Key Question: What do I want to accomplish?

In Stage 1, action researchers clearly enunciate their goals, clarify each of the subskills or attributes that contribute to success for each goal, and specify detailed criteria that can be used with validity and reliability to document improvement.

Stage 2: Articulating Theory

Key Question: What do I believe is the approach with the greatest potential for achieving my goal(s)?

In this stage, action researchers articulate a detailed rationale for proceeding in a particular fashion....When there is no proven best way to accomplish a goal, professionals will often pursue alternative approaches that they deem theoretically sound. It is in Stage 2 that action researchers engage in a deliberate planning process that involves examining and incorporating all of the dynamic relationships between the relevant factors or variables that might influence success in realizing the vision or targets identified in Stage 1

Stage 3: Implementing Action and Collecting Data

Key Question: What data will I need to collect to understand the efficacy and workings of my theory of action?

This is the portion of the action research process that takes place during actual teaching, our professional action. It is here that we carry through on our theory of action while systematically compiling information (data) to help us understand what is going on, both above and below the surface. This is where we determine what is being accomplished and the relationship between the actions being taken and the results being obtained.

Stage 4: Reflecting on the Data and Planning Informed Action

Key Question: Based on this data, how should I adjust my future actions (teaching)?

Stage 4 is where we complete the first lap around the action research cycle. It is here that action researchers return and revisit their visions or targets (Stage 1) as well as their previous thinking on the best way to realize that vision (Stage 2). Then based on data regarding the impact of their actions (Stage 3) and an analysis of those data, action researchers produce a revised theory of action, which then forms the basis for future action.