Research

I'm currently working on an action research project that is helping me define and deliver quality online peer assessment. I'm really trying to get this right because teaching in the arts requires good peer review mechanisms. During face-to-face or in-person classes, much of arts education is performing or creating followed by peer and professional review. In any of the performing arts, directors and conductors "give notes". In the visual arts, we critique.              

The Difference Between Traditional Research and Action Research

Traditional Research:

This type of research is like a science experiment. A researcher starts with a question, studies it by gathering data (like numbers or facts), and then shares their results, usually in a report or article. The goal is to discover new knowledge or prove a theory. For example, a scientist might study how different types of plants grow under different lights. Traditional research is often done in a lab or other controlled settings, and it doesn’t always directly affect the people involved.

Action Research:

Action research is more hands-on and practical. Instead of just studying a problem, the researcher works on solving it while they’re studying it. This type of research is often done by teachers, community workers, or other people in real-world settings. For example, a teacher might notice their students are struggling with reading and try out a new way of teaching. While doing this, the teacher collects data, sees what works or doesn’t, and makes changes to improve learning. The goal is to make things better right away, not just learn about them.

The Big Difference:

Traditional research focuses on finding out new information for the future, while action research focuses on solving a current problem and improving things as the research happens. Traditional research is usually done by experts, while action research is often done by the people who are directly involved in the situation.

Comparison of Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods

Aspect	Quantitative Research	Qualitative Research
Purpose	To measure and analyze numerical data.	To explore and understand experiences or ideas.
Focus	"How much," "how many," or "how often."	"Why" and "how."
Data Type	Numbers and statistics.	Words, descriptions, and observations.
Methods of Data Collection	Surveys, experiments, polls, and tests.	Interviews, focus groups, observations, and content analysis.
Analysis	Uses mathematical and statistical tools.	Identifies themes, patterns, and meanings.
Outcome	Results are presented in charts, graphs, or percentages.	Results are presented as stories, quotes, or themes.
Example Question	"How many students scored above 90% on the test?"	"Why do students feel anxious about tests?"
Strengths	Provides measurable, generalizable results.	Offers deep insights into emotions and behaviors.
Limitations	May miss the "why" behind the numbers.	Cannot be easily generalized to a large group.

This table highlights how quantitative research focuses on measurable data and statistics, while qualitative research provides rich, detailed insights into people’s thoughts and experiences. Both methods can complement each other to give a full picture of a research topic.