Action Research for Second Language Teachers: Going Beyond Teacher Research

Abstract

In this paper I outline the history of action research, and distinguish between two kinds of action research, both of considerable importance and utility to the second language (SL) field. I then discuss action research reports, which may have been a source of some concerns expressed as to the quality of action research. Although action research reports may take forms different from those of orthodox research, I suggest that they are of interest and potential benefit to both the regular SL teacher and the profession as a whole.