Action Research as a Tool for Pre-service Teacher Empowerment: A Two-Cycle Study

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Sunday 7:45 am - Gold 3
  In Roundtable Session: Action Research as an Intellectual, Professional, Pedagogical, and Methodological Tool for Pre-Service Teacher Empowerment and Continuous Growth

Abstract

This study investigates how a two-cycle action research-based training program can be designed, implemented, and refined to empower pre-service teachers. A two-cycle action research design was employed in 2023 and 2024 to develop, implement, and refine a professional development program introducing pre-service teachers to action research. Over two years, using criterion sampling, 47 selected participants engaged in a 42-hour training that integrated theoretical knowledge with practical collaborative project design. Data included open-ended pre- and post-questionnaires, daily reflections, group projects, and facilitator field notes. Findings from Cycle 1 informed revisions that improved content clarity, practical engagement, and facilitator support in Cycle 2. Study demonstrates how action research can function both as a methodology and a pedagogical approach to enrich teacher education.

Authors

• Neslihan Gok Ayyildiz, Middle East Technical University

• Pervin Oya Taneri, Middle East Technical University

• Gonca Cınar Bent, Middle East Technical University