Action Research Outline Assignment: ePortfolios in Elementary Education
As Mertler (2019) notes, action research allows educators to investigate and improve specific practices within their educational environments through a cyclical and practical methodology. This study focuses on using ePortfolios as a tool to develop reading comprehension and critical thinking skills in elementary students, based on the COVA approach—Choice, Ownership, Voice, and Authentic learning experiences—described by Harapnuik and Thibodeaux (2023). Qualitative and quantitative data are collected and analyzed through a mixed-methods design recommended by Creswell and Plano Clark (2018) to gain a comprehensive understanding of educational interventions. This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of ePortfolios in enhancing essential skills such as reading comprehension and critical thinking while fostering active participation and autonomy in student learning. As discussed by Gulamhussein (2013), this approach seeks to move away from traditional assessments to promote a more meaningful and authentic learning environment.
References
Creswell, J. W., & Plano Clark, V. L. (2018). Designing and Conducting Mixed Methods Research (3ª ed.). SAGE Publications.
Gulamhussein, A. (2013). Teaching the teachers: Effective professional development in an era of high stakes accountability. Center for Public Education.
Harapnuik, D., & Thibodeaux, T. (2023). COVA: Inspire learning through choice, ownership, voice, and authentic learning experiences. Educational Resource Development.
Mertler, C. A. (2019). Investigación-acción: Mejorar las escuelas y empoderar a los educadores (6ª ed.). SAGE Publications, Inc.