Introduction
Action research is a practical problem-solving process used by teachers, administrators, and researchers to improve educational practices. Among its various methods, the experimental method is particularly useful when we want to test the effectiveness of a new idea, teaching strategy, or intervention in a controlled way.
The experimental method of action research involves introducing a planned change and observing its effects while controlling for other factors that might influence the outcome. It helps establish cause-and-effect relationships, making it highly reliable for decision-making in educational settings.
Meaning of Experimental Method in Action Research
The experimental method is a scientific approach where the researcher:
Introduces a specific intervention or change (the “treatment”).
Observes and measures the effect of this intervention.
Compares results before and after the change or between different groups.
In education, it could be testing:
A new teaching strategy.
A different classroom arrangement.
The use of technology or learning aids.
Example:
If a teacher wants to test whether using interactive videos improves students’ understanding of science concepts, they can implement the experimental method by introducing the videos and comparing test results before and after.
Characteristics of Experimental Method
Planned intervention – The change is deliberate and well-planned.
Controlled environment – Efforts are made to reduce outside influences.
Use of pre- and post-tests – To measure improvement accurately.
Cause-and-effect focus – Aims to establish a direct link between action and outcome.
Quantitative analysis – Often uses statistical data for reliability.
Steps of Experimental Method in Action Research
The process follows a systematic approach:
1. Identify the Problem
Choose a problem that is specific, measurable, and can be tested experimentally.
Example: Students show low retention in history lessons.
2. Formulate the Hypothesis
State what you expect to happen after the intervention.
Example: Using storytelling techniques will improve history lesson retention among students.
3. Select the Sample
Choose participants for the study – could be a whole class or selected groups.
4. Design the Experiment
Decide whether to use control and experimental groups.
Ensure groups are similar in background and ability.
Plan the intervention duration and activities.
5. Implement the Intervention
Introduce the planned change (e.g., storytelling lessons) to the experimental group, while the control group follows the usual method.
6. Collect Data
Conduct a pre-test before intervention.
Conduct a post-test after intervention.
Use observation checklists, performance records, or feedback forms.
7. Analyze the Data
Compare pre-test and post-test scores to see if there’s a significant improvement in the experimental group compared to the control group.
8. Draw Conclusions
Decide whether the hypothesis was correct.
Example: If scores improved significantly in the experimental group, storytelling was effective.
9. Reflect and Apply
Reflect on the process and apply successful strategies in regular teaching.
Example of Experimental Method in Action Research
Topic: Effect of Peer-Assisted Learning on Reading Comprehension
Problem: Low reading comprehension scores in Grade 5.
Hypothesis: Peer-assisted learning will improve comprehension.
Sample: Two sections of Grade 5 – one control group, one experimental group.
Intervention: 6 weeks of peer-assisted reading sessions.
Data Collection: Pre-test and post-test.
Results: Experimental group scores improved by 20%, control group by only 5%.
Conclusion: Peer-assisted learning was effective.
Advantages of Experimental Method
Clear cause-and-effect relationships – Helps identify exactly what caused the change.
High reliability – Produces measurable, verifiable results.
Scientific approach – Reduces personal bias.
Useful for innovation – Tests new strategies before full implementation.
Applicable to various subjects – Works in science, mathematics, languages, etc.
Limitations of Experimental Method
Time-consuming – Planning, implementation, and analysis take time.
Requires resources – May need special tools, materials, or extra staff.
Not always fully controlled – In real classrooms, outside factors can still influence results.
Ethical concerns – Withholding potentially beneficial interventions from the control group can be an issue.
May not capture qualitative changes – Focuses more on measurable outcomes than emotional or behavioral changes.
Tips for Effective Experimental Action Research
Keep groups similar – Ensures fairness in comparison.
Limit variables – Focus on one change at a time.
Record observations – Alongside test scores, note behavioral changes.
Communicate with participants – Keep students informed and motivated.
Be flexible – Adjust if unexpected challenges arise.
Comparison with Other Methods
| Feature | Experimental Method | Diagnostic Method | Case Study Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Test effectiveness of an intervention | Identify root cause of a problem | Study a case in depth |
| Approach | Controlled and measurable | Investigative | Holistic |
| Data | Mostly quantitative | Mixed | Mixed |
| Generalization | High | Moderate | Low |
Conclusion
The experimental method of action research is a powerful way to test new strategies and teaching methods in a systematic, scientific, and reliable manner. By carefully planning the intervention, collecting accurate data, and analyzing results, educators can make informed decisions that enhance student learning outcomes.
While it has certain limitations, its ability to establish clear cause-and-effect relationships makes it one of the most widely used methods in educational research. For the best results, researchers should combine quantitative findings with reflective insights, ensuring that the approach remains both data-driven and learner-centered.
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