Research tools used in action research Action research project course-code-8613 Allama Iqbal Open University

1. Tools in
Action
Research
Dr. Hina Jalal
(@AksEAina)
hinansari23@gmail.com
Dr. HJ(@AksEAina), hinansari23@gmail.com

2. Tools
Observation
Self-Report
Rating Scale
Anecdotal
Records
Peer
Appraisal
Check List
Dr. HJ(hinansari23@gmail.com/@AksEAina)
A research instrument can include interviews,
tests, surveys, or checklists. The Research
Instrument is usually determined by researcher
and is tied to the study methodology. This
document offers some examples of research
instruments and study methods.

3. Case Studies
A case study is usually an in-depth description of a
process, experience, or structure at a single
institution. In order to answer a combination of
‘what’ and ‘why’ questions, case studies generally
involve a mix of quantitative (i.e., surveys, usage
statistics, etc.) and qualitative (i.e., interviews, focus
groups, extant document analysis, etc.) data
collection techniques. Most often, the researcher will
analyze quantitative data first and then use qualitative
strategies to look deeper into the meaning of the
trends identified in the numerical data.
Dr. HJ(hinansari23@gmail.com/@AksEAina)

4. Checklists
Checklists structure a person’s observation or
evaluation of a performance or artifact. They can
be simple lists of criteria that can be marked as
present or absent, or can provide space for
observer comments. These tools can provide
consistency over time or between observers.
Checklists can be used for evaluating databases,
virtual IM service, the use of library space, or for
structuring peer observations of instruction
sessions.
Dr. HJ(hinansari23@gmail.com/@AksEAina)

5. Interviews
In-Depth Interviews include both individual interviews (e.g., one-on-one) as well as
“group” interviews (including focus groups). The data can be recorded in a wide
variety of ways including stenography, audio recording, video recording or written
notes. In depth interviews differ from direct observation primarily in the nature of the
interaction. In interviews it is assumed that there is a questioner and one or more
interviewees. The purpose of the interview is to probe the ideas of the interviewees
about the phenomenon of interest.
Dr. HJ(hinansari23@gmail.com/@AksEAina)

6. Types of Interviews
A structured interview
(Formal interview or
guided interview):
Unstructured interview
(Informal interview or
conversational interview)
Group interview: Panel interview
(Committee Interview):
Individual or One-to-one
interview
(Personal interview):
Depth interview
(In-depth interview):
Dr. HJ(hinansari23@gmail.com/@AksEAina)

7. Observation
Sometimes, the best way to collect data through observation. This can be done
directly or indirectly with the subject knowing or unaware that you are observing
them. You may choose to collect data through continuous observation or via set time
periods depending on your project. You may interpret data you gather using the
following mechanisms:
Descriptive observations: you simply write down what you observe
Inferential observations: you may write down an observation that is inferred by the
subject’s body language and behavior.
Evaluativ observation:
You may make an inference and therefore a judgment from the behavior. Make sure
you can replicate these findings.
Dr. HJ(hinansari23@gmail.com/@AksEAina)

8. OBSERVATION
TypesComplete Observer Observer as Participant
Participant as Observer Complete Participant
Subjective and Objective
Structured and Un structured
observation
Natural and Artificial Observation
Participant and Non-participant
observation
Dr. HJ(hinansari23@gmail.com/@AksEAina)

9. Surveys or Questionnaires
Surveys or questionnaires are instruments used for collecting data in survey
research. They usually include a set of standardized questions that explore a specific
topic and collect information about demographics, opinions, attitudes, or
behaviors. Three popular programs that allow you to create online surveys
are Google Forms, Survey Monkey, and Poll Everywhere. A great (low-cost) tool for
reference statistics is Gimlet.
Dr. HJ(hinansari23@gmail.com/@AksEAina)

10. QUESTIONNAIRE
Sample
Dr. HJ(hinansari23@gmail.com/@AksEAina)

11. Dr. Hina Jalal (Ph.D. Education)
(hinansari23@gmail.com/
@AksEAina)