chapters on: dialectical forms; graduate medical education – research’s outer limits; democratic education; managing action research; writing up.

McNiff, J. (1993) Teaching as Learning: An Action Research Approach , London: Routledge. Argues that educational knowledge is created by individual teachers as they attempt to express their own values in their professional lives. Sets out familiar action research model: identifying a problem, devising, implementing and evaluating a solution and modifying practice. Includes advice on how working in this way can aid the professional development of action researcher and practitioner.

Quigley, B. A. and Kuhne, G. W. (eds.) (1997) Creating Practical Knowledge Through Action Research, San Fransisco: Jossey Bass. Guide to action research that outlines the action research process, provides a project planner, and presents examples to show how action research can yield improvements in six different settings, including a hospital, a university and a literacy education program.

Plummer, G. and Edwards, G. (eds.) CARN Critical Conversations. Book two: dimensions of action research – people, practice and power , Bournemouth: Hyde Publications. 142 + xvii pages. Collection of five pieces from the Classroom Action Research Network. Chapters on: exchanging letters and collaborative research; diary writing; personal and professional learning – on teaching and self-knowledge; anti-racist approaches; psychodynamic group theory in action research.

Whyte, W. F. (ed.) (1991) Participatory Action Research , Newbury Park: Sage. 247 pages. Chapters explore the development of participatory action research and its relation with action science and examine its usages in various agricultural and industrial settings

Zuber-Skerritt, O. (ed.) (1996) New Directions in Action Research , London; Falmer Press. 266 + xii pages. A useful collection that explores principles and procedures for critical action research; problems and suggested solutions; and postmodernism and critical action research.

Action research guides

Coghlan, D. and Brannick, D. (2000) Doing Action Research in your own Organization, London: Sage. 128 pages. Popular introduction. Part one covers the basics of action research including the action research cycle, the role of the ‘insider’ action researcher and the complexities of undertaking action research within your own organisation. Part two looks at the implementation of the action research project (including managing internal politics and the ethics and politics of action research). New edition due late 2004.

Elliot, J. (1991) Action Research for Educational Change , Buckingham: Open University Press. 163 + x pages Collection of various articles written by Elliot in which he develops his own particular interpretation of action research as a form of teacher professional development. In some ways close to a form of ‘reflective practice’. Chapter 6, ‘A practical guide to action research’ – builds a staged model on Lewin’s work and on developments by writers such as Kemmis.

Johnson, A. P. (2007) A short guide to action research 3e. Allyn and Bacon. Popular step by step guide for master’s work.

Macintyre, C. (2002) The Art of the Action Research in the Classroom , London: David Fulton. 138 pages. Includes sections on action research, the role of literature, formulating a research question, gathering data, analysing data and writing a dissertation. Useful and readable guide for students.

McNiff, J., Whitehead, J., Lomax, P. (2003) You and Your Action Research Project , London: Routledge. Practical guidance on doing an action research project.Takes the practitioner-researcher through the various stages of a project. Each section of the book is supported by case studies

Stringer, E. T. (2007) Action Research: A handbook for practitioners 3e , Newbury Park, ca.: Sage. 304 pages. Sets community-based action research in context and develops a model. Chapters on information gathering, interpretation, resolving issues; legitimacy etc. See, also Stringer’s (2003) Action Research in Education , Prentice-Hall.

Winter, R. (1989) Learning From Experience. Principles and practice in action research , Lewes: Falmer Press. 200 + 10 pages. Introduces the idea of action research; the basic process; theoretical issues; and provides six principles for the conduct of action research. Includes examples of action research. Further chapters on from principles to practice; the learner’s experience; and research topics and personal interests.

Action research in informal education

Usher, R., Bryant, I. and Johnston, R. (1997) Adult Education and the Postmodern Challenge. Learning beyond the limits , London: Routledge. 248 + xvi pages. Has some interesting chapters that relate to action research: on reflective practice; changing paradigms and traditions of research; new approaches to research; writing and learning about research.

Other references

Bogdan, R. and Biklen, S. K. (1992) Qualitative Research For Education , Boston: Allyn and Bacon.

Goetschius, G. and Tash, J. (1967) Working with the Unattached , London: Routledge and Kegan Paul.

McTaggart, R. (1996) ‘Issues for participatory action researchers’ in O. Zuber-Skerritt (ed.) New Directions in Action Research , London: Falmer Press.

McNiff, J., Lomax, P. and Whitehead, J. (2003) You and Your Action Research Project 2e. London: Routledge.

Thomas, G. (2017). How to do your Research Project. A guide for students in education and applied social sciences . 3e. London: Sage.

Acknowledgements : spiral by Michèle C. | flickr ccbyncnd2 licence

How to cite this article : Smith, M. K. (1996; 2001, 2007, 2017) What is action research and how do we do it?’, The encyclopedia of pedagogy and informal education. [ https://infed.org/mobi/action-research/ . Retrieved: insert date] .

© Mark K. Smith 1996; 2001, 2007, 2017

Last Updated on December 7, 2020 by infed.org

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• What Is Action Research? | Definition & Examples

What Is Action Research? | Definition & Examples

Published on 27 January 2023 by Tegan George . Revised on 21 April 2023.

Table of contents

Types of action research, action research models, examples of action research, action research vs. traditional research, advantages and disadvantages of action research, frequently asked questions about action research.

There are 2 common types of action research: participatory action research and practical action research.

• Participatory action research emphasises that participants should be members of the community being studied, empowering those directly affected by outcomes of said research. In this method, participants are effectively co-researchers, with their lived experiences considered formative to the research process.
• Practical action research focuses more on how research is conducted and is designed to address and solve specific issues.

Both types of action research are more focused on increasing the capacity and ability of future practitioners than contributing to a theoretical body of knowledge.

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Action research is often reflected in 3 action research models: operational (sometimes called technical), collaboration, and critical reflection.

• Operational (or technical) action research is usually visualised like a spiral following a series of steps, such as “planning → acting → observing → reflecting.”
• Collaboration action research is more community-based, focused on building a network of similar individuals (e.g., college professors in a given geographic area) and compiling learnings from iterated feedback cycles.
• Critical reflection action research serves to contextualise systemic processes that are already ongoing (e.g., working retroactively to analyse existing school systems by questioning why certain practices were put into place and developed the way they did).

Action research is often used in fields like education because of its iterative and flexible style.

After the information was collected, the students were asked where they thought ramps or other accessibility measures would be best utilised, and the suggestions were sent to school administrators. Example: Practical action research Science teachers at your city’s high school have been witnessing a year-over-year decline in standardised test scores in chemistry. In seeking the source of this issue, they studied how concepts are taught in depth, focusing on the methods, tools, and approaches used by each teacher.

Action research differs sharply from other types of research in that it seeks to produce actionable processes over the course of the research rather than contributing to existing knowledge or drawing conclusions from datasets. In this way, action research is formative , not summative , and is conducted in an ongoing, iterative way.

As such, action research is different in purpose, context, and significance and is a good fit for those seeking to implement systemic change.

Action research comes with advantages and disadvantages.

• Action research is highly adaptable , allowing researchers to mould their analysis to their individual needs and implement practical individual-level changes.
• Action research provides an immediate and actionable path forward for solving entrenched issues, rather than suggesting complicated, longer-term solutions rooted in complex data.
• Done correctly, action research can be very empowering , informing social change and allowing participants to effect that change in ways meaningful to their communities.

Disadvantages

• Due to their flexibility, action research studies are plagued by very limited generalisability  and are very difficult to replicate . They are often not considered theoretically rigorous due to the power the researcher holds in drawing conclusions.
• Action research can be complicated to structure in an ethical manner . Participants may feel pressured to participate or to participate in a certain way.
• Action research is at high risk for research biases such as selection bias , social desirability bias , or other types of cognitive biases .

Action research is conducted in order to solve a particular issue immediately, while case studies are often conducted over a longer period of time and focus more on observing and analyzing a particular ongoing phenomenon.

Action research is focused on solving a problem or informing individual and community-based knowledge in a way that impacts teaching, learning, and other related processes. It is less focused on contributing theoretical input, instead producing actionable input.

Action research is particularly popular with educators as a form of systematic inquiry because it prioritizes reflection and bridges the gap between theory and practice. Educators are able to simultaneously investigate an issue as they solve it, and the method is very iterative and flexible.

A cycle of inquiry is another name for action research . It is usually visualized in a spiral shape following a series of steps, such as “planning → acting → observing → reflecting.”

Sources for this article

We strongly encourage students to use sources in their work. You can cite our article (APA Style) or take a deep dive into the articles below.

George, T. (2023, April 21). What Is Action Research? | Definition & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved 2 April 2024, from https://www.scribbr.co.uk/research-methods/action-research-cycle/

Cohen, L., Manion, L., & Morrison, K. (2017). Research methods in education (8th edition). Routledge.

Naughton, G. M. (2001).  Action research (1st edition). Routledge.

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1 What is Action Research for Classroom Teachers?

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS

• What is the nature of action research?
• How does action research develop in the classroom?
• What models of action research work best for your classroom?
• What are the epistemological, ontological, theoretical underpinnings of action research?

Educational research provides a vast landscape of knowledge on topics related to teaching and learning, curriculum and assessment, students’ cognitive and affective needs, cultural and socio-economic factors of schools, and many other factors considered viable to improving schools. Educational stakeholders rely on research to make informed decisions that ultimately affect the quality of schooling for their students. Accordingly, the purpose of educational research is to engage in disciplined inquiry to generate knowledge on topics significant to the students, teachers, administrators, schools, and other educational stakeholders. Just as the topics of educational research vary, so do the approaches to conducting educational research in the classroom. Your approach to research will be shaped by your context, your professional identity, and paradigm (set of beliefs and assumptions that guide your inquiry). These will all be key factors in how you generate knowledge related to your work as an educator.

Action research is an approach to educational research that is commonly used by educational practitioners and professionals to examine, and ultimately improve, their pedagogy and practice. In this way, action research represents an extension of the reflection and critical self-reflection that an educator employs on a daily basis in their classroom. When students are actively engaged in learning, the classroom can be dynamic and uncertain, demanding the constant attention of the educator. Considering these demands, educators are often only able to engage in reflection that is fleeting, and for the purpose of accommodation, modification, or formative assessment. Action research offers one path to more deliberate, substantial, and critical reflection that can be documented and analyzed to improve an educator’s practice.

Purpose of Action Research

As one of many approaches to educational research, it is important to distinguish the potential purposes of action research in the classroom. This book focuses on action research as a method to enable and support educators in pursuing effective pedagogical practices by transforming the quality of teaching decisions and actions, to subsequently enhance student engagement and learning. Being mindful of this purpose, the following aspects of action research are important to consider as you contemplate and engage with action research methodology in your classroom:

• Action research is a process for improving educational practice. Its methods involve action, evaluation, and reflection. It is a process to gather evidence to implement change in practices.
• Action research is participative and collaborative. It is undertaken by individuals with a common purpose.
• Action research is situation and context-based.
• Action research develops reflection practices based on the interpretations made by participants.
• Knowledge is created through action and application.
• Action research can be based in problem-solving, if the solution to the problem results in the improvement of practice.
• Action research is iterative; plans are created, implemented, revised, then implemented, lending itself to an ongoing process of reflection and revision.
• In action research, findings emerge as action develops and takes place; however, they are not conclusive or absolute, but ongoing (Koshy, 2010, pgs. 1-2).

In thinking about the purpose of action research, it is helpful to situate action research as a distinct paradigm of educational research. I like to think about action research as part of the larger concept of living knowledge. Living knowledge has been characterized as “a quest for life, to understand life and to create… knowledge which is valid for the people with whom I work and for myself” (Swantz, in Reason & Bradbury, 2001, pg. 1). Why should educators care about living knowledge as part of educational research? As mentioned above, action research is meant “to produce practical knowledge that is useful to people in the everyday conduct of their lives and to see that action research is about working towards practical outcomes” (Koshy, 2010, pg. 2). However, it is also about:

creating new forms of understanding, since action without reflection and understanding is blind, just as theory without action is meaningless. The participatory nature of action research makes it only possible with, for and by persons and communities, ideally involving all stakeholders both in the questioning and sense making that informs the research, and in the action, which is its focus. (Reason & Bradbury, 2001, pg. 2)

In an effort to further situate action research as living knowledge, Jean McNiff reminds us that “there is no such ‘thing’ as ‘action research’” (2013, pg. 24). In other words, action research is not static or finished, it defines itself as it proceeds. McNiff’s reminder characterizes action research as action-oriented, and a process that individuals go through to make their learning public to explain how it informs their practice. Action research does not derive its meaning from an abstract idea, or a self-contained discovery – action research’s meaning stems from the way educators negotiate the problems and successes of living and working in the classroom, school, and community.

While we can debate the idea of action research, there are people who are action researchers, and they use the idea of action research to develop principles and theories to guide their practice. Action research, then, refers to an organization of principles that guide action researchers as they act on shared beliefs, commitments, and expectations in their inquiry.

Reflection and the Process of Action Research

When an individual engages in reflection on their actions or experiences, it is typically for the purpose of better understanding those experiences, or the consequences of those actions to improve related action and experiences in the future. Reflection in this way develops knowledge around these actions and experiences to help us better regulate those actions in the future. The reflective process generates new knowledge regularly for classroom teachers and informs their classroom actions.

Unfortunately, the knowledge generated by educators through the reflective process is not always prioritized among the other sources of knowledge educators are expected to utilize in the classroom. Educators are expected to draw upon formal types of knowledge, such as textbooks, content standards, teaching standards, district curriculum and behavioral programs, etc., to gain new knowledge and make decisions in the classroom. While these forms of knowledge are important, the reflective knowledge that educators generate through their pedagogy is the amalgamation of these types of knowledge enacted in the classroom. Therefore, reflective knowledge is uniquely developed based on the action and implementation of an educator’s pedagogy in the classroom. Action research offers a way to formalize the knowledge generated by educators so that it can be utilized and disseminated throughout the teaching profession.

Research is concerned with the generation of knowledge, and typically creating knowledge related to a concept, idea, phenomenon, or topic. Action research generates knowledge around inquiry in practical educational contexts. Action research allows educators to learn through their actions with the purpose of developing personally or professionally. Due to its participatory nature, the process of action research is also distinct in educational research. There are many models for how the action research process takes shape. I will share a few of those here. Each model utilizes the following processes to some extent:

• Plan a change;
• Take action to enact the change;
• Observe the process and consequences of the change;
• Reflect on the process and consequences;
• Act, observe, & reflect again and so on.

Figure 1.1 Basic action research cycle

There are many other models that supplement the basic process of action research with other aspects of the research process to consider. For example, figure 1.2 illustrates a spiral model of action research proposed by Kemmis and McTaggart (2004). The spiral model emphasizes the cyclical process that moves beyond the initial plan for change. The spiral model also emphasizes revisiting the initial plan and revising based on the initial cycle of research:

Figure 1.2 Interpretation of action research spiral, Kemmis and McTaggart (2004, p. 595)

Other models of action research reorganize the process to emphasize the distinct ways knowledge takes shape in the reflection process. O’Leary’s (2004, p. 141) model, for example, recognizes that the research may take shape in the classroom as knowledge emerges from the teacher’s observations. O’Leary highlights the need for action research to be focused on situational understanding and implementation of action, initiated organically from real-time issues:

Figure 1.3 Interpretation of O’Leary’s cycles of research, O’Leary (2000, p. 141)

Lastly, Macintyre’s (2000, p. 1) model, offers a different characterization of the action research process. Macintyre emphasizes a messier process of research with the initial reflections and conclusions as the benchmarks for guiding the research process. Macintyre emphasizes the flexibility in planning, acting, and observing stages to allow the process to be naturalistic. Our interpretation of Macintyre process is below:

Figure 1.4 Interpretation of the action research cycle, Macintyre (2000, p. 1)

We believe it is important to prioritize the flexibility of the process, and encourage you to only use these models as basic guides for your process. Your process may look similar, or you may diverge from these models as you better understand your students, context, and data.

Definitions of Action Research and Examples

At this point, it may be helpful for readers to have a working definition of action research and some examples to illustrate the methodology in the classroom. Bassey (1998, p. 93) offers a very practical definition and describes “action research as an inquiry which is carried out in order to understand, to evaluate and then to change, in order to improve educational practice.” Cohen and Manion (1994, p. 192) situate action research differently, and describe action research as emergent, writing:

essentially an on-the-spot procedure designed to deal with a concrete problem located in an immediate situation. This means that ideally, the step-by-step process is constantly monitored over varying periods of time and by a variety of mechanisms (questionnaires, diaries, interviews and case studies, for example) so that the ensuing feedback may be translated into modifications, adjustment, directional changes, redefinitions, as necessary, so as to bring about lasting benefit to the ongoing process itself rather than to some future occasion.

Lastly, Koshy (2010, p. 9) describes action research as:

a constructive inquiry, during which the researcher constructs his or her knowledge of specific issues through planning, acting, evaluating, refining and learning from the experience. It is a continuous learning process in which the researcher learns and also shares the newly generated knowledge with those who may benefit from it.

These definitions highlight the distinct features of action research and emphasize the purposeful intent of action researchers to improve, refine, reform, and problem-solve issues in their educational context. To better understand the distinctness of action research, these are some examples of action research topics:

Examples of Action Research Topics

• Flexible seating in 4th grade classroom to increase effective collaborative learning.
• Structured homework protocols for increasing student achievement.
• Developing a system of formative feedback for 8th grade writing.
• Using music to stimulate creative writing.
• Weekly brown bag lunch sessions to improve responses to PD from staff.
• Using exercise balls as chairs for better classroom management.

Action Research in Theory

Action research-based inquiry in educational contexts and classrooms involves distinct participants – students, teachers, and other educational stakeholders within the system. All of these participants are engaged in activities to benefit the students, and subsequently society as a whole. Action research contributes to these activities and potentially enhances the participants’ roles in the education system. Participants’ roles are enhanced based on two underlying principles:

• communities, schools, and classrooms are sites of socially mediated actions, and action research provides a greater understanding of self and new knowledge of how to negotiate these socially mediated environments;
• communities, schools, and classrooms are part of social systems in which humans interact with many cultural tools, and action research provides a basis to construct and analyze these interactions.

In our quest for knowledge and understanding, we have consistently analyzed human experience over time and have distinguished between types of reality. Humans have constantly sought “facts” and “truth” about reality that can be empirically demonstrated or observed.

Social systems are based on beliefs, and generally, beliefs about what will benefit the greatest amount of people in that society. Beliefs, and more specifically the rationale or support for beliefs, are not always easy to demonstrate or observe as part of our reality. Take the example of an English Language Arts teacher who prioritizes argumentative writing in her class. She believes that argumentative writing demonstrates the mechanics of writing best among types of writing, while also providing students a skill they will need as citizens and professionals. While we can observe the students writing, and we can assess their ability to develop a written argument, it is difficult to observe the students’ understanding of argumentative writing and its purpose in their future. This relates to the teacher’s beliefs about argumentative writing; we cannot observe the real value of the teaching of argumentative writing. The teacher’s rationale and beliefs about teaching argumentative writing are bound to the social system and the skills their students will need to be active parts of that system. Therefore, our goal through action research is to demonstrate the best ways to teach argumentative writing to help all participants understand its value as part of a social system.

The knowledge that is conveyed in a classroom is bound to, and justified by, a social system. A postmodernist approach to understanding our world seeks knowledge within a social system, which is directly opposed to the empirical or positivist approach which demands evidence based on logic or science as rationale for beliefs. Action research does not rely on a positivist viewpoint to develop evidence and conclusions as part of the research process. Action research offers a postmodernist stance to epistemology (theory of knowledge) and supports developing questions and new inquiries during the research process. In this way action research is an emergent process that allows beliefs and decisions to be negotiated as reality and meaning are being constructed in the socially mediated space of the classroom.

Theorizing Action Research for the Classroom

All research, at its core, is for the purpose of generating new knowledge and contributing to the knowledge base of educational research. Action researchers in the classroom want to explore methods of improving their pedagogy and practice. The starting place of their inquiry stems from their pedagogy and practice, so by nature the knowledge created from their inquiry is often contextually specific to their classroom, school, or community. Therefore, we should examine the theoretical underpinnings of action research for the classroom. It is important to connect action research conceptually to experience; for example, Levin and Greenwood (2001, p. 105) make these connections:

• Action research is context bound and addresses real life problems.
• Action research is inquiry where participants and researchers cogenerate knowledge through collaborative communicative processes in which all participants’ contributions are taken seriously.
• The meanings constructed in the inquiry process lead to social action or these reflections and action lead to the construction of new meanings.
• The credibility/validity of action research knowledge is measured according to whether the actions that arise from it solve problems (workability) and increase participants’ control over their own situation.

Educators who engage in action research will generate new knowledge and beliefs based on their experiences in the classroom. Let us emphasize that these are all important to you and your work, as both an educator and researcher. It is these experiences, beliefs, and theories that are often discounted when more official forms of knowledge (e.g., textbooks, curriculum standards, districts standards) are prioritized. These beliefs and theories based on experiences should be valued and explored further, and this is one of the primary purposes of action research in the classroom. These beliefs and theories should be valued because they were meaningful aspects of knowledge constructed from teachers’ experiences. Developing meaning and knowledge in this way forms the basis of constructivist ideology, just as teachers often try to get their students to construct their own meanings and understandings when experiencing new ideas.  

Classroom Teachers Constructing their Own Knowledge

Most of you are probably at least minimally familiar with constructivism, or the process of constructing knowledge. However, what is constructivism precisely, for the purposes of action research? Many scholars have theorized constructivism and have identified two key attributes (Koshy, 2010; von Glasersfeld, 1987):

• Knowledge is not passively received, but actively developed through an individual’s cognition;
• Human cognition is adaptive and finds purpose in organizing the new experiences of the world, instead of settling for absolute or objective truth.

Considering these two attributes, constructivism is distinct from conventional knowledge formation because people can develop a theory of knowledge that orders and organizes the world based on their experiences, instead of an objective or neutral reality. When individuals construct knowledge, there are interactions between an individual and their environment where communication, negotiation and meaning-making are collectively developing knowledge. For most educators, constructivism may be a natural inclination of their pedagogy. Action researchers have a similar relationship to constructivism because they are actively engaged in a process of constructing knowledge. However, their constructions may be more formal and based on the data they collect in the research process. Action researchers also are engaged in the meaning making process, making interpretations from their data. These aspects of the action research process situate them in the constructivist ideology. Just like constructivist educators, action researchers’ constructions of knowledge will be affected by their individual and professional ideas and values, as well as the ecological context in which they work (Biesta & Tedder, 2006). The relations between constructivist inquiry and action research is important, as Lincoln (2001, p. 130) states:

much of the epistemological, ontological, and axiological belief systems are the same or similar, and methodologically, constructivists and action researchers work in similar ways, relying on qualitative methods in face-to-face work, while buttressing information, data and background with quantitative method work when necessary or useful.

While there are many links between action research and educators in the classroom, constructivism offers the most familiar and practical threads to bind the beliefs of educators and action researchers.  

Epistemology, Ontology, and Action Research

It is also important for educators to consider the philosophical stances related to action research to better situate it with their beliefs and reality. When researchers make decisions about the methodology they intend to use, they will consider their ontological and epistemological stances. It is vital that researchers clearly distinguish their philosophical stances and understand the implications of their stance in the research process, especially when collecting and analyzing their data. In what follows, we will discuss ontological and epistemological stances in relation to action research methodology.

Ontology, or the theory of being, is concerned with the claims or assumptions we make about ourselves within our social reality – what do we think exists, what does it look like, what entities are involved and how do these entities interact with each other (Blaikie, 2007). In relation to the discussion of constructivism, generally action researchers would consider their educational reality as socially constructed. Social construction of reality happens when individuals interact in a social system. Meaningful construction of concepts and representations of reality develop through an individual’s interpretations of others’ actions. These interpretations become agreed upon by members of a social system and become part of social fabric, reproduced as knowledge and beliefs to develop assumptions about reality. Researchers develop meaningful constructions based on their experiences and through communication. Educators as action researchers will be examining the socially constructed reality of schools. In the United States, many of our concepts, knowledge, and beliefs about schooling have been socially constructed over the last hundred years. For example, a group of teachers may look at why fewer female students enroll in upper-level science courses at their school. This question deals directly with the social construction of gender and specifically what careers females have been conditioned to pursue. We know this is a social construction in some school social systems because in other parts of the world, or even the United States, there are schools that have more females enrolled in upper level science courses than male students. Therefore, the educators conducting the research have to recognize the socially constructed reality of their school and consider this reality throughout the research process. Action researchers will use methods of data collection that support their ontological stance and clarify their theoretical stance throughout the research process.

Koshy (2010, p. 23-24) offers another example of addressing the ontological challenges in the classroom:

A teacher who was concerned with increasing her pupils’ motivation and enthusiasm for learning decided to introduce learning diaries which the children could take home. They were invited to record their reactions to the day’s lessons and what they had learnt. The teacher reported in her field diary that the learning diaries stimulated the children’s interest in her lessons, increased their capacity to learn, and generally improved their level of participation in lessons. The challenge for the teacher here is in the analysis and interpretation of the multiplicity of factors accompanying the use of diaries. The diaries were taken home so the entries may have been influenced by discussions with parents. Another possibility is that children felt the need to please their teacher. Another possible influence was that their increased motivation was as a result of the difference in style of teaching which included more discussions in the classroom based on the entries in the dairies.

Here you can see the challenge for the action researcher is working in a social context with multiple factors, values, and experiences that were outside of the teacher’s control. The teacher was only responsible for introducing the diaries as a new style of learning. The students’ engagement and interactions with this new style of learning were all based upon their socially constructed notions of learning inside and outside of the classroom. A researcher with a positivist ontological stance would not consider these factors, and instead might simply conclude that the dairies increased motivation and interest in the topic, as a result of introducing the diaries as a learning strategy.

Epistemology, or the theory of knowledge, signifies a philosophical view of what counts as knowledge – it justifies what is possible to be known and what criteria distinguishes knowledge from beliefs (Blaikie, 1993). Positivist researchers, for example, consider knowledge to be certain and discovered through scientific processes. Action researchers collect data that is more subjective and examine personal experience, insights, and beliefs.

Action researchers utilize interpretation as a means for knowledge creation. Action researchers have many epistemologies to choose from as means of situating the types of knowledge they will generate by interpreting the data from their research. For example, Koro-Ljungberg et al., (2009) identified several common epistemologies in their article that examined epistemological awareness in qualitative educational research, such as: objectivism, subjectivism, constructionism, contextualism, social epistemology, feminist epistemology, idealism, naturalized epistemology, externalism, relativism, skepticism, and pluralism. All of these epistemological stances have implications for the research process, especially data collection and analysis. Please see the table on pages 689-90, linked below for a sketch of these potential implications:

Again, Koshy (2010, p. 24) provides an excellent example to illustrate the epistemological challenges within action research:

A teacher of 11-year-old children decided to carry out an action research project which involved a change in style in teaching mathematics. Instead of giving children mathematical tasks displaying the subject as abstract principles, she made links with other subjects which she believed would encourage children to see mathematics as a discipline that could improve their understanding of the environment and historic events. At the conclusion of the project, the teacher reported that applicable mathematics generated greater enthusiasm and understanding of the subject.

The educator/researcher engaged in action research-based inquiry to improve an aspect of her pedagogy. She generated knowledge that indicated she had improved her students’ understanding of mathematics by integrating it with other subjects – specifically in the social and ecological context of her classroom, school, and community. She valued constructivism and students generating their own understanding of mathematics based on related topics in other subjects. Action researchers working in a social context do not generate certain knowledge, but knowledge that emerges and can be observed and researched again, building upon their knowledge each time.

Researcher Positionality in Action Research

In this first chapter, we have discussed a lot about the role of experiences in sparking the research process in the classroom. Your experiences as an educator will shape how you approach action research in your classroom. Your experiences as a person in general will also shape how you create knowledge from your research process. In particular, your experiences will shape how you make meaning from your findings. It is important to be clear about your experiences when developing your methodology too. This is referred to as researcher positionality. Maher and Tetreault (1993, p. 118) define positionality as:

Gender, race, class, and other aspects of our identities are markers of relational positions rather than essential qualities. Knowledge is valid when it includes an acknowledgment of the knower’s specific position in any context, because changing contextual and relational factors are crucial for defining identities and our knowledge in any given situation.

By presenting your positionality in the research process, you are signifying the type of socially constructed, and other types of, knowledge you will be using to make sense of the data. As Maher and Tetreault explain, this increases the trustworthiness of your conclusions about the data. This would not be possible with a positivist ontology. We will discuss positionality more in chapter 6, but we wanted to connect it to the overall theoretical underpinnings of action research.

Advantages of Engaging in Action Research in the Classroom

In the following chapters, we will discuss how action research takes shape in your classroom, and we wanted to briefly summarize the key advantages to action research methodology over other types of research methodology. As Koshy (2010, p. 25) notes, action research provides useful methodology for school and classroom research because:

Advantages of Action Research for the Classroom

• research can be set within a specific context or situation;
• researchers can be participants – they don’t have to be distant and detached from the situation;
• it involves continuous evaluation and modifications can be made easily as the project progresses;
• there are opportunities for theory to emerge from the research rather than always follow a previously formulated theory;
• the study can lead to open-ended outcomes;
• through action research, a researcher can bring a story to life.

Action Research Copyright © by J. Spencer Clark; Suzanne Porath; Julie Thiele; and Morgan Jobe is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Action and Evidence-Based Research

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This chapter proffers an overview of Action and Evidence-based research as two related yet distinct methods commonly used in the exploration of society. The purpose is to provide a summary and synthesis of the key dimensions of these methods from the viewpoint of tertiary literature. Establishing facts and reaching a conclusion are the leading objectives of research which is an integral part of development too. Action research, which emerged during the Second World War period, has assumed special significance due to its practicability and active focus on client participation. As a discourse, action research merges the principles and theories of research into practice, hence believed to produce remarkably relevant research findings. It attempts to create a synergy between the hypothesis developed at the diagnostic stage, and the actions are taken based on that assumption. This chapter examines the basic features, scope, and limitations of action research. Evidence-based research and its application in various practices and trades, most notably, in medicine and nursing professions, has become popular since the 1990s. The method essentially focuses on reliable, verifiable, and quality-assured research that can be used as ‘evidence’ in making informed and objective professional and/or policy decisions and judgments. Here, the emphasis is on the generation and use of evidence that draws on rigorous scientific research as distinct from and opposed to intuition, tradition, subjective unsubstantiated opinion, or other unsound bases of information. The discussion here includes definitional and classification issues, typical steps and process of application, and some illustrations.

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How to Write a Conclusion for Research Papers (with Examples)

The conclusion of a research paper is a crucial section that plays a significant role in the overall impact and effectiveness of your research paper. However, this is also the section that typically receives less attention compared to the introduction and the body of the paper. The conclusion serves to provide a concise summary of the key findings, their significance, their implications, and a sense of closure to the study. Discussing how can the findings be applied in real-world scenarios or inform policy, practice, or decision-making is especially valuable to practitioners and policymakers. The research paper conclusion also provides researchers with clear insights and valuable information for their own work, which they can then build on and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field.

The research paper conclusion should explain the significance of your findings within the broader context of your field. It restates how your results contribute to the existing body of knowledge and whether they confirm or challenge existing theories or hypotheses. Also, by identifying unanswered questions or areas requiring further investigation, your awareness of the broader research landscape can be demonstrated.

Remember to tailor the research paper conclusion to the specific needs and interests of your intended audience, which may include researchers, practitioners, policymakers, or a combination of these.

Table of Contents

What is a conclusion in a research paper, summarizing conclusion, editorial conclusion, externalizing conclusion, importance of a good research paper conclusion, how to write a conclusion for your research paper, research paper conclusion examples.

• How to write a research paper conclusion with Paperpal? 

Frequently Asked Questions

A conclusion in a research paper is the final section where you summarize and wrap up your research, presenting the key findings and insights derived from your study. The research paper conclusion is not the place to introduce new information or data that was not discussed in the main body of the paper. When working on how to conclude a research paper, remember to stick to summarizing and interpreting existing content. The research paper conclusion serves the following purposes: 1

• Warn readers of the possible consequences of not attending to the problem.
• Recommend specific course(s) of action.
• Restate key ideas to drive home the ultimate point of your research paper.
• Provide a “take-home” message that you want the readers to remember about your study.

Types of conclusions for research papers

In research papers, the conclusion provides closure to the reader. The type of research paper conclusion you choose depends on the nature of your study, your goals, and your target audience. I provide you with three common types of conclusions:

A summarizing conclusion is the most common type of conclusion in research papers. It involves summarizing the main points, reiterating the research question, and restating the significance of the findings. This common type of research paper conclusion is used across different disciplines.

An editorial conclusion is less common but can be used in research papers that are focused on proposing or advocating for a particular viewpoint or policy. It involves presenting a strong editorial or opinion based on the research findings and offering recommendations or calls to action.

An externalizing conclusion is a type of conclusion that extends the research beyond the scope of the paper by suggesting potential future research directions or discussing the broader implications of the findings. This type of conclusion is often used in more theoretical or exploratory research papers.

Align your conclusion’s tone with the rest of your research paper. Start Writing with Paperpal Now!  

The conclusion in a research paper serves several important purposes:

• Offers Implications and Recommendations : Your research paper conclusion is an excellent place to discuss the broader implications of your research and suggest potential areas for further study. It’s also an opportunity to offer practical recommendations based on your findings.
• Provides Closure : A good research paper conclusion provides a sense of closure to your paper. It should leave the reader with a feeling that they have reached the end of a well-structured and thought-provoking research project.
• Leaves a Lasting Impression : Writing a well-crafted research paper conclusion leaves a lasting impression on your readers. It’s your final opportunity to leave them with a new idea, a call to action, or a memorable quote.

Writing a strong conclusion for your research paper is essential to leave a lasting impression on your readers. Here’s a step-by-step process to help you create and know what to put in the conclusion of a research paper: 2

• Research Statement : Begin your research paper conclusion by restating your research statement. This reminds the reader of the main point you’ve been trying to prove throughout your paper. Keep it concise and clear.
• Key Points : Summarize the main arguments and key points you’ve made in your paper. Avoid introducing new information in the research paper conclusion. Instead, provide a concise overview of what you’ve discussed in the body of your paper.
• Address the Research Questions : If your research paper is based on specific research questions or hypotheses, briefly address whether you’ve answered them or achieved your research goals. Discuss the significance of your findings in this context.
• Significance : Highlight the importance of your research and its relevance in the broader context. Explain why your findings matter and how they contribute to the existing knowledge in your field.
• Implications : Explore the practical or theoretical implications of your research. How might your findings impact future research, policy, or real-world applications? Consider the “so what?” question.
• Future Research : Offer suggestions for future research in your area. What questions or aspects remain unanswered or warrant further investigation? This shows that your work opens the door for future exploration.
• Closing Thought : Conclude your research paper conclusion with a thought-provoking or memorable statement. This can leave a lasting impression on your readers and wrap up your paper effectively. Avoid introducing new information or arguments here.
• Proofread and Revise : Carefully proofread your conclusion for grammar, spelling, and clarity. Ensure that your ideas flow smoothly and that your conclusion is coherent and well-structured.

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Remember that a well-crafted research paper conclusion is a reflection of the strength of your research and your ability to communicate its significance effectively. It should leave a lasting impression on your readers and tie together all the threads of your paper. Now you know how to start the conclusion of a research paper and what elements to include to make it impactful, let’s look at a research paper conclusion sample.

How to write a research paper conclusion with Paperpal?

A research paper conclusion is not just a summary of your study, but a synthesis of the key findings that ties the research together and places it in a broader context. A research paper conclusion should be concise, typically around one paragraph in length. However, some complex topics may require a longer conclusion to ensure the reader is left with a clear understanding of the study’s significance. Paperpal, an AI writing assistant trusted by over 800,000 academics globally, can help you write a well-structured conclusion for your research paper. 

• Sign Up or Log In: Create a new Paperpal account or login with your details.  
• Navigate to Features : Once logged in, head over to the features’ side navigation pane. Click on Templates and you’ll find a suite of generative AI features to help you write better, faster.  
• Generate an outline: Under Templates, select ‘Outlines’. Choose ‘Research article’ as your document type.  
• Select your section: Since you’re focusing on the conclusion, select this section when prompted.  
• Choose your field of study: Identifying your field of study allows Paperpal to provide more targeted suggestions, ensuring the relevance of your conclusion to your specific area of research. 
• Provide a brief description of your study: Enter details about your research topic and findings. This information helps Paperpal generate a tailored outline that aligns with your paper’s content. 
• Generate the conclusion outline: After entering all necessary details, click on ‘generate’. Paperpal will then create a structured outline for your conclusion, to help you start writing and build upon the outline.  
• Write your conclusion: Use the generated outline to build your conclusion. The outline serves as a guide, ensuring you cover all critical aspects of a strong conclusion, from summarizing key findings to highlighting the research’s implications. 
• Refine and enhance: Paperpal’s ‘Make Academic’ feature can be particularly useful in the final stages. Select any paragraph of your conclusion and use this feature to elevate the academic tone, ensuring your writing is aligned to the academic journal standards. 

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The research paper conclusion is a crucial part of your paper as it provides the final opportunity to leave a strong impression on your readers. In the research paper conclusion, summarize the main points of your research paper by restating your research statement, highlighting the most important findings, addressing the research questions or objectives, explaining the broader context of the study, discussing the significance of your findings, providing recommendations if applicable, and emphasizing the takeaway message. The main purpose of the conclusion is to remind the reader of the main point or argument of your paper and to provide a clear and concise summary of the key findings and their implications. All these elements should feature on your list of what to put in the conclusion of a research paper to create a strong final statement for your work.

A strong conclusion is a critical component of a research paper, as it provides an opportunity to wrap up your arguments, reiterate your main points, and leave a lasting impression on your readers. Here are the key elements of a strong research paper conclusion: 1. Conciseness : A research paper conclusion should be concise and to the point. It should not introduce new information or ideas that were not discussed in the body of the paper. 2. Summarization : The research paper conclusion should be comprehensive enough to give the reader a clear understanding of the research’s main contributions. 3 . Relevance : Ensure that the information included in the research paper conclusion is directly relevant to the research paper’s main topic and objectives; avoid unnecessary details. 4 . Connection to the Introduction : A well-structured research paper conclusion often revisits the key points made in the introduction and shows how the research has addressed the initial questions or objectives. 5. Emphasis : Highlight the significance and implications of your research. Why is your study important? What are the broader implications or applications of your findings? 6 . Call to Action : Include a call to action or a recommendation for future research or action based on your findings.

The length of a research paper conclusion can vary depending on several factors, including the overall length of the paper, the complexity of the research, and the specific journal requirements. While there is no strict rule for the length of a conclusion, but it’s generally advisable to keep it relatively short. A typical research paper conclusion might be around 5-10% of the paper’s total length. For example, if your paper is 10 pages long, the conclusion might be roughly half a page to one page in length.

In general, you do not need to include citations in the research paper conclusion. Citations are typically reserved for the body of the paper to support your arguments and provide evidence for your claims. However, there may be some exceptions to this rule: 1. If you are drawing a direct quote or paraphrasing a specific source in your research paper conclusion, you should include a citation to give proper credit to the original author. 2. If your conclusion refers to or discusses specific research, data, or sources that are crucial to the overall argument, citations can be included to reinforce your conclusion’s validity.

The conclusion of a research paper serves several important purposes: 1. Summarize the Key Points 2. Reinforce the Main Argument 3. Provide Closure 4. Offer Insights or Implications 5. Engage the Reader. 6. Reflect on Limitations

Remember that the primary purpose of the research paper conclusion is to leave a lasting impression on the reader, reinforcing the key points and providing closure to your research. It’s often the last part of the paper that the reader will see, so it should be strong and well-crafted.

• Makar, G., Foltz, C., Lendner, M., & Vaccaro, A. R. (2018). How to write effective discussion and conclusion sections. Clinical spine surgery, 31(8), 345-346.
• Bunton, D. (2005). The structure of PhD conclusion chapters.  Journal of English for academic purposes ,  4 (3), 207-224.

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Experience the future of academic writing – Sign up to Paperpal and start writing for free!  

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• Ethical Research Practices For Research with Human Subjects

7 Ways to Improve Your Academic Writing Process

• Paraphrasing in Academic Writing: Answering Top Author Queries

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21 Action Research Examples (In Education)

Action research is an example of qualitative research . It refers to a wide range of evaluative or investigative methods designed to analyze professional practices and take action for improvement.

Commonly used in education, those practices could be related to instructional methods, classroom practices, or school organizational matters.

The creation of action research is attributed to Kurt Lewin , a German-American psychologist also considered to be the father of social psychology.

Gillis and Jackson (2002) offer a very concise definition of action research: “systematic collection and analysis of data for the purpose of taking action and making change” (p.264).

The methods of action research in education include:

• conducting in-class observations
• taking field notes
• surveying or interviewing teachers, administrators, or parents
• using audio and video recordings.

The goal is to identify problematic issues, test possible solutions, or simply carry-out continuous improvement.

There are several steps in action research : identify a problem, design a plan to resolve, implement the plan, evaluate effectiveness, reflect on results, make necessary adjustment and repeat the process.

Action Research Examples

• Digital literacy assessment and training: The school’s IT department conducts a survey on students’ digital literacy skills. Based on the results, a tailored training program is designed for different age groups.
• Library resources utilization study: The school librarian tracks the frequency and type of books checked out by students. The data is then used to curate a more relevant collection and organize reading programs.
• Extracurricular activities and student well-being: A team of teachers and counselors assess the impact of extracurricular activities on student mental health through surveys and interviews. Adjustments are made based on findings.
• Parent-teacher communication channels: The school evaluates the effectiveness of current communication tools (e.g., newsletters, apps) between teachers and parents. Feedback is used to implement a more streamlined system.
• Homework load evaluation: Teachers across grade levels assess the amount and effectiveness of homework given. Adjustments are made to ensure a balance between academic rigor and student well-being.
• Classroom environment and learning: A group of teachers collaborates to study the impact of classroom layouts and decorations on student engagement and comprehension. Changes are made based on the findings.
• Student feedback on curriculum content: High school students are surveyed about the relevance and applicability of their current curriculum. The feedback is then used to make necessary curriculum adjustments.
• Teacher mentoring and support: New teachers are paired with experienced mentors. Both parties provide feedback on the effectiveness of the mentoring program, leading to continuous improvements.
• Assessment of school transportation: The school board evaluates the efficiency and safety of school buses through surveys with students and parents. Necessary changes are implemented based on the results.
• Cultural sensitivity training: After conducting a survey on students’ cultural backgrounds and experiences, the school organizes workshops for teachers to promote a more inclusive classroom environment.
• Environmental initiatives and student involvement: The school’s eco-club assesses the school’s carbon footprint and waste management. They then collaborate with the administration to implement greener practices and raise environmental awareness.
• Working with parents through research: A school’s admin staff conduct focus group sessions with parents to identify top concerns.Those concerns will then be addressed and another session conducted at the end of the school year.
• Peer teaching observations and improvements: Kindergarten teachers observe other teachers handling class transition techniques to share best practices.
• PTA surveys and resultant action: The PTA of a district conducts a survey of members regarding their satisfaction with remote learning classes.The results will be presented to the school board for further action.
• Recording and reflecting: A school administrator takes video recordings of playground behavior and then plays them for the teachers. The teachers work together to formulate a list of 10 playground safety guidelines.
• Pre/post testing of interventions: A school board conducts a district wide evaluation of a STEM program by conducting a pre/post-test of students’ skills in computer programming.
• Focus groups of practitioners : The professional development needs of teachers are determined from structured focus group sessions with teachers and admin.
• School lunch research and intervention: A nutrition expert is hired to evaluate and improve the quality of school lunches.
• School nurse systematic checklist and improvements: The school nurse implements a bathroom cleaning checklist to monitor cleanliness after the results of a recent teacher survey revealed several issues.
• Wearable technologies for pedagogical improvements; Students wear accelerometers attached to their hips to gain a baseline measure of physical activity.The results will identify if any issues exist.
• School counselor reflective practice : The school counselor conducts a student survey on antisocial behavior and then plans a series of workshops for both teachers and parents.

Detailed Examples

1. cooperation and leadership.

A science teacher has noticed that her 9 th grade students do not cooperate with each other when doing group projects. There is a lot of arguing and battles over whose ideas will be followed.

So, she decides to implement a simple action research project on the matter. First, she conducts a structured observation of the students’ behavior during meetings. She also has the students respond to a short questionnaire regarding their notions of leadership.

She then designs a two-week course on group dynamics and leadership styles. The course involves learning about leadership concepts and practices . In another element of the short course, students randomly select a leadership style and then engage in a role-play with other students.

At the end of the two weeks, she has the students work on a group project and conducts the same structured observation as before. She also gives the students a slightly different questionnaire on leadership as it relates to the group.

She plans to analyze the results and present the findings at a teachers’ meeting at the end of the term.

2. Professional Development Needs

Two high-school teachers have been selected to participate in a 1-year project in a third-world country. The project goal is to improve the classroom effectiveness of local teachers. 

The two teachers arrive in the country and begin to plan their action research. First, they decide to conduct a survey of teachers in the nearby communities of the school they are assigned to.

The survey will assess their professional development needs by directly asking the teachers and administrators. After collecting the surveys, they analyze the results by grouping the teachers based on subject matter.

They discover that history and social science teachers would like professional development on integrating smartboards into classroom instruction. Math teachers would like to attend workshops on project-based learning, while chemistry teachers feel that they need equipment more than training.

The two teachers then get started on finding the necessary training experts for the workshops and applying for equipment grants for the science teachers.

3. Playground Accidents

The school nurse has noticed a lot of students coming in after having mild accidents on the playground. She’s not sure if this is just her perception or if there really is an unusual increase this year.  So, she starts pulling data from the records over the last two years. She chooses the months carefully and only selects data from the first three months of each school year.

She creates a chart to make the data more easily understood. Sure enough, there seems to have been a dramatic increase in accidents this year compared to the same period of time from the previous two years.

She shows the data to the principal and teachers at the next meeting. They all agree that a field observation of the playground is needed.

Those observations reveal that the kids are not having accidents on the playground equipment as originally suspected. It turns out that the kids are tripping on the new sod that was installed over the summer.

They examine the sod and observe small gaps between the slabs. Each gap is approximately 1.5 inches wide and nearly two inches deep. The kids are tripping on this gap as they run.

They then discuss possible solutions.

4. Differentiated Learning

Trying to use the same content, methods, and processes for all students is a recipe for failure. This is why modifying each lesson to be flexible is highly recommended. Differentiated learning allows the teacher to adjust their teaching strategy based on all the different personalities and learning styles they see in their classroom.

Of course, differentiated learning should undergo the same rigorous assessment that all teaching techniques go through. So, a third-grade social science teacher asks his students to take a simple quiz on the industrial revolution. Then, he applies differentiated learning to the lesson.

By creating several different learning stations in his classroom, he gives his students a chance to learn about the industrial revolution in a way that captures their interests. The different stations contain: short videos, fact cards, PowerPoints, mini-chapters, and role-plays.

At the end of the lesson, students get to choose how they demonstrate their knowledge. They can take a test, construct a PPT, give an oral presentation, or conduct a simulated TV interview with different characters.

During this last phase of the lesson, the teacher is able to assess if they demonstrate the necessary knowledge and have achieved the defined learning outcomes. This analysis will allow him to make further adjustments to future lessons.

5. Healthy Habits Program

While looking at obesity rates of students, the school board of a large city is shocked by the dramatic increase in the weight of their students over the last five years. After consulting with three companies that specialize in student physical health, they offer the companies an opportunity to prove their value.

So, the board randomly assigns each company to a group of schools. Starting in the next academic year, each company will implement their healthy habits program in 5 middle schools.

Preliminary data is collected at each school at the beginning of the school year. Each and every student is weighed, their resting heart rate, blood pressure and cholesterol are also measured.

After analyzing the data, it is found that the schools assigned to each of the three companies are relatively similar on all of these measures.

At the end of the year, data for students at each school will be collected again. A simple comparison of pre- and post-program measurements will be conducted. The company with the best outcomes will be selected to implement their program city-wide.

Action research is a great way to collect data on a specific issue, implement a change, and then evaluate the effects of that change. It is perhaps the most practical of all types of primary research .

Most likely, the results will be mixed. Some aspects of the change were effective, while other elements were not. That’s okay. This just means that additional modifications to the change plan need to be made, which is usually quite easy to do.

There are many methods that can be utilized, such as surveys, field observations , and program evaluations.

The beauty of action research is based in its utility and flexibility. Just about anyone in a school setting is capable of conducting action research and the information can be incredibly useful.

Aronson, E., & Patnoe, S. (1997). The jigsaw classroom: Building cooperation in the classroom (2nd ed.). New York: Addison Wesley Longman.

Gillis, A., & Jackson, W. (2002). Research Methods for Nurses: Methods and Interpretation . Philadelphia: F.A. Davis Company.

Lewin, K. (1946). Action research and minority problems. Journal of SocialIssues, 2 (4), 34-46.

Macdonald, C. (2012). Understanding participatory action research: A qualitative research methodology option. Canadian Journal of Action Research, 13 , 34-50. https://doi.org/10.33524/cjar.v13i2.37 Mertler, C. A. (2008). Action Research: Teachers as Researchers in the Classroom . London: Sage.

Dave Cornell (PhD)

Dr. Cornell has worked in education for more than 20 years. His work has involved designing teacher certification for Trinity College in London and in-service training for state governments in the United States. He has trained kindergarten teachers in 8 countries and helped businessmen and women open baby centers and kindergartens in 3 countries.

• Dave Cornell (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/dave-cornell-phd/ 25 Positive Punishment Examples
• Dave Cornell (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/dave-cornell-phd/ 25 Dissociation Examples (Psychology)
• Dave Cornell (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/dave-cornell-phd/ 15 Zone of Proximal Development Examples
• Dave Cornell (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/dave-cornell-phd/ Perception Checking: 15 Examples and Definition

Chris Drew (PhD)

This article was peer-reviewed and edited by Chris Drew (PhD). The review process on Helpful Professor involves having a PhD level expert fact check, edit, and contribute to articles. Reviewers ensure all content reflects expert academic consensus and is backed up with reference to academic studies. Dr. Drew has published over 20 academic articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education and holds a PhD in Education from ACU.

• Chris Drew (PhD) #molongui-disabled-link 25 Positive Punishment Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) #molongui-disabled-link 25 Dissociation Examples (Psychology)
• Chris Drew (PhD) #molongui-disabled-link 15 Zone of Proximal Development Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) #molongui-disabled-link Perception Checking: 15 Examples and Definition

2 thoughts on “21 Action Research Examples (In Education)”

Where can I capture this article in a better user-friendly format, since I would like to provide it to my students in a Qualitative Methods course at the University of Prince Edward Island? It is a good article, however, it is visually disjointed in its current format. Thanks, Dr. Frank T. Lavandier

Hi Dr. Lavandier,

I’ve emailed you a word doc copy that you can use and edit with your class.

Best, Chris.

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• Writing Tips

How to Conduct Action Research Effectively

4-minute read

• 20th April 2023

There are many ways to conduct research , and action research is a particularly useful method. If you’re wondering how you can conduct action research effectively, you’ve come to the right place! Check out our guide below.

What Is Action Research?

Action research is about more than just collecting data. It involves taking action, as the name suggests, based on the findings of the study. To conduct action research, you gather information and use it to enact some sort of change or improvement.

How To Conduct It Effectively

If you’re getting ready to do some action research yourself, take some time to prepare so that you end up with the best results. To set yourself up for success, follow these tips.

1.   Identify the Problem

Research aims to answer a question , fill a knowledge gap, or address an issue. Defining the problem clearly can help you come up with the most effective plan of action.

This isn’t always as straightforward as it may seem! Sometimes, the issue you’re initially looking into is actually the consequence of a deeper problem. For example, maybe lots of students in the same class are consistently receiving poor test grades. This could be due to many things, so to identify the problem, you might need to consider a variety of potential factors before narrowing in on your research plan.

2.   Plan To Collect the Most Relevant Data

Once you have a specific problem area to focus on, determine what kind of data will be most helpful for your study so you don’t waste time and resources gathering information you won’t end up using.

A key part of this step is making sure you have a reasonable source for the data and that it will be easy to collect . You should also have a system to keep it organized and recorded accurately.

3.   Examine Your Findings

Keeping your data organized, sort through it carefully , looking at one component at a time. Notice if any themes or patterns jump out from the numbers and make notes so you don’t lose track of them.

After doing this thoroughly, think about what variables you can change to generate more data. You may notice a strong connection between certain variables, but the underlying issue could still be elusive. By adjusting various factors, the root cause of the problem may start to reveal itself.

Find this useful?

Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.

Thinking about our example of students receiving poor grades, you might notice a correlation between poor performance and those who participate in extracurricular activities. The attributing factor(s), though, could be to do with the types of extracurricular activities, the number of them, or the day of the week they’re performed.

4.   Generate Action Ideas

Using your findings, come up with a list of potential actions that can be taken to solve the problem or make improvements. Write everything down, even ideas you’re not so sure about. Often, the most effective options pop up later on in the brainstorming process.

Next, pick out the most plausible and promising actions and try them out, one at a time. Be careful not to implement anything too permanent right away. Take note of how things change and what improvements are made. Once you’ve solidified the best plan of action, you can move on to making more permanent changes.

The Action Research Cycle

Once you’ve conducted action research effectively, you may notice other areas that could benefit from it. This is the beauty of action research – it’s ongoing and allows for constant improvement! Keep the cycle going by looking into more problem areas and using action research to address them.

Action research is a proactive and useful way of generating data about a problem and implementing changes to fix it. It’s often used in the classroom and other educational settings, so if you work in this field, action research could be particularly helpful to you.

If you’re writing a research paper , make sure you send your draft our way! Our editors will check it for spelling, grammar, referencing, and more. Try it out for free today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is action research used for.

Action research is especially helpful in educational settings. It’s used as a problem-solving method to improve the learning environment for students.

What are the main types of research?

There are many research methods, with some of the most common being qualitative, deductive, action, exploratory, and quantitative.

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Home » Research Paper Conclusion – Writing Guide and Examples

Research Paper Conclusion – Writing Guide and Examples

Table of Contents

Research Paper Conclusion

Definition:

A research paper conclusion is the final section of a research paper that summarizes the key findings, significance, and implications of the research. It is the writer’s opportunity to synthesize the information presented in the paper, draw conclusions, and make recommendations for future research or actions.

The conclusion should provide a clear and concise summary of the research paper, reiterating the research question or problem, the main results, and the significance of the findings. It should also discuss the limitations of the study and suggest areas for further research.

Parts of Research Paper Conclusion

The parts of a research paper conclusion typically include:

Restatement of the Thesis

The conclusion should begin by restating the thesis statement from the introduction in a different way. This helps to remind the reader of the main argument or purpose of the research.

Summary of Key Findings

The conclusion should summarize the main findings of the research, highlighting the most important results and conclusions. This section should be brief and to the point.

Implications and Significance

In this section, the researcher should explain the implications and significance of the research findings. This may include discussing the potential impact on the field or industry, highlighting new insights or knowledge gained, or pointing out areas for future research.

Limitations and Recommendations

It is important to acknowledge any limitations or weaknesses of the research and to make recommendations for how these could be addressed in future studies. This shows that the researcher is aware of the potential limitations of their work and is committed to improving the quality of research in their field.

Concluding Statement

The conclusion should end with a strong concluding statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. This could be a call to action, a recommendation for further research, or a final thought on the topic.

How to Write Research Paper Conclusion

Here are some steps you can follow to write an effective research paper conclusion:

• Restate the research problem or question: Begin by restating the research problem or question that you aimed to answer in your research. This will remind the reader of the purpose of your study.
• Summarize the main points: Summarize the key findings and results of your research. This can be done by highlighting the most important aspects of your research and the evidence that supports them.
• Discuss the implications: Discuss the implications of your findings for the research area and any potential applications of your research. You should also mention any limitations of your research that may affect the interpretation of your findings.
• Provide a conclusion : Provide a concise conclusion that summarizes the main points of your paper and emphasizes the significance of your research. This should be a strong and clear statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
• Offer suggestions for future research: Lastly, offer suggestions for future research that could build on your findings and contribute to further advancements in the field.

Remember that the conclusion should be brief and to the point, while still effectively summarizing the key findings and implications of your research.

Example of Research Paper Conclusion

Here’s an example of a research paper conclusion:

Conclusion :

In conclusion, our study aimed to investigate the relationship between social media use and mental health among college students. Our findings suggest that there is a significant association between social media use and increased levels of anxiety and depression among college students. This highlights the need for increased awareness and education about the potential negative effects of social media use on mental health, particularly among college students.

Despite the limitations of our study, such as the small sample size and self-reported data, our findings have important implications for future research and practice. Future studies should aim to replicate our findings in larger, more diverse samples, and investigate the potential mechanisms underlying the association between social media use and mental health. In addition, interventions should be developed to promote healthy social media use among college students, such as mindfulness-based approaches and social media detox programs.

Overall, our study contributes to the growing body of research on the impact of social media on mental health, and highlights the importance of addressing this issue in the context of higher education. By raising awareness and promoting healthy social media use among college students, we can help to reduce the negative impact of social media on mental health and improve the well-being of young adults.

Purpose of Research Paper Conclusion

The purpose of a research paper conclusion is to provide a summary and synthesis of the key findings, significance, and implications of the research presented in the paper. The conclusion serves as the final opportunity for the writer to convey their message and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

The conclusion should restate the research problem or question, summarize the main results of the research, and explain their significance. It should also acknowledge the limitations of the study and suggest areas for future research or action.

Overall, the purpose of the conclusion is to provide a sense of closure to the research paper and to emphasize the importance of the research and its potential impact. It should leave the reader with a clear understanding of the main findings and why they matter. The conclusion serves as the writer’s opportunity to showcase their contribution to the field and to inspire further research and action.

When to Write Research Paper Conclusion

The conclusion of a research paper should be written after the body of the paper has been completed. It should not be written until the writer has thoroughly analyzed and interpreted their findings and has written a complete and cohesive discussion of the research.

Before writing the conclusion, the writer should review their research paper and consider the key points that they want to convey to the reader. They should also review the research question, hypotheses, and methodology to ensure that they have addressed all of the necessary components of the research.

Once the writer has a clear understanding of the main findings and their significance, they can begin writing the conclusion. The conclusion should be written in a clear and concise manner, and should reiterate the main points of the research while also providing insights and recommendations for future research or action.

Characteristics of Research Paper Conclusion

The characteristics of a research paper conclusion include:

• Clear and concise: The conclusion should be written in a clear and concise manner, summarizing the key findings and their significance.
• Comprehensive: The conclusion should address all of the main points of the research paper, including the research question or problem, the methodology, the main results, and their implications.
• Future-oriented : The conclusion should provide insights and recommendations for future research or action, based on the findings of the research.
• Impressive : The conclusion should leave a lasting impression on the reader, emphasizing the importance of the research and its potential impact.
• Objective : The conclusion should be based on the evidence presented in the research paper, and should avoid personal biases or opinions.
• Unique : The conclusion should be unique to the research paper and should not simply repeat information from the introduction or body of the paper.

Advantages of Research Paper Conclusion

The advantages of a research paper conclusion include:

• Summarizing the key findings : The conclusion provides a summary of the main findings of the research, making it easier for the reader to understand the key points of the study.
• Emphasizing the significance of the research: The conclusion emphasizes the importance of the research and its potential impact, making it more likely that readers will take the research seriously and consider its implications.
• Providing recommendations for future research or action : The conclusion suggests practical recommendations for future research or action, based on the findings of the study.
• Providing closure to the research paper : The conclusion provides a sense of closure to the research paper, tying together the different sections of the paper and leaving a lasting impression on the reader.
• Demonstrating the writer’s contribution to the field : The conclusion provides the writer with an opportunity to showcase their contribution to the field and to inspire further research and action.

Limitations of Research Paper Conclusion

While the conclusion of a research paper has many advantages, it also has some limitations that should be considered, including:

• I nability to address all aspects of the research: Due to the limited space available in the conclusion, it may not be possible to address all aspects of the research in detail.
• Subjectivity : While the conclusion should be objective, it may be influenced by the writer’s personal biases or opinions.
• Lack of new information: The conclusion should not introduce new information that has not been discussed in the body of the research paper.
• Lack of generalizability: The conclusions drawn from the research may not be applicable to other contexts or populations, limiting the generalizability of the study.
• Misinterpretation by the reader: The reader may misinterpret the conclusions drawn from the research, leading to a misunderstanding of the findings.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper

• 9. The Conclusion
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The conclusion is intended to help the reader understand why your research should matter to them after they have finished reading the paper. A conclusion is not merely a summary of the main topics covered or a re-statement of your research problem, but a synthesis of key points derived from the findings of your study and, if applicable, where you recommend new areas for future research. For most college-level research papers, two or three well-developed paragraphs is sufficient for a conclusion, although in some cases, more paragraphs may be required in describing the key findings and their significance.

Conclusions. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Conclusions. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University.

Importance of a Good Conclusion

A well-written conclusion provides you with important opportunities to demonstrate to the reader your understanding of the research problem. These include:

• Presenting the last word on the issues you raised in your paper . Just as the introduction gives a first impression to your reader, the conclusion offers a chance to leave a lasting impression. Do this, for example, by highlighting key findings in your analysis that advance new understanding about the research problem, that are unusual or unexpected, or that have important implications applied to practice.
• Summarizing your thoughts and conveying the larger significance of your study . The conclusion is an opportunity to succinctly re-emphasize  your answer to the "So What?" question by placing the study within the context of how your research advances past research about the topic.
• Identifying how a gap in the literature has been addressed . The conclusion can be where you describe how a previously identified gap in the literature [first identified in your literature review section] has been addressed by your research and why this contribution is significant.
• Demonstrating the importance of your ideas . Don't be shy. The conclusion offers an opportunity to elaborate on the impact and significance of your findings. This is particularly important if your study approached examining the research problem from an unusual or innovative perspective.
• Introducing possible new or expanded ways of thinking about the research problem . This does not refer to introducing new information [which should be avoided], but to offer new insight and creative approaches for framing or contextualizing the research problem based on the results of your study.

Bunton, David. “The Structure of PhD Conclusion Chapters.” Journal of English for Academic Purposes 4 (July 2005): 207–224; Conclusions. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Kretchmer, Paul. Twelve Steps to Writing an Effective Conclusion. San Francisco Edit, 2003-2008; Conclusions. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Assan, Joseph. "Writing the Conclusion Chapter: The Good, the Bad and the Missing." Liverpool: Development Studies Association (2009): 1-8.

Structure and Writing Style

I.  General Rules

The general function of your paper's conclusion is to restate the main argument . It reminds the reader of the strengths of your main argument(s) and reiterates the most important evidence supporting those argument(s). Do this by clearly summarizing the context, background, and necessity of pursuing the research problem you investigated in relation to an issue, controversy, or a gap found in the literature. However, make sure that your conclusion is not simply a repetitive summary of the findings. This reduces the impact of the argument(s) you have developed in your paper.

When writing the conclusion to your paper, follow these general rules:

• Present your conclusions in clear, concise language. Re-state the purpose of your study, then describe how your findings differ or support those of other studies and why [i.e., what were the unique, new, or crucial contributions your study made to the overall research about your topic?].
• Do not simply reiterate your findings or the discussion of your results. Provide a synthesis of arguments presented in the paper to show how these converge to address the research problem and the overall objectives of your study.
• Indicate opportunities for future research if you haven't already done so in the discussion section of your paper. Highlighting the need for further research provides the reader with evidence that you have an in-depth awareness of the research problem but that further investigations should take place beyond the scope of your investigation.

Consider the following points to help ensure your conclusion is presented well:

• If the argument or purpose of your paper is complex, you may need to summarize the argument for your reader.
• If, prior to your conclusion, you have not yet explained the significance of your findings or if you are proceeding inductively, use the end of your paper to describe your main points and explain their significance.
• Move from a detailed to a general level of consideration that returns the topic to the context provided by the introduction or within a new context that emerges from the data [this is opposite of the introduction, which begins with general discussion of the context and ends with a detailed description of the research problem]. 

The conclusion also provides a place for you to persuasively and succinctly restate the research problem, given that the reader has now been presented with all the information about the topic . Depending on the discipline you are writing in, the concluding paragraph may contain your reflections on the evidence presented. However, the nature of being introspective about the research you have conducted will depend on the topic and whether your professor wants you to express your observations in this way. If asked to think introspectively about the topics, do not delve into idle speculation. Being introspective means looking within yourself as an author to try and understand an issue more deeply, not to guess at possible outcomes or make up scenarios not supported by the evidence.

II.  Developing a Compelling Conclusion

Although an effective conclusion needs to be clear and succinct, it does not need to be written passively or lack a compelling narrative. Strategies to help you move beyond merely summarizing the key points of your research paper may include any of the following:

• If your essay deals with a critical, contemporary problem, warn readers of the possible consequences of not attending to the problem proactively.
• Recommend a specific course or courses of action that, if adopted, could address a specific problem in practice or in the development of new knowledge leading to positive change.
• Cite a relevant quotation or expert opinion already noted in your paper in order to lend authority and support to the conclusion(s) you have reached [a good source would be from your literature review].
• Explain the consequences of your research in a way that elicits action or demonstrates urgency in seeking change.
• Restate a key statistic, fact, or visual image to emphasize the most important finding of your paper.
• If your discipline encourages personal reflection, illustrate your concluding point by drawing from your own life experiences.
• Return to an anecdote, an example, or a quotation that you presented in your introduction, but add further insight derived from the findings of your study; use your interpretation of results from your study to recast it in new or important ways.
• Provide a "take-home" message in the form of a succinct, declarative statement that you want the reader to remember about your study.

III. Problems to Avoid

Failure to be concise Your conclusion section should be concise and to the point. Conclusions that are too lengthy often have unnecessary information in them. The conclusion is not the place for details about your methodology or results. Although you should give a summary of what was learned from your research, this summary should be relatively brief, since the emphasis in the conclusion is on the implications, evaluations, insights, and other forms of analysis that you make. Strategies for writing concisely can be found here .

Failure to comment on larger, more significant issues In the introduction, your task was to move from the general [the field of study] to the specific [the research problem]. However, in the conclusion, your task is to move from a specific discussion [your research problem] back to a general discussion framed around the implications and significance of your findings [i.e., how your research contributes new understanding or fills an important gap in the literature]. In short, the conclusion is where you should place your research within a larger context [visualize your paper as an hourglass--start with a broad introduction and review of the literature, move to the specific analysis and discussion, conclude with a broad summary of the study's implications and significance].

Failure to reveal problems and negative results Negative aspects of the research process should never be ignored. These are problems, deficiencies, or challenges encountered during your study. They should be summarized as a way of qualifying your overall conclusions. If you encountered negative or unintended results [i.e., findings that are validated outside the research context in which they were generated], you must report them in the results section and discuss their implications in the discussion section of your paper. In the conclusion, use negative results as an opportunity to explain their possible significance and/or how they may form the basis for future research.

Failure to provide a clear summary of what was learned In order to be able to discuss how your research fits within your field of study [and possibly the world at large], you need to summarize briefly and succinctly how it contributes to new knowledge or a new understanding about the research problem. This element of your conclusion may be only a few sentences long.

Failure to match the objectives of your research Often research objectives in the social and behavioral sciences change while the research is being carried out. This is not a problem unless you forget to go back and refine the original objectives in your introduction. As these changes emerge they must be documented so that they accurately reflect what you were trying to accomplish in your research [not what you thought you might accomplish when you began].

Resist the urge to apologize If you've immersed yourself in studying the research problem, you presumably should know a good deal about it [perhaps even more than your professor!]. Nevertheless, by the time you have finished writing, you may be having some doubts about what you have produced. Repress those doubts! Don't undermine your authority as a researcher by saying something like, "This is just one approach to examining this problem; there may be other, much better approaches that...." The overall tone of your conclusion should convey confidence to the reader about the study's validity and realiability.

Assan, Joseph. "Writing the Conclusion Chapter: The Good, the Bad and the Missing." Liverpool: Development Studies Association (2009): 1-8; Concluding Paragraphs. College Writing Center at Meramec. St. Louis Community College; Conclusions. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Conclusions. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Freedman, Leora  and Jerry Plotnick. Introductions and Conclusions. The Lab Report. University College Writing Centre. University of Toronto; Leibensperger, Summer. Draft Your Conclusion. Academic Center, the University of Houston-Victoria, 2003; Make Your Last Words Count. The Writer’s Handbook. Writing Center. University of Wisconsin Madison; Miquel, Fuster-Marquez and Carmen Gregori-Signes. “Chapter Six: ‘Last but Not Least:’ Writing the Conclusion of Your Paper.” In Writing an Applied Linguistics Thesis or Dissertation: A Guide to Presenting Empirical Research . John Bitchener, editor. (Basingstoke,UK: Palgrave Macmillan, 2010), pp. 93-105; Tips for Writing a Good Conclusion. Writing@CSU. Colorado State University; Kretchmer, Paul. Twelve Steps to Writing an Effective Conclusion. San Francisco Edit, 2003-2008; Writing Conclusions. Writing Tutorial Services, Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning. Indiana University; Writing: Considering Structure and Organization. Institute for Writing Rhetoric. Dartmouth College.

Writing Tip

Don't Belabor the Obvious!

Avoid phrases like "in conclusion...," "in summary...," or "in closing...." These phrases can be useful, even welcome, in oral presentations. But readers can see by the tell-tale section heading and number of pages remaining that they are reaching the end of your paper. You'll irritate your readers if you belabor the obvious.

Assan, Joseph. "Writing the Conclusion Chapter: The Good, the Bad and the Missing." Liverpool: Development Studies Association (2009): 1-8.

Another Writing Tip

New Insight, Not New Information!

Don't surprise the reader with new information in your conclusion that was never referenced anywhere else in the paper. This why the conclusion rarely has citations to sources. If you have new information to present, add it to the discussion or other appropriate section of the paper. Note that, although no new information is introduced, the conclusion, along with the discussion section, is where you offer your most "original" contributions in the paper; the conclusion is where you describe the value of your research, demonstrate that you understand the material that you’ve presented, and position your findings within the larger context of scholarship on the topic, including describing how your research contributes new insights to that scholarship.

Assan, Joseph. "Writing the Conclusion Chapter: The Good, the Bad and the Missing." Liverpool: Development Studies Association (2009): 1-8; Conclusions. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina.

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200+ List of Topics for Action Research in the Classroom

In the dynamic landscape of education, teachers are continually seeking innovative ways to enhance their teaching practices and improve student outcomes. Action research in the classroom is a powerful tool that allows educators to investigate and address specific challenges, leading to positive changes in teaching methods and learning experiences. 

Selecting the right topics from the list of topics for action research in the classroom is crucial for ensuring meaningful insights and improvements. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of action research in the classroom, the criteria for selecting impactful topics, and provide an extensive list of potential research areas.

Understanding: What is Action Research

Table of Contents

Action research is a reflective process that empowers teachers to systematically investigate and analyze their own teaching practices. Unlike traditional research, action research is conducted by educators within their own classrooms, emphasizing a collaborative and participatory approach. 

This method enables teachers to identify challenges, implement interventions, and assess the effectiveness of their actions.

How to Select Topics From List of Topics for Action Research in the Classroom

Choosing the right topic is the first step in the action research process. The selected topic should align with classroom goals, address students’ needs, be feasible to implement, and have the potential for positive impact. Teachers should consider the following criteria when selecting action research topics:

• Alignment with Classroom Goals and Objectives: The chosen topic should directly contribute to the overall goals and objectives of the classroom. Whether it’s improving student engagement, enhancing learning outcomes, or fostering a positive classroom environment, the topic should align with the broader educational context.
• Relevance to Students’ Needs and Challenges: Effective action research addresses the specific needs and challenges faced by students. Teachers should identify areas where students may be struggling or where improvement is needed, ensuring that the research directly impacts the learning experiences of the students.
• Feasibility and Practicality: The feasibility of the research is crucial. Teachers must choose topics that are practical to implement within the constraints of the classroom setting. This includes considering available resources, time constraints, and the level of support from school administrators.
• Potential for Positive Impact: The ultimate goal of action research is to bring about positive change. Teachers should carefully assess the potential impact of their research, aiming for improvements in teaching methods, student performance, or overall classroom dynamics.

List of Topics for Action Research in the Classroom

• Impact of Mindfulness Practices on Student Focus
• The Effectiveness of Peer Tutoring in Mathematics
• Strategies for Encouraging Critical Thinking in History Classes
• Using Gamification to Enhance Learning in Science
• Investigating the Impact of Flexible Seating Arrangements
• Assessing the Benefits of Project-Based Learning in Language Arts
• The Influence of Classroom Decor on Student Motivation
• Examining the Use of Learning Stations for Differentiation
• Implementing Reflective Journals to Enhance Writing Skills
• Exploring the Impact of Flipped Classroom Models
• Analyzing the Effects of Homework on Student Performance
• The Role of Positive Reinforcement in Classroom Behavior
• Investigating the Impact of Classroom Libraries on Reading Proficiency
• Strategies for Fostering a Growth Mindset in Students
• Assessing the Benefits of Cross-Curricular Integration
• Using Technology to Enhance Vocabulary Acquisition
• The Impact of Outdoor Learning on Student Engagement
• Investigating the Relationship Between Attendance and Academic Success
• The Role of Parental Involvement in Homework Completion
• Assessing the Impact of Classroom Rituals on Community Building
• Strategies for Increasing Student Participation in Discussions
• Exploring the Influence of Classroom Lighting on Student Alertness
• Investigating the Impact of Daily Agendas on Time Management
• The Effectiveness of Socratic Seminars in Social Studies
• Analyzing the Use of Graphic Organizers for Concept Mapping
• Implementing Student-Led Conferences for Goal Setting
• Examining the Effects of Mind Mapping on Information Retention
• The Influence of Classroom Temperature on Academic Performance
• Investigating the Benefits of Cooperative Learning Strategies
• Strategies for Addressing Test Anxiety in Students
• Assessing the Impact of Positive Affirmations on Student Confidence
• The Use of Literature Circles to Enhance Reading Comprehension
• Exploring the Effects of Classroom Noise Levels on Concentration
• Investigating the Benefits of Cross-Grade Collaborations
• Analyzing the Impact of Goal Setting on Student Achievement
• Implementing Interactive Notebooks for Conceptual Understanding
• The Effectiveness of Response to Intervention (RTI) Programs
• Strategies for Integrating Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
• Investigating the Impact of Classroom Discussions on Critical Thinking
• The Role of Brain Breaks in Enhancing Student Focus
• Assessing the Benefits of Inquiry-Based Learning in Science
• Exploring the Effects of Music on Studying and Retention
• Investigating the Use of Learning Contracts for Individualized Learning
• The Influence of Classroom Colors on Mood and Learning
• Strategies for Promoting Collaborative Problem-Solving
• Analyzing the Impact of Flexible Scheduling on Student Productivity
• The Effectiveness of Mindful Breathing Exercises on Stress Reduction
• Investigating the Benefits of Service Learning Projects
• The Role of Peer Assessment in Improving Writing Skills
• Exploring the Impact of Field Trips on Cultural Competency
• Assessing the Benefits of Personalized Learning Plans
• Strategies for Differentiating Instruction in Large Classrooms
• Investigating the Influence of Teacher-Student Relationships on Learning
• The Effectiveness of Vocabulary Games in Foreign Language Classes
• Analyzing the Impact of Classroom Discussions on Civic Engagement
• Implementing Goal-Setting Strategies for Test Preparation
• The Role of Classroom Celebrations in Building a Positive Environment
• Strategies for Enhancing Student Reflection and Metacognition
• Investigating the Effects of Positive Behavior Supports (PBS)
• The Influence of Classroom Humor on Student Engagement
• Assessing the Benefits of Student-Led Research Projects
• Exploring the Impact of Timed vs. Untimed Tests on Anxiety
• Investigating the Use of Educational Podcasts for Learning
• The Effectiveness of Debate Activities in Developing Persuasive Skills
• Analyzing the Impact of Mindful Walking Breaks on Concentration
• Strategies for Promoting Digital Citizenship in the Classroom
• The Role of Visualization Techniques in Mathematics Learning
• Assessing the Benefits of Classroom Agreements for Behavior
• Exploring the Effects of Goal-Setting in Physical Education
• Investigating the Influence of Classroom Seating Charts on Behavior
• The Effectiveness of Peer Editing in Improving Writing Skills
• Strategies for Integrating Cultural Competency in History Lessons
• Analyzing the Impact of Classroom Pets on Student Well-Being
• The Role of Morning Meetings in Building Classroom Community
• Investigating the Benefits of Using Learning Centers in Elementary Schools
• Exploring the Effects of Virtual Reality in Geography Education
• Assessing the Impact of Homework Choice on Student Motivation
• Strategies for Promoting Growth Mindset in Mathematics
• The Influence of Classroom Layout on Group Collaboration
• Investigating the Benefits of Mindful Listening Practices
• The Effectiveness of Using Real-World Examples in Science Lessons
• Analyzing the Impact of Student-Led Assessments on Accountability
• Exploring the Use of Learning Contracts for Student Responsibility
• Investigating the Benefits of Teaching Digital Literacy Skills
• Strategies for Implementing Peer Mentoring Programs
• The Role of Graphic Novels in Promoting Literacy
• Assessing the Impact of Flexible Grouping in Mathematics Classes
• The Effectiveness of Using Storytelling for Conceptual Understanding
• Investigating the Influence of Classroom Rituals on Attendance
• Exploring the Benefits of Mindfulness Practices in Physical Education
• Strategies for Integrating Social Justice Education in the Curriculum
• Analyzing the Impact of Goal-Setting on Homework Completion
• The Role of Classroom Mindfulness Activities in Stress Reduction
• Investigating the Benefits of Using Educational Apps for Vocabulary
• The Effectiveness of Using Drama in History Lessons
• Assessing the Impact of Classroom Routines on Time Management
• Exploring the Influence of Teacher-Student Rapport on Academic Achievement
• Strategies for Promoting Active Listening Skills in the Classroom
• Investigating the Benefits of Using Concept Mapping in Science
• The Role of Classroom Socratic Seminars in Developing Critical Thinking
• Assessing the Impact of Mindful Eating Practices on Student Focus
• Exploring the Effects of Flipped Learning in Physical Education
• Investigating the Benefits of Using Educational Games for Math Fluency
• The Effectiveness of Peer Assessment in Art Classes
• Strategies for Fostering Creativity in Science Education
• Analyzing the Impact of Morning Stretches on Student Alertness
• The Role of Classroom Discussions in Enhancing Social Studies Learning
• Investigating the Benefits of Using Augmented Reality in History Lessons
• Assessing the Impact of Growth Mindset Interventions on Test Anxiety
• Strategies for Incorporating Environmental Education in the Curriculum
• The Effectiveness of Using Conceptual Maps in Literature Analysis
• Exploring the Influence of Classroom Lighting on Reading Comprehension
• Investigating the Benefits of Using Learning Apps for Language Acquisition
• The Role of Classroom Experiments in Science Education
• Analyzing the Impact of Mindful Breathing Exercises on Test Performance
• Strategies for Promoting Collaborative Problem-Solving in Mathematics
• Assessing the Benefits of Mindfulness Practices in Physical Education
• Exploring the Effects of Flexible Seating on Student Collaboration
• Investigating the Influence of Homework Choice on Student Motivation
• The Effectiveness of Using Educational Podcasts for History Learning
• Strategies for Integrating Sustainability Education Across Subjects
• Analyzing the Impact of Mindful Writing Practices on Language Arts Skills
• The Role of Peer Teaching in Enhancing Understanding of Complex Concepts
• Investigating the Benefits of Using Digital Storytelling in Literature Classes
• The Effectiveness of Inquiry-Based Learning in Social Studies
• Assessing the Impact of Student-Led Book Clubs on Reading Engagement
• Strategies for Incorporating Financial Literacy in Mathematics Education
• Exploring the Influence of Classroom Decor on Science Interest
• Investigating the Benefits of Mindful Movement Breaks in the Classroom
• The Role of Reflection Journals in Developing Critical Thinking Skills
• Analyzing the Impact of Virtual Field Trips on Geography Learning
• Strategies for Promoting Inclusive Physical Education Practices
• Assessing the Benefits of Using Educational Board Games for Learning
• The Effectiveness of Mindfulness Practices in Foreign Language Classes
• Investigating the Influence of Classroom Rituals on Academic Rigor
• Exploring the Impact of Student-Led Conferences on Goal Setting
• The Role of Mindful Listening Practices in Improving Communication Skills
• Investigating the Benefits of Using Educational Apps for Science Exploration
• Analyzing the Effectiveness of Socratic Seminars in Philosophy Classes
• Strategies for Promoting Gender Equity in STEM Education
• Assessing the Impact of Classroom Celebrations on Student Well-Being
• The Effectiveness of Using Debate Activities in Language Arts
• Exploring the Influence of Positive Affirmations on Classroom Climate
• Investigating the Benefits of Using Concept Mapping in History Essays
• Strategies for Incorporating Media Literacy in Social Studies
• Analyzing the Impact of Mindful Reflection Practices on Homework Completion
• The Role of Peer Collaboration in Enhancing Artistic Skills
• Investigating the Benefits of Using Educational Apps for Vocabulary Acquisition
• The Effectiveness of Mindful Breathing Exercises in Test Preparation
• Assessing the Impact of Flipped Learning in Science Laboratories
• Strategies for Promoting Civic Engagement in Social Studies Classes
• Exploring the Influence of Outdoor Learning on Scientific Inquiry
• Investigating the Benefits of Using Learning Stations for Literature Analysis
• The Role of Mindful Movement in Improving Physical Education Experiences
• Analyzing the Effectiveness of Virtual Reality in Language Learning
• Strategies for Incorporating Global Perspectives in Geography Education
• Assessing the Impact of Mindful Coloring Activities on Stress Reduction
• The Effectiveness of Using Educational Games for History Review
• Investigating the Benefits of Mindful Breathing Exercises in Mathematics
• Exploring the Influence of Classroom Rituals on Study Habits
• The Role of Mindful Listening Practices in Enhancing Oral Communication
• Analyzing the Impact of Student-Led Workshops on Study Skills
• Strategies for Promoting Critical Media Literacy in Language Arts
• Assessing the Benefits of Mindfulness Practices in Physical Fitness
• The Effectiveness of Using Educational Apps for Music Appreciation
• Investigating the Influence of Classroom Decor on Artistic Expression
• Exploring the Impact of Mindful Eating Practices on Nutrition Awareness
• The Role of Peer Assessment in Improving Science Fair Projects
• Analyzing the Benefits of Mindful Breathing Exercises in History Classes
• Strategies for Promoting Teamwork in Physical Education
• Assessing the Impact of Classroom Celebrations on Cultural Understanding
• The Effectiveness of Using Conceptual Maps in Geography Education
• Investigating the Benefits of Mindful Movement Breaks in Mathematics
• The Role of Mindful Listening Practices in Improving Musical Skills
• Analyzing the Impact of Student-Led Discussions in Philosophy Classes
• Strategies for Incorporating Environmental Stewardship in Science Education
• Assessing the Benefits of Using Educational Games for Physical Fitness
• Exploring the Influence of Classroom Decor on Mathematical Interest
• Investigating the Effectiveness of Virtual Reality in Art Appreciation
• The Role of Mindful Movement in Enhancing Physical Education Experiences
• Strategies for Promoting Cultural Competency in Language Arts
• Analyzing the Impact of Mindful Breathing Exercises on Test Anxiety
• The Effectiveness of Using Educational Apps for Science Exploration
• Investigating the Benefits of Peer Teaching in Mathematics Classes
• Exploring the Influence of Classroom Rituals on Language Arts Skills
• Assessing the Impact of Mindful Coloring Activities on Creative Expression
• The Role of Mindful Listening Practices in Improving Public Speaking
• Investigating the Benefits of Using Learning Stations for History Learning
• The Effectiveness of Peer Assessment in Improving Writing Skills
• Strategies for Promoting Digital Literacy in Geography Education
• Analyzing the Impact of Mindful Eating Practices on Healthy Habits
• Assessing the Benefits of Using Educational Games for Social Studies
• The Effectiveness of Mindful Movement Breaks in Science Education
• Exploring the Influence of Classroom Decor on Writing Motivation
• Investigating the Role of Mindfulness Practices in Mathematics Anxiety
• Strategies for Incorporating Financial Literacy in Social Studies
• Analyzing the Benefits of Using Concept Mapping in Science Labs
• The Role of Mindful Breathing Exercises in Improving Music Education
• Exploring the Impact of Virtual Reality on Foreign Language Acquisition
• Assessing the Benefits of Mindful Movement Breaks in History Classes

Tips for Conducting Action Research in the Classroom

• Setting Clear Research Goals and Objectives: Clearly define the goals and objectives of the research to ensure a focused and purposeful investigation.
• Involving Stakeholders in the Research Process: Engage students, parents, and colleagues in the research process to gather diverse perspectives and insights.
• Collecting and Analyzing Relevant Data: Use a variety of data collection methods, such as surveys, observations, and assessments, to gather comprehensive and meaningful data.
• Reflecting on Findings and Adjusting Teaching Practices: Regularly reflect on the research findings and be open to adjusting teaching practices based on the insights gained from the research.

Case Studies or Examples

Highlighting successful action research projects provides inspiration and practical insights for teachers. 

Sharing case studies or examples of impactful research can demonstrate the positive outcomes and improvements that can result from well-conducted action research.

In conclusion, action research is a valuable tool for educators seeking to enhance their teaching practices and improve student outcomes. 

Selecting the right topics from a list of topics for action research in the classroom is crucial for the success of action research projects, and teachers should consider alignment with goals, relevance to students, feasibility, and potential impact. 

By exploring a diverse range of topics, teachers can embark on meaningful action research journeys, contributing to the continuous improvement of education.

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Benefits of Action Research in Education

In the course of their occupation, teachers will carry out studies to improve their methods. There are many advantages of action research. The following essay examines them in detail.

Introduction to Action Research

Benefits of action research, limitations of action research.

• Advantages of Classroom Research

Three Action Research Questions

Action research benefits: a case study.

Action research is an additional form of professional development that focuses on methods applied by teachers in efforts to improve learning. It is done through collaboration with the community, teachers, and students. In involves classroom-based inquiries on various topics relevant to the stakeholders.

Through action research, teachers are allowed to make decisions for the good of all students. Research findings have it that teachers are affected by research carried on them by other people. It affects their morale, leading to a decline in the academic performance of students.

It is also noted that giving students too much power leaves most teachers with little or no control over classroom activities. The development is harmful as it negatively affects the performance of the students.

Giving teachers the power to design and implement their research work improves the overall performance of the students (Ros & Meyer, 2002).

The current essay revolves around action research in the school setting. The author will highlight some of the benefits of action research, in addition to the barriers encountered in implementing the strategy. The author will also pose various questions with regard to action research.

Action research is beneficial to both students and teachers. The various benefits of this phenomenon include professional development. Such a development results from collaborative action work. Action research also improves the culture adopted in the school.

To this end, different research methodologies are applied to bring about change and development in education. Engagement in the classroom improves personal and professional values of the teachers, including their self esteem, self-efficacy, and collegiality.

Another advantage of action research is empowerment of teachers. In this case, teachers are given the power to make and implement their decisions. The powers to conduct classroom inquiries and those concerned with day-to-day running of the school are vested on the teachers.

The empowerment improves their working knowledge and status, which are essential to the success of the students. The teachers plan, organize, and nurture relationships in the school. The teachers improve their professionalism by engaging in curriculum conversations (Ros & Meyer, 2002).

Action research fosters development of skills pertaining to critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, and ethical decision making. Teachers are required to adopt teaching practices that are beneficial to their students. The teachers hypothesize and test the practices they think are best suited to the career needs of their students.

Action research enhances the status of the teachers through collective participation. Teachers who participate in action research and who share their findings with stakeholders are respected. The expertise gained from research turns teachers into advocates for those practices that can improve and promote students’ learning.

Their discoveries are adopted by other teachers to improve learning. By sharing new ideas, teachers learn from each other. They become more connected and broaden their perspective. Teachers become more involved in issues affecting their school and students.

They begin to view themselves as responsible leaders with a voice and duty of contributing to school matters. Action research promotes the development of a community of learners. It enhances the development of educational leaders and top-notch researchers.

The entire community benefits from these leaders since they learn from each other (Ros & Meyer, 2002).

Action research has numerous barriers. The barriers hinder data collection, participation, and analysis of findings. It increases anxiety among teachers. Many teachers are intimidated by the language and unethical ways of thinking used by researchers.

Teachers may be isolated by researchers since they perceive them as critical thinkers and analyzers of essential facts. The differential status adopted by some researchers also limits action research. Many teachers perceive this aspect as a tool tailored to ridicule their activities.

Lack of ownership is another setback in action research. Students review only those articles that serve their own interests. They fail to review articles of less interest, hindering action research. There are also institutional issues that negatively affect action research.

Action research is perceived as an asset for opening up the school activities to the outsiders. Based on the sensitivity of the research, administrators paralyze any activity that can open their administration to criticism (Shuiman, 2005).

Advantages of Classroom-Based Inquiries

Conducting classroom-based inquiries facilitates improvement through change. Participation in classroom inquiries generates commitment. The increased commitment is vital in improving students’ achievement. Classroom inquiry also develops teachers’ professional experiences, allowing them to take responsibility for their growth (Lang, 2004).

Questions for teachers engaged in action research originate from their classrooms. They come as a result of uncertainties, conflict of ideas, and the desire to learn. Teachers use a variety of research questions to investigate the use and adoption of technology by their students.

Before framing research questions, a research plan must be developed to capture such details as the purpose of the research, need for innovation, and the subjects to be covered (Cousin, 2000). Following are three action research questions:

• What is the impact of using computer-based instrumentation in science classrooms?
• What is the effect of using database in classrooms?
• What is the impact of computer technology on students’ motivation?

The main question for the case study was: “Do all students acquire uniform education?’’. The study was aimed at analyzing the learning problems faced by the disabled students. The participants included one unified science general education teacher and two unified science special education co-teachers.

The study involved students with and without disabilities. Data was collected using interviews, review of documents, and focus group discussion for one year. The data was quantified using a constant comparative method and later analyzed (Cousin, 2000).

Action research is a vital tool in identifying the challenges affecting students, teachers, and communities in general. It must be encouraged to improve and mentor the future career of the students.

With improved information and communication technology, it is possible to reduce educational challenges and, as a result, improve the performance of both students and teachers. Though action research is affected by many factors, patience and tolerance must be embraced to enhance its success.

Cousin, G. (2000). Action research . Web.

Lang, F. (2004). The dynamics of school-based learning in initial teacher education. Research Papers in Education, 19 (2), 185-204.

Ros, H., & Meyer, A. (2002). Teaching every student in the digital age: Universal design for learning. Alexandria, VA: The Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Shuiman, L. (2005). Opening lines: Approaches to the scholarship of teaching and learning. Web.

Zaaba, Z. (2009). Science and technology education in English: A case study of language policy in Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur: The International Conference on the Social Science and Humanities (ICOSH).

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2023, October 30). Benefits of Action Research in Education. https://ivypanda.com/essays/action-research/

"Benefits of Action Research in Education." IvyPanda , 30 Oct. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/action-research/.

IvyPanda . (2023) 'Benefits of Action Research in Education'. 30 October.

IvyPanda . 2023. "Benefits of Action Research in Education." October 30, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/action-research/.

1. IvyPanda . "Benefits of Action Research in Education." October 30, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/action-research/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Benefits of Action Research in Education." October 30, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/action-research/.

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• Open access
• Published: 18 July 2023

Involvement of lncRNAs in cancer cells migration, invasion and metastasis: cytoskeleton and ECM crosstalk

• Mohammad Ahmad 1 , 2 , 3 ,
• Louis-Bastien Weiswald 1 , 2 ,
• Laurent Poulain 1 , 2 ,
• Christophe Denoyelle 1 , 2 &
• Matthieu Meryet-Figuiere   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-8001-6114 1 , 2  

Journal of Experimental & Clinical Cancer Research volume  42 , Article number:  173 ( 2023 ) Cite this article

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Cancer is the main cause of death worldwide and metastasis is a major cause of poor prognosis and cancer-associated mortality. Metastatic conversion of cancer cells is a multiplex process, including EMT through cytoskeleton remodeling and interaction with TME. Tens of thousands of putative lncRNAs have been identified, but the biological functions of most are still to be identified. However, lncRNAs have already emerged as key regulators of gene expression at transcriptional and post-transcriptional level to control gene expression in a spatio-temporal fashion. LncRNA-dependent mechanisms can control cell fates during development and their perturbed expression is associated with the onset and progression of many diseases including cancer. LncRNAs have been involved in each step of cancer cells metastasis through different modes of action. The investigation of lncRNAs different roles in cancer metastasis could possibly lead to the identification of new biomarkers and innovative cancer therapeutic options.

With the diagnosis of an estimated 19,292,789 cases and the incidence 9,958,133 deaths globally, cancer is considered the leading cause of death in 2020 [ 1 ]. Smoking, alcohol abuse and high body mass index (BMI) are the leading risk factors for risk-attributable cancer deaths and (disability-adjusted life-years) DALYs in 2019 [ 2 ]. The dissemination of cancer cells from the tissue of origin to a distant site is called cancer metastasis, which is the actual cause of death from solid cancerous diseases that are characterized by diagnosis at late stages and poor 5-year overall survival [ 3 ].

Cancer metastasis is a complex process that includes many distinct steps and signaling cascades that affect cancer cell biology [ 4 ]. Starting with extracellular signals that induce cytoskeletal remodeling affecting cellular adhesion to basement membrane and cell–cell junction, it is followed by interaction with the extracellular matrix (ECM) that allows the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) process of cancerous cells, enabling them to migrate and invade the surrounding tissue [ 5 ]. The invasion is followed by intravasation into nearby blood and lymphatic vessels that are formed by angiogenic and lymphangiogenic factors released from the tumor [ 6 , 7 ]. Finally, only few cancer cells are able to survive and undergo extravasation into distant tissues and form metastasis. This occurs due to their exposure of severe stress in the blood stream through loss of adhesion to ECM, shear forces, and attacks of the immune system [ 8 ].

Furthermore, it was found that resistance to cancer therapy and metastasis shared many signaling pathways that confer metastasis-associated resistance, including chemokine receptor, Wnt/β-catenin, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signaling pathways [ 9 ]. Therefore, studying the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer metastasis are important in order to better understand and identify the primary to metastatic tumor conversion and possibly determine curative targets.

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of transcripts with more than 200 nucleotides in length and poor or absent coding capacity. Although some lncRNAs have been identified decades ago, their vast diversity was discovered recently through sequencing of full-length cDNA libraries in the human genome. The GENCODE project estimate that the human genome contains more than 16,000 lncRNA genes [ 10 , 11 , 12 ].

Because of their very diverse mechanisms of action, lncRNAs affect most – if not all – biological processes and it was found that lncRNAs perturbed expression may be one of the causal events of many diseases including cancer [ 13 , 14 , 15 ], where they are involved in metastasis-related pathways.

In this review we will underline lncRNAs critical roles in this important aspect of cancer cell biology, enlightening the need for a better understanding of their function in metastasis-related processes.

Roles of lncRNAs in cancer

The conversion of normal cells into cancerous and tumor formation is a multistep process, through which cells acquire particular capacities that enable them to become tumorigenic. These basic hallmark capabilities, are: sustaining proliferative signaling, evading growth suppressors, resisting cell death, enabling replicative immortality, inducing angiogenesis and activating invasion and metastasis. Due to tumor microenvironment complexity additional 2 hallmarks have been added; reprogramming of energy metabolism and avoiding immune destruction [ 16 ]. Eventually, advances in the understanding of the biology of tumors have led to the emergence of four new hallmarks; unlocking phenotypic plasticity, non-mutational epigenetic reprogramming, polymorphic microbiomes and senescent cells [ 17 ].

Many studies reported alterations in lncRNAs expression in cancerous cells compared to normal ones [ 18 , 19 , 20 ], and through their diverse modes of action they potentially participate in each hall mark of cancer including metastasis [ 21 , 22 , 23 ].

LncRNAs rely on different mechanisms of action

LncRNAs most common roles include the regulation of gene expression, at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. According to their sub-cellular localization, nuclear lncRNAs can regulate gene expression by performing their function in cis; in the vicinity of their genomic loci of origin; or in trans at distal genomic loci from their site of transcription. They are also engaged at different stages of mRNA splicing. Meanwhile in cytoplasm, lncRNAs are involved in mRNA translation or stability. Interestingly, some lncRNAs can act through several different mechanisms of action [ 24 , 25 ].

In the nucleus, lncRNAs can regulate gene expression at the epigenetic level through different processes. First, they can act on chromatin remodeling by acting as guide for chromatin modifying complexes into distinct genomic loci, such as polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), leading to the formation of inactive chromatin methylation modification of histone H3 at the 27 th lysine (H3K27me3) through its histone-methyl transferase subunit enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2). On the other hand, lncRNAs can recruit mixed-lineage leukemia (MLL) histone methyl transferase complex to gene promoters, facilitating active chromatin H3K4me3 modification, inducing gene expression [ 26 , 27 ]. Also, they may act as decoy for histone deacetylases (HDACs) through direct interaction, thereby maintaining the activating chromatin modifications H3K9ac and H3K56ac (Fig.  1 A) [ 28 ].

Different mechanisms of action of lncRNAs for the regulation of gene expression

LncRNAs can also regulate gene expression at the transcriptional level through direct interaction with DNA to form R-loops. These DNA-RNA hybrids are enriched at CpG islands preventing the action of DNA methyl transferases and DNA organization in to closed nucleosomal conformation, thus induce gene expression through guiding transcription factors (TFs) to their target gene’s promoters [ 29 , 30 ]. Additionally, they can act as enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) through their transcription from a gene enhancer region, and promote the formation of a chromatin loop through interaction with TFs, hence activating transcription for the genes located in the looping DNA region (Fig.  1 B) [ 31 ]. LncRNAs can regulate mRNA alternative splicing at different levels, through acting as a decoy for splicing factor (SF) proteins preventing their binding to pre-mRNAs or induction of SF proteins phosphorylation promoting their target mRNA splicing (Fig.  1 C) [ 32 ].

In the cytoplasm lncRNAs can affect mRNA translation, stability or turnover through binding with mRNA 5’UTR or 3’UTR to induce or repress gene expression, respectively (Fig.  1 D) [ 33 ]. LncRNAs can also bind to RNA binding proteins, including both stabilizing and destabilizing factors affecting mRNA decay [ 34 ]. For instance, they can reduce mRNA stability and induce its degradation through Staufen1 mediated decay (Fig.  1 E) [ 35 ].

One of the most widely studied mode of action of lncRNAs is through their action as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs). Linear or circular form (circ RNA) lncRNAs can sequester miRNAs through sequence-complementarity based interaction. As a result, it prevents the formation of miRNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) and the following mRNA destabilization, hence allowing the restoration of target mRNAs expression (Fig.  1 F) [ 36 ].

Role of lncRNAs in cancer cells EMT

Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important physiological process that occurs during embryo development and tissue repair and pathologically participates in disease progression, including organ fibrosis and cancer [ 37 ]. It is a multi-step process in which cells lose their cuboidal epithelial-like form and acquire a spindle-shaped mesenchymal phenotype that allows cancer cells to migrate from their original tissue and invade the neighboring circulation, enabling invasiveness and metastasis [ 38 , 39 ]. Epithelial cells maintain their phenotype through different cell surface and cytoskeleton markers, such as epithelial cadherin (E-cadherin) in adherens junctions and claudin, occludin, and zonula occludens 1 in the tight junctions between adjacent epithelial cells. They also maintain cytokeratin filaments in the hemidesmosomes that anchors epithelial cells to the basement membrane to maintain their apical-basal polarity [ 40 , 41 ].

In the course of EMT, cancer cells start to lose expression or function of epithelial markers, such as E-cadherin and gain mesenchymal markers, such as vimentin, mesenchymal neural cadherin (N-cadherin), integrins (α2β1, α5β1), collagens (Type (I) and (II)), fibronectin and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs 1, 3 and 9) [ 42 , 43 ].

Vimentin is an intermediate filament protein and responsible for cellular motility through interaction with motor proteins for trafficking of cellular organelles, as well as, targeting mesenchymal proteins towards membranes [ 44 ]. N-cadherin connects with cytoskeleton through α-catenin, β-catenin, p120 catenin, and stabilizes RTKs increasing their signaling and induction of EMT [ 45 ]. Integrin α2β1 interacts with type (I) collagen in ECM through the action of ECM remodeling MMPs and promotes the dissociation of E-cadherin and nuclear translocation of the transcription factor β-catenin [ 46 ]. Integrin α5β1 increases cellular adhesion toward ECM protein fibronectin inducing cellular migration [ 47 ].

Wnt/ β-catenin and RTK signaling, together with TGF-β, Notch or Hedgehog and among the many signaling pathways involved in EMT [ 48 , 49 ]. Through these signaling pathways different TFs have been integrated in the repression of epithelial genes and induction of mesenchymal ones, such as Snail family: SNAIL1 and SLUG (also known as SNAIL2); zinc-finger E-box-binding (ZEB): ZEB1/2 and basic helix–loop–helix (TWIST1/2) [ 50 , 51 ].

Numerous findings identified the principal role of lncRNAs in cancer metastasis by modulating EMT and migration/invasion processes (Table 1 ).

Bioinformatic analysis of ceRNA network in mesenchymal ovarian cancer (OC) identified lncRNA pro-transition associated RNA (PTAR). PTAR-associated upregulation of ZEB1 EMT-associated TF was observed in mesenchymal sub-types as compared to epithelial sub-types in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) OC data sets. Moreover, PTAR overexpression increased EMT and metastasis of OC in vitro , while PTAR knockdown (KD) diminished OC tumorigenicity and metastasis in vivo. Functional investigation identified how PTAR controls ZEB1 levels. PTAR acts as ceRNA for miR-101-3p, that directly targets ZEB1 mRNA; PTAR upregulation thus leading to increased ZEB1 levels [ 52 ].

LncRNA H19 was observed to be highly expressed in different metastatic tissues, regardless of the primary tumor origin. TGF-β-induced expression of H19 leads to the upregulation of SLUG TF that in turn upregulates H19 expression in a positive feed-back loop. The resulting inhibition of E-cadherin induces metastasis in cancer cells of several origins [ 53 ].

LncRNA maternally expressed 8 (MEG8) is related to TGF-β-mediated EMT of both lung cancer (LC) and pancreatic cancer (PCa) cell lines. MEG8 recruits of EZH2, a member of the PRC2 repressive complex, to miRNA-34a and miRNA-203 genes promoter regions. The subsequent inhibition of the expression of these miRNAs leads to SNAIL1/2 upregulation, repression of E-cadherin, and promotes EMT [ 54 ].

The upregulation of lncRNA HOXD-AS1 was associated with migration and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells in vitro and distant lung metastasis and poor prognosis in vivo. It was shown that STAT3-mediated HOXD-AS1 overexpression induces SRY-related HMG-box 4 (SOX4). HOXD-AS1 competitive binds miR-130a-3p thus preventing SOX4 miRNA-mediated degradation [ 55 ]. SOX4 has been upregulated in numerous cancers and associated with TGF-β-mediated EMT and metastasis [ 72 ].

LncRNA activated by TGF-β (ATB) is highly expressed in breast cancer (BC) patients and correlated with increased metastasis and decreased overall survival. It was found that lncRNA ATB act as ceRNA for several miRNAs of the miR-200 family, namely miR-200a/b/c, miR-141 and miR-429. Through these interactions, ATB can increase ZEB1 and TWIST1 expression, these transcription factors promoting in turn vimentin expression and BC cells migration and invasion. [ 56 ].

LncRNA N-BLR has high expression levels in gastric cancer (GC) tissue compared to normal gastric tissue. Downregulation of lncRNA N-BLR reduced the migration and invasion abilities of GC cells. Mechanistic characterization identified that N-BLR induced EMT through targeting miR-200c-3p. miR-200c-3p has anti-EMT characteristics through down regulation of N-cadherin as well as SNAIL and ZEB1 TFs [ 57 ]. Moreover, N-BLR regulates colorectal cancer (CRC) metastasis through sponging the anti-metastatic miRNAs miR-200c-3p and miR-141-3p, and its KD inhibits CRC cells migration and invasion [ 58 ].

Furthermore, the lncRNA metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1), upregulated in various types of cancers [ 73 ], promotes LC proliferation and metastasis by acting as ceRNA for anti-metastatic miR-200a, inducing ZEB1 TF expression [ 59 ].

Altogether, it is interesting to note that ATB, N-BLR and MALAT1 lncRNAs are all acting on EMT through the same mode of action, by ceRNA relationships with miRNAs from the mir-200 family. This miRNA family have broad roles in EMT, metastasis ECM remodeling and overall appear as master regulators in most of metastasis-related processes [ 74 ]. Hence, in this regard, lncRNAs seem to appear in turn as an efficient and specific tool to control the activity of miRNAs in a post-transcriptional manner, adding to the necessary complexity to fine-tune gene expression.

Role of lncRNAs in cancer cells cytoskeleton remodeling

Cytoskeleton is a complex network of filamentous proteins that maintain cellular architecture and interaction between these proteins is crucial for cytoskeleton function. Cytoskeleton is composed of three main components; (i) Actin microfilaments; for cell morphology maintenance and locomotion, (ii) intermediate filaments which are cell type-specific and made up of vimentin and keratins, and (iii) microtubules including α- and β-tubulins that serve as support for intracellular organelles and segregation of chromosomes in the cell cycle [ 75 , 76 ].

Actin cytoskeleton remodeling is a key characteristic in the eukaryotic cell to perform different functions, including cell motility, cytokinesis, membrane trafficking, and endocytosis. Actin filaments dynamics come from its ability to switch between monomeric globular (G) form and polymeric filamentous (F) form. During actin polymerization, ATP-G-actin monomers are added to the fast-growing barbed end of actin filaments and experience structural transition into flattened (F) actin form that converts ATP into ADP with its ATPase activity during which added to the slowly-growing actin filament tapered ends. This process is regulated by actin binding proteins, which are implicated in assembly, disassembly, capping and crosslinking of actin filaments, such as actin monomer binding protein profilin (PFN1), cleavage protein cofilin (CFL1) and capping/ branching actin related protein (Arp2/3) complex [ 77 , 78 , 79 ].

In case of normal physiological condition with low CFL1/actin ratio, CFL1 binds ADP-F actin from the elongated pointed ends causing its release, then PFN1 replaces ADP with ATP creating a new pool of G-actin that can be added to the barbed end. On the other hand, in cancer cells with high CFL1/actin ratio, CFL1 binds rapidly to F-actin, causing its saturation and stabilization into twisted form that allow its separation as CFL1-saturated actin bundles from the pointed ends. CFL1 rapidly dissociates from actin, causing the emergence of new highly-growing barbed ends which in turn induces cellular motility [ 80 , 81 , 82 , 83 ]. The phosphorylation/ dephosphorylation status of CFL1 ascertain its activity, as CFL1 phosphorylation inhibits its activity and ability to bind F-actin and hence actin filaments remodeling [ 84 ]. Moreover, CFL1 upregulation has been perceived in many cancers, since it induces metastasis and inhibits apoptosis of cancer cells [ 85 , 86 , 87 ].

The Arp2/3 complex responsible for actin branching through nucleation of a new growing filament from the nascent filament or capping of the pointed end. This branching process will produce heavily populated branched actin filaments [ 88 ].

The spatially growing actin filaments against plasma membrane develop filopodia, lamellipodia and invadopodia which are subcellular protrusions that allow cancer cells to invade the extracellular niche during metastasis [ 89 ]. The ras homolog family (Rho) GTPase–dependent signaling cascades regulate filopodia, lamellipodia and invadopodia formation. There are three main factors from the Rho GTPases considered as key cytoskeleton regulators; Rho (A, B, and C), Rac (1,2, and 3) and cell division cycle 42 (Cdc42) [ 90 ]. RhoA is found in cell membranes and regulates the formation of actin-myosin bundles, stress fibers, focal adhesions and lamellipodia. RhoB is found in the endosomes, while RhoC regulates the phagosomes [ 91 ].

Rac1 is mainly present in the membrane and is responsible for the development of lamellipodia and invadopodia, while Rac2 induces cellular adhesion to intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). Rac3 is responsible for the adhesion of invadopodia to the ECM allowing its degradation [ 92 ]. Cdc42 is a stimulator of filopodia formation and responsible for cancer cells migration and invasion to the ECM [ 93 ]. These Rho GTPases exert their action through downstream effector Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein serine/threonine kinase (ROCK) family of proteins including ROCK1 and ROCK2 [ 94 , 95 ].

LncRNAs have shown a great influence on actin cytoskeleton remodeling in cancer not merely by direct interaction with actin and its related proteins but also its regulatory pathways including Rho/ROCK signaling pathway (Table 1 ) [ 96 ].

LncRNA CRYBG3 inhibits proliferation, migration and invasion of LC cells through direct interaction with G-actin preventing its polymerization to F-actin. As a result, CRYBG3 blocks LC cells in M phase of the cell cycle leading to the generation of bi-nucleated cells and eventually apoptosis [ 60 ].

High expression of LINC00857 was associated with PCa advanced stage and metastasis. LINC00857 promotes PCa cells proliferation and metastasis through the regulation of miR-103b/RhoA axis, by acting as ceRNA for miR-103b that targets RhoA mRNA. LINC00857 overexpression thus leads to an increase in RhoA expression, favoring metastasis [ 61 ].

The newly discovered lncRNA lung cancer associated transcript 1 (LCAT1) was shown to be upregulated in LC tissues. It has been shown that LCAT1 is a ceRNA to miR-4715-5p, which is targeting Rac1 mRNA. It was thus shown that, by decreasing Rac1 expression levels, LCAT1 KD inhibits LC metastasis in xenograft mouse models [ 62 ].

The differentiation antagonizing nonprotein coding RNA (DANCR) is highly expressed in HCC cells. DANCR induces HCC cells metastasis by acting as a ceRNA for miR-27a-3p, therefore upregulating the expression of its direct target LIM domain kinase (LIMK1) mRNA. LIMK1 is substrate of ROCK1 and responsible for CFL1 phosphorylation and hence its inactivation, therefore controlling EMT [ 63 ].

LncRNA H19 induces HCC cells proliferation, migration and invasion, while its KD promotes HCC cells apoptosis. Mechanistically, H19 is a ceRNA to miR-15b preventing its binding to Cdc42 mRNA 3’UTR eventually promoting Cdc42/PAK1 signaling pathway [ 64 ]. PAK1 (p21-activated kinase 1) has been shown to be upregulated in many cancers [ 97 ] and is activated through phosphorylation by Cdc42 and activates LIMK1 [ 98 ].

The lncRNA LINC00452 is upregulated in both OC cells and tumor tissues in patients and negatively associated with relapse-free survival of OC patients. LINC00542 induces OC cells migration and invasion by acting as ceRNA for miR-501-3p and subsequent derepression of ROCK1 expression [ 65 ].

The lncRNA ZNFX1 antisense RNA 1 (ZFAS1) is transcribed in antisense orientation of zinc finger NFX1‐type containing 1 (ZNFX1). It is abnormally expressed in many cancers [ 99 ]. LncRNA ZFAS1 influences pancreatic adenocarcinoma metastasis through RhoA/ROCK2 signaling pathway by functioning as ceRNA for miR-3924, which itself inhibits ROCK2 expression [ 66 ].

Role of lncRNAs in cancer cells ECM regulation

ECM has a crucial role for all biological processes through support of tissue architecture, cell adhesion anchor, reserve of water and different growth factors, as well as control of several intracellular signaling pathways [ 100 ]. ECM is an assorted fabric, constructed from proteins (mainly collagen, fibronectin, elastin and laminin), glycosaminoglycans (i.e. chondroitin sulfate, heparin sulfate and hyaluronic acid), proteoglycans (i.e. hyalectans, aggrecan, versican and decorin), and ECM modifying enzymes (i.e. ADAM, ADAMTS and cathepsin). ECM differs from organ to organ in composition [ 101 ].

ECM is considered a main component of tumor microenvironment (TME) beside cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), immune cells, endothelial cells and pericytes [ 102 ]. CAFs are the main source of ECM components along with the tumor cells that produce notable amount of ECM during cancer development [ 103 ]. Alterations in ECM composition such as cytokines and MMPs, and excessive collagen accumulation (mainly type (I)) are involved in cancer cells proliferation and metastasis [ 104 ]. These ECM modifications depend on cancer progression stage [ 105 ].

During the early stage of cancer formation cancer cells excessive secretion of TGFβ induces fibroblasts recruitment and activation into CAFs. This leads to diminished production of MMPs that allow increased ECM fibers deposition and tumor stiffness [ 106 ]. Afterwards, the signaling from ECM induced EMT of cancer cells that secrete MMPs enabling cancer cells invasion to ECM niche [ 107 , 108 ]. Type (I) collagen (Col-1) is highly enriched in TME favoring tumor progression [ 109 ]. Col-1 binds to α1β1 and α2β1 integrins on cancer cells plasma membrane and inhibits cAMP-dependent protein kinase A, resulting in the actin cytoskeleton remodeling and EMT [ 110 ].

There are lncRNAs involved in cancer cells-ECM crosstalk that allow metastatic dissemination of cancer cells into nearest blood vessels (Table 1 ) [ 111 ].

It has been found that lncRNA H19 and its derived miR-675 are downregulated in metastatic compared to non-metastatic prostate cancer cell lines, while H19 upregulation increased miR-675 levels and inhibits metastatic cells migration. Mechanistic investigation identified that H19 affects ECM as miR-675 targets 3’UTR of transforming growth factor β induced protein (TGFβI), inhibiting its translation [ 67 ]. TGFβI is an ECM protein that showed dual function as tumor promoting and suppressive factor. In several studies it has been shown that TGFβI upregulation is associated with cancer cells invasion, metastasis and extravasation [ 112 ].

The elevated expression of lncRNA HOX Transcript Antisense RNA (HOTAIR) is linked to lymph node metastasis and poor survival in patients with lung adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, and is responsible for brain metastasis in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) [ 113 ]. HOTAIR was up-regulated in NSCLC cells in a 3D culture model supplemented with Col-1. Col-1 induced the expression of a reporter gene controlled by HOTAIR promoter, while HOTAIR expression could be reduced by using antibody against Col-1 receptor α2β1 integrin, indicating the role of lncRNAs in the cancer cells-ECM crosstalk [ 68 ].

Exosomes are double-membraned vesicles secreted by different types of cells and can carry various types of cargoes such as lncRNA, mRNA, miRNA, lipids or proteins. Exosomes derived from cancer cells are involved in TME modulation and induce tumor cells migration and invasion [ 114 ]. It was found that melanoma-derived exosomes containing lncRNA Gm26809 induced melanoma cells proliferation and migration through reprogramming of normal fibroblasts into CAFs, while this effect was revoked through lncRNA Gm26809 KD in melanoma cells [ 69 ].

Elevated levels of the prometastatic chemokine CXCL14 in CAFs has been associated with poor prognosis in OC. It was found that high CAFs-associated CXCL14 levels induced upregulation of lncRNA LINC00092 in OC cells. Mechanistically, LINC00092 binds to the glycolytic enzyme 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-biphosphatase 2 (PFKFB2). This results in an alteration in glycolysis which supports CAF metastasis-promoting functions [ 70 ].

Role of lncRNAs in metastatic cancer cells dormancy and reactivation

Finally, in the early metastasis, disseminated tumor cells (DTCs) to distant organs is undergoing a dormancy stage, in which DTCs harbor reduced proliferation accompanied by sustained survival for years before reactivation for proliferative metastasis. This dormancy stage of DTCs is occurring together with immune evasion and acquisition of high plasticity characteristics [ 115 ]. Suggesting evidences identify the role of some lncRNAs in DTCs dormancy and reactivation in distant metastatic organs (Table .1 ).

It was found that the lncRNA NR2F1-AS1 (NAS1) was upregulated in dormant mesenchymal-like BC stem-like cells (BCSCs) as compared to epithelial-like BCSCs. Mechanistic investigation identified that NAS1 binds to the GC-rich region in 5′UTR of NR2F1 mRNA. This leads to the recruitment of the RNA-binding protein PTBP1 to promote internal ribosome entry site (IRES)-mediated NR2F1 translation. As a result, this suppresses the expression of TP63 gene variant ΔNp63 and hence the expression of miR-205, which is transcriptionally regulated by ΔNp63. Because miR-205 is known to maintain epithelial features and repress EMT through targeting ZEB1, NAS1 ultimately favors EMT in dormant cells [ 71 ].

Identification and functional characterization of lncRNAs

Although lncRNAs have differential expression patterns between normal and cancer tissues, it is insufficient to identify the role of lncRNAs as tumor initiator, promoter or suppressor [ 116 ]. Due to their lack of open reading frame (ORF), their unique spatio-temporal fashion of expression and their numerous modes of action, attributing their function is challenging [ 117 ]. Therefore, functional screening of lncRNAs constitutes an interesting approach to identify their functions and potential cancer curative targets.

Different functional screening approaches have been used, such as RNA interference (RNAi), and antisense oligo nucleotides (ASOs) for post-transcription targeting of lncRNAs. In addition, there are high-throughput approaches for concurrent screening of thousands of lncRNAs, including clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) functional screening systems that targets lncRNAs on both genetic, and epigenetic levels [ 118 ].

RNA interference (RNAi)

RNAi or also known as post transcription gene silencing (PTGS), is a biological process that occurs due to the introduction of double-stranded small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules into the cellular system. The siRNAs are short double-stranded 21 bp RNA molecules that directs the RISC complex to its cellular RNA targets, resulting in its degradation by Argonaute 2 (Ago2) protein [ 119 , 120 , 121 ].siRNAs are easily to be generated and delivered in to target cells through transfection or electroporation. They can be applied as a pool of different siRNAs, or chemically modified siRNAs in order to reduce off-target effects [ 122 ]. The RNAi screening provides an efficient tool for finding of genes related to specific pathway, structure or function through combination of gene KD and its mutant phenotype [ 123 ].

The high-content RNAi screening targeting more than 2000 lncRNAs in HeLa cells identify several lncRNAs implicated in cell cycle crucial steps including chromosome segregation, mitotic duration and cytokinesis. The lncRNA linc00899 has been identified to control microtubule dynamics and hence, mitosis in different cell types. Mechanistic investigation identified that lncRNA linc00899 mediates the transcriptional repression of the tubulin polymerisation-promoting protein TPPP/p25. It was found that overexpression of TPPP increases tubulin acetylation and also microtubule stability via microtubule bundling and linc00899- depleted cells showed altered microtubule dynamics and delayed mitosis [ 124 ].

Antisense Oligonucleotides (ASOs)

ASOs are 12–25 nucleotide single-stranded chemically modified oligonucleotides that mediate RNAse H degradation of target RNA. RNAse H is a ubiquitous enzyme that cleave RNA in DNA-RNA duplex [ 125 ]. ASOs chemical modifications allow them to be easily delivered, active in both cytoplasm and nucleus and prevent their degradation by endonucleases and exonucleases [ 126 ].

As a part of FANTOM 6 project, which used antisense ASOs to KD 285 lncRNAs in primary human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) associated with molecular phenotyping using CAGE-seq, identified several lncRNAs associated with cell cycle defects, further supporting the role of lncRNAs in cell cycle progression. It was found that ZNF213-AS1 regulates HDF cells growth, migration, and proliferation [ 127 ].

However, ASO-mediated KD of lncRNA transcript may activates premature transcription termination, since ASOs can work on the nascent lncRNA transcript inducing its cleavage during the poly adenylation process resulting in degradation of the residual RNA polymerase II (Pol II)-associated RNA in XRN2-dependent manner. On the other hand, targeting the transcript 3’end with ASOs escapes the premature.

Transcription termination, therefore, the effect on transcription must be studied for proper use of ASOs on both experimental and therapeutic levels [ 128 ].

CRISPR/Cas9 System

Using artificial single chain guide RNA (sgRNA) and recombinant Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9, the targeted genome engineering of human cells become possible [ 129 , 130 ].

The action of sgRNA/Cas9 complex resulting in DNA double strand break (DSB) that can be further repaired by DSB repair pathways. The two major DSB repair pathways are template-dependent error-free homologous recombination (HR) and template-independent error-prone non-homologous end joining (NHEJ). NHEJ resulting in insertion/deletion (indel) mutations in the genomic DNA that induce gene KO, while HR can be used for gene substitution or gene knock-in (KI) through addition of DNA template [ 131 , 132 ].

Moreover, nuclease-null or dead Cas9 (dCas9) can be used as a precise tool of epigenetic regulation of gene expression [ 133 ]. dCas9 can be coupled to transcription repressor domain in CRISPR-interference (CRISPRi) system, such as Krüppel-associated box (KRAB) to inhibit transcription of multiple endogenous genes [ 134 ]. KRAB is a naturally-occurring transcriptional repression domain involved in recruitment of heterochromatin-forming complex that induces histone methylation and deacetylation [ 135 ]. On the other hand, dCas9 fused with transcription activator domain in CRISPR-activation (CRISPRa) system, such as the catalytic core of human histone acetylase p300, can activate gene expression from both promoters and enhancers [ 136 ].

Pooled CRISPR screening introduces numerous parallel genetic mutations into a pool of cells [ 137 ]. Pooled screening started with the design of genome-wide gRNA library to target hundreds to thousands of genes followed by a specific biological challenge, such as resistance to anticancer drug. Viruses are usually used for transfection and applied at low titres (multiplicity of infection, MOI, ~ 0.3), so that each cell can harbor one genetic perturbation. Then, enabling cells to grow under anticancer treatment allows the evaluation of phenotypic changes following the CRISPR-induced genetic perturbations through parallel sequencing of gRNAs [ 138 , 139 , 140 , 141 ]. This sequencing-based counting of gRNAs will identify those enriched or depleted after treatment. The CRISPR pooled screening identifies rated list of genes involved in the phenotype of interest [ 142 ].

A CRISPR/Cas9 genome-wide functional screening of lncRNAs has been applied, allowing the screening of 10,996 lncRNAs and the identification of 230 lncRNAs that are essential for cellular growth of chronic myeloid leukemia cells [ 143 ]. Additionally, using CRISPR/Cas9 library for genome-scale deletion of lncRNAs allow the identification of 51 lncRNAs that positively or negatively regulate HCC and HeLa cells growth and metastasis [ 144 ].

RNA-based cancer therapeutics

There are three siRNA drugs have been approved by FDA from 2018 to 2020 (patisiran, givosiran, and lumasiran) and seven other siRNA candidates in Phase III clinical trials (vutrisiran, nedosiran, inclisiran, fitusiran, teprasiran, cosdosiran, and tivanisiran). These siRNA drugs are indicated for non-cancerous rare or orphan diseases, whose patients have an urgent need for novel and effective therapies [ 145 ]. Also, there are variety of siRNA-based cancer therapeutics are in the early clinical trial stage. However, there are many challenges to siRNA drug development including; site-specific delivery, endosome trapping and risk of activation of an undesired immunogenic response [ 146 ]. Moreover, cancer is not a one gene disorder but a multifactor illness and siRNAs showed off target effects through incomplete base pairing of seed region with undesired target genes’ transcripts and that may lead to identification of false druggable targets and off-target toxicity of cancer drugs in clinical trials [ 147 , 148 , 149 ].

Due to lack of information for the tertiary structure for RNA molecules, including lncRNAs, ASOs represent an efficient tool to target lncRNAs based on the sequence alone in the pre-clinical studies [ 150 ]. The novel lncRNA AC104041.1 is overexpressed in head and neck squamous carcinoma (HNSCC), enhance tumor growth and metastasis in vitro and in vivo, and associated with poor survival of HNSCC patients. Using ASOs targeting AC104041.1 enhances salinomycin treatment efficacy in both HNSCC cells and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. Salinomycin is a highly effective antibiotic that eradicate cancer stem cells through Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Mechanistically, AC104041 acts as ceRNA for miR-6817-3p, inducing Wnt2B ligand stabilization and β-catenin activation allowing HNSCC cells proliferation and metastasis [ 151 , 152 ].

Moreover, significant decrease of MALAT1 expression levels using ASO-conjugated nanoparticles, reduces lung cancer cells migration in vitro and metastatic tumor nodule formation in vivo [ 153 ].

Furthermore, elevated levels of LINC00680 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) were associated with large tumor size, advanced tumor stage, and poor prognosis. Mechanistic investigation revealed that LINC00680 sponging miR-423-5p thus regulating the oncogene p21-activated kinase 6 (PAK6) expression in ESCC cells. ASOs targeting LINC00680 inhibit ESCC cells proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro and ESCC tumor formation in vivo [ 154 ].

Despite the use of different approaches to regulate lncRNAs expression pattern, lncRNAs can be used as therapeutic molecules to target EMT [ 155 ]. EMT-inducer SNAIL TF requires lncRNA HOTAIR to recruits EZH2 to its epithelial target genes to repress their expression. An approach was recently designed to counteract lncRNA HOTAIR-associated EMT that was based on the use of a deletion-mutant form of the lncRNA HOTAIR (HOTAIR-sbid). HOTAIR-sbid contains the TF SNAIL-binding domain but the EZH2-binding domain is absent. Mechanistically, HOTAIR-sbid binds to SNAIL but is unable to mediate the interaction between the SNAIL and the histone methyl transferase EZH2. This, in turn, reduces the H3K27me3/EZH2-mediated repression of epithelial SNAIL-target genes. HOTAIR-sbid expression impairs HCC cellular motility, invasiveness, anchorage-independent growth, and responsiveness to TGFβ-induced EMT [ 156 ].

Conclusion and perspectives

Metastasis is a multi-step process and considered a turning point in the fate of cancer progression and with regard to clinical outcome. Numerous factors and signaling pathways play an essential role in the metastasis of cancer cells in order to enhance their migration and invasion ability. EMT is the main feature of cancer cells metastasis and occurs through cytoskeleton remodeling, and their interaction with TME niche, including its cellular and non-cellular components.

Many studies showed that altered expression of lncRNAs correlated with cancer metastasis and poor clinical outcome. As with other hallmarks of cancer, lncRNAs regulate cancer cells metastasis through different signaling pathways, and metastasis-associated genes on both transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels by acting as guide/decoy for chromatin-modifying complexes or as ceRNA for anti-metastatic miRNAs.

Diverse approaches, including RNAi, ASOs and CRISPR-based methods, have yielded plentiful information about lncRNA functions and underlying mechanisms. Among these, genome-wide screening of lncRNA using pooled gRNA CRISPR/Cas9 approach to identify numerous cancer-associated lncRNAs altogether have proven itself a very powerful tool.

All the data generated so far about lncRNAs involvement in metastasis-associated pathways have brought quite valuable information to advance our knowledge about the topic. However, the transformation of this accumulated data into clinically useable information has not been yet achieved, neither as therapeutic tools nor as biomarkers predictive of clinical outcome. While the development of RNA-based therapeutics in the future may enable the targeting of lncRNAs, the main issue to be solved in our opinion would be the choice of target lncRNAs, reflected by the difficulties to define reliable lncRNA-based signature of clinical characteristics. These difficulties are inherent with the modes of actions of lncRNAs. Firstly, any ceRNA mode of action is dependent on the expression levels of the partner miRNA and targeted mRNAs. The relative amounts of each of these partners, as described in cell lines studies, might not reflect the overall clinical setting, and possibly impair the validity of predictive signatures or of potential therapeutic targets. Second, because of their ability to act through different mechanisms of action, the potential for off-target effects in vivo for lncRNA-based therapeutics appears quite high.

The recent development of patient-derived tumor organoids (PDTO) model systems may allow circumventing some of these problems. Compared to classical cancer cell lines, they have been shown to match with their tumor-of-origin both at the phenotypical and molecular level, and faithfully match patient’s response when exposed to drugs [ 157 , 158 ]. Moreover, these models allow the study of invasion-related phenotypes when grown in the appropriate matrixes [ 159 ]. Interestingly, recent studies managed to establish organoid models derived from circulating colorectal cancer cells. The resulting model did reflect the molecular and phenotypical characteristics of the circulating cancer cells, including their hybrid EMT state [ 160 ]. Organoid models thus appear as best suited than classical cell lines to identify lncRNAs of interest, as potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets of genuine clinical relevance. Further, in this regard circulating tumor cells-derived organoid should of special interest in the context of metastasis-associated characteristics.

Moreover, beyond the direct clinical relevance of modulating cytoskeleton or ECM related pathways as a mean to counter metastasis and cancer aggressiveness, the connections between microenvironment and ECM with immune signaling might offer an alternative way to predict or orientate the response to immunomodulatory drugs targeting PD-1/L1 or CTLA4 [ 161 , 162 ]. Whether this can be achieved with direct intervention on lncRNAs involved in these processes or by acting on the downstream determinants of their action by more usual approach with pharmacological inhibitors.

To conclude, while much has been done to study the roles and function of lncRNAs in metastasis-associated pathways in cancer, much more remains to be done. A more intensive use of genome wide screens for instance could help specify the most prominent lncRNAs in an extended repertoire of cancer types and/or model systems. In addition, the use of the most recent model systems for the study of cancer mechanisms and therapeutics would surely help in evidencing clinically-relevant lncRNAs modes of actions, and thus pave the way for the design of future therapeutic options.

Availability of data and materials

Not applicable.

Abbreviations

Extracellular matrix

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition

Transforming growth factor-β

Receptor tyrosine kinase

Long non-coding RNA

Polycomb repressive complex2

Enhancer of zeste homolog 2

Mixed-lineage leukemia

Transcription factors

Enhancer RNA

Splicing factor

Competing endogenous RNA

RNA-induced silencing complex

Epithelial cadherin

Neural cadherin

Matrix metalloproteinases

Zinc-finger E-box-binding

Ovarian cancer

Pro-transition associated RNA

Lung cancer

Pancreatic cancer

Hepatocellular carcinoma

SRY-related HMG-box 4

Activated by TGF-β

Breast cancer

Gastric cancer

Colorectal cancer

Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1

Filamentous

Ras homology

Cell division cycle 42

Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein serine/threonine kinase

Lung cancer associated transcript 1

Differentiation antagonizing nonprotein coding RNA

LIM domain kinase 1

ZNFX1 antisense RNA 1

P21-activated kinase 1

Tumor microenvironment

Cancer-associated fibroblasts

Collagen type (I)

HOX transcript antisense RNA

Non-small cell lung cancer

RNA interference

Antisense oligo nucleotides

Single guide RNA

Double strand break

Homologous recombination

Non-homologous end joining

Krüppel-associated box

Head and neck squamous carcinoma

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

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Acknowledgements

The researcher Mohammad AHMAD is funded a PhD full scholarship from the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research of the Arab Republic of Egypt. This work was supported by the Ligue Contre le Cancer (Normandy Confederation), the “Normandy Region”, the French State, Inserm (National Institute for Health and Medical Research), the “Cancéropôle” Nord-Ouest, the University of Caen Normandy and the Cancer Center F. Baclesse (Caen, France).

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Mohammad Ahmad, Louis-Bastien Weiswald, Laurent Poulain, Christophe Denoyelle & Matthieu Meryet-Figuiere

Comprehensive Cancer Center François Baclesse, UNICANCER, Caen, France

Biochemistry Division, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Damanhour University, Damanhour, 14000, Egypt

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MA conceptualized and drafted the manuscript and prepared the figure and table. LBW and LP revised the manuscript. MMF and CD contributed to the conceptualization, writing, reviewing and editing of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

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Ahmad, M., Weiswald, LB., Poulain, L. et al. Involvement of lncRNAs in cancer cells migration, invasion and metastasis: cytoskeleton and ECM crosstalk. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 42 , 173 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13046-023-02741-x

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Received : 13 March 2023

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.1186/s13046-023-02741-x

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NASA’s LRO Captures a Glimpse of South Korea’s Danuri Moon Orbiter in Action

D uring an orbital encounter last month, NASA’s veteran Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) successfully took several photographs of the Korea Aerospace Research Institute’s Danuri, marking an impressive feat in space coordination. The LRO has been continuously collecting data about the lunar surface for over 15 years and this occasion was no exception.

While in closely aligned orbits, the LRO’s high-resolution narrow angle camera from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera (LROC) system snapped images of Danuri during three of its orbits around the Moon. This occurred as the two spacecraft were swiftly moving in reverse paths on March 5 and 6, 2024.

Engineers at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, meticulously calculated the precise timing required for the LRO to photograph the South Korean lunar orbiter. Since Danuri was traveling at a relative velocity of about 1,500 kilometers per hour (approximately 7,200 miles per hour), the LROC had to have an exceptionally brief exposure time of just 0.338 milliseconds. Despite this, images show Danuri appearing elongated by a factor of ten due to the high-speed flyby.

The LRO project, spearheaded by the Goddard Space Flight Center for NASA’s Science Mission Directorate in Washington, has been instrumental in enriching our lunar knowledge base since its launch on June 18, 2009. With its advanced suite of scientific instruments, LRO’s contributions are vital as NASA, in collaboration with commercial and international partners, makes strides towards expanding human endeavors on the Moon and harnessing new scientific discoveries and opportunities.

Article contributions by Mark Robinson of Arizona State University, Tempe, and Lonnie Shekhtman at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.

For press inquiries, please contact:

Nancy N. Jones

NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.

FAQ Section

Q: What is the LRO?

A: The LRO, or Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, is a NASA mission that has been orbiting and studying the Moon for more than 15 years. It is equipped with a suite of instruments that help gather detailed information about the Moon’s surface.

Q: What is Danuri?

A: Danuri, also known as the Korea Pathfinder Lunar Orbiter (KPLO), is the first South Korean spacecraft sent to the Moon. It has been in lunar orbit since December 2022 and was developed by the Korea Aerospace Research Institute.

Q: How did the LRO manage to capture images of Danuri?

A: The LRO used its narrow angle camera to take images of Danuri during a close flyby. NASA engineers had to precisely time the camera exposure, which was extremely short due to the high relative velocity of the two spacecraft.

Q: Why are these images significant?

A: Capturing images of another spacecraft in orbit around the Moon is a difficult task due to the high speeds and precise timing required. These images demonstrate the capabilities of NASA’s LRO and showcase the potential for coordination between different space agency missions.

The successful imaging of South Korea’s Danuri orbiter by NASA’s LRO is a testament to the precision and technical prowess of space exploration efforts. The act not only brings attention to the ongoing scientific endeavors on and around our nearest celestial neighbor but also highlights the increasing collaboration in the international space community. With a continued focus on lunar exploration and the expansion of human activities into space, such instances of inter-agency collaboration pave the way for a future that is rich with interdisciplinary and international partnerships. It’s clear from this encounter that humanity’s quest to understand and explore the Moon is ever-evolving, and both the LRO and Danuri orbiters are poised to keep us looking upward with great anticipation for what discoveries may come next.