Summary of "La Investigación Acción: "Modelo de Elliot""

Summary of “La Investigación Acción: ‘Modelo de Elliot’”

This instructional video explains John Elliott’s model of Action Research, emphasizing its relevance, methodology, and application in educational contexts, particularly within classrooms and schools. It also contrasts different perspectives on action research, including European, Anglo-Saxon, and Latin American contributions.

Main Ideas and Concepts

Action Research Overview

Action research is a participatory, cyclical process aimed at solving practical problems through reflection and action. Different traditions include:

European/Western: e.g., Kurt Lewin
Anglo-Saxon: e.g., John Elliott, Helio Kemmis, Vitam
Latin American: e.g., F.S. Borda, Paulo Freire

John Elliott’s model is notable for its focus on classroom and school settings.

Key Literature

The book Action Research by Antonio de la Torre is recommended for understanding the modalities and processes of action research, including its emancipatory potential.

John Elliott’s Model of Action Research

The model is cyclical and consists of three main cycles, each involving phases of planning, action, observation, and reflection.

Phases of Elliott’s Model

Identification of a General Idea or Problem
- Clearly describe and interpret the problem.
- Formulate an action hypothesis (a strategic plan for change, not a testable hypothesis like in quantitative research).
Planning
- Develop a general plan based on the action hypothesis.
- The plan typically consists of three specific actions.
Implementation
- Carry out the plan in practice.
- Use research instruments (e.g., surveys, observation guides) to collect data.
Observation and Evaluation
- Review the implementation and analyze its effects.
- Identify successes and failures.
Reflection and Adjustment
- Reflect on the outcomes and revise the plan accordingly.
- Prepare for the next cycle with improved strategies.

Detailed Breakdown of the Three Cycles

Cycle 1:
- Problem identification and initial planning.
- Example problem: lack of curriculum evaluation in classroom teaching.
- Actions include diagnosis, instrument design, and data collection planning.
Cycle 2:
- Implementation of the plan from cycle 1.
- Data collection (e.g., surveys, observations) and reflection on results.
- Identification of needed changes or improvements.
Cycle 3:
- Implementation of changes based on cycle 2 reflections.
- Further observation and evaluation of these changes.
- Final evaluation to determine if the problem has been effectively addressed.
- Possible conclusion of the research or continuation if necessary.

Action Hypothesis vs. Research Assumption

The action hypothesis in Elliott’s model is not a testable statement but a guiding plan for action and transformation.
In contrast, quantitative research uses hypotheses to verify or falsify conjectures, while qualitative research uses assumptions as guiding statements.

Participatory and Collaborative Nature

Action research requires collaboration with colleagues, students, and other stakeholders.
It promotes horizontal, participatory relationships rather than hierarchical research dynamics.

Practical Example

The video uses the example of evaluating curriculum implementation in classrooms. The process involves diagnosing current practice, designing data collection tools, implementing the plan, reviewing outcomes, and making adjustments through cycles.

Methodology / Instructions Based on Elliott’s Model

Identify a General Problem or Idea
- Define the problem clearly and concretely.
- Discuss and share the problem with stakeholders.
Formulate an Action Hypothesis
- Create a strategic plan aimed at transforming the problem situation.
Develop a General Plan with Three Actions Example actions:
- Conduct a diagnosis of the current situation.
- Design instruments for data collection (surveys, observation guides).
- Plan the actual data collection process.
Implement the Plan (Cycle 1)
- Carry out the three actions.
- Collect data and observe the process.
Review and Reflect (Cycle 2)
- Analyze the data collected.
- Identify what worked and what didn’t.
- Reflect on the findings with stakeholders.
Adjust and Re-Implement (Cycle 3)
- Modify the plan based on reflections.
- Implement changes.
- Conduct further observations and evaluations.
Final Evaluation and Decision
- Determine whether the changes have resolved the problem.
- Decide if further cycles are necessary.

Speakers / Sources Featured

Primary Speaker:
- Unnamed instructor or presenter explaining John Elliott’s model of action research.
Authors and Theorists Mentioned:
- John Elliott (main focus)
- Kurt Lewin (European tradition)
- Helio Kemmis (Anglo-Saxon tradition)
- Antonio de la Torre (author of the book Action Research)
- F.S. Borda and Paulo Freire (Latin American perspectives)

This summary captures the instructional content and methodology presented in the video on John Elliott’s model of action research, emphasizing its cyclical nature, participatory approach, and practical application in educational settings.