Description
This course equips coaches with the knowledge and skills to implement action research as a powerful tool for improving educational practices and outcomes. Participants will explore the theoretical foundations and practical applications of action research methodology, learning to systematically collect, analyze, and interpret data to enhance coaching effectiveness and literacy instruction. Through hands-on activities and collaborative discussions, coaches will develop proficiency in designing and conducting action research projects that address specific literacy challenges in their educational settings.
The course emphasizes evidence-based approaches aligned with the SC Literacy Competencies for Reading Coaches, focusing particularly on data-driven decision making, collaborative professional development, and creating supportive literacy environments. Participants will learn to establish SMART goals, implement the PDSA (Plan-Do-Study-Act) cycle for continuous improvement, and utilize research-based literacy strategies to foster student achievement. By engaging in reflective practice and professional collaboration, coaches will strengthen their ability to support teachers in developing effective instruction that meets the diverse needs of all learners. Upon completion, participants will be empowered to serve as educational leaders who use action research to drive meaningful, sustainable improvements in literacy teaching and learning.
Note- Participants will implement their action plans during Session Three as a trial run for this class. Although research suggests that action research usually requires a timeframe of at least 5-6 weeks to effectively allow the intervention to take hold and facilitate meaningful data collection and analysis, this exercise aims to help coaches become familiar with the process so they can implement it independently in the future.
This course is for professional development credit only. VirtualSC PD courses do not count towards any type of degree.
Course Outline
Week 1: Student Orientation
Week 2: Introduction to Action Research: Understanding Literacy Competencies and Identifying Challenges
Week 3: Planning Phase of Action Research
Week 4: Implementing the PDSA Cycle in Action Research
Week 5: Analyzing Results and Reflecting
Week 6: Acting on Data-Driven Insights
Week 7: Reflecting on Action Research, PDSA Cycle, and the SC Literacy Competencies for Reading Coaches
Prerequisites
This is an advanced level course for teachers, literacy coaches, curriculum specialists, professional development specialists, or other school personnel. Participants are expected to have regular access to computers with Internet access. They will also need speakers and a microphone (or a headset or telephone) to participate in the Virtual Meeting sessions. In addition, participants should be proficient with browsing the Internet, uploading and downloading content, navigating to computer files, and with using word processing software, email, and attachments.
This course is one of two that leads to certification as a literacy coach. Prior to completion of this course, the participant should have already successfully completed each of the following Read to Succeed endorsement courses:
- Foundations of Reading
- Content Area Reading and Writing (any approved “Content Area Reading and Writing” course)
- Instructional Strategies for Reading
- Assessment of Reading
Required Materials
All materials in this course are the property of the South Carolina Department of Education Office of VirtualSC PD. All course materials needed/required for the workshop are available online.
Registration
When you register for a graduate course there are two steps: first with VirtualSC PD and then with The College of Charleston. Upon registration with VirtualSC PD, directions will be emailed to you for completing registration with The College of Charleston. Check the email used to create your Genius account often.
- Registration with The College of Charleston is required for each graduate course in order for credit to be awarded.