Which of the following is a form of research typically conducted by teachers, counselors, and other professionals to answer questions they have and to specifically help them solve local problems?

Which of the following is a form of research typically conducted by teachers, counselors, and other professionals to answer questions they have and to specifically help them solve local problems?

Options:
(a) Action research
(b) Basic research
(c) Predictive research
(d) Orientational research

✅ Correct Option: (a) Action research

Explanation:

Action research is a practical and problem-solving form of research conducted by practitioners such as teachers, counselors, and school administrators to improve their own practices. Unlike basic research, which aims at theory building, action research focuses on immediate classroom or institutional problems. It involves identifying a problem, planning an intervention, implementing it, observing results, and reflecting on outcomes. Action research is localized, context-specific, and improvement-oriented. Teachers use it to enhance teaching methods, classroom management, and student learning outcomes. It promotes reflective practice and professional growth. Because it directly addresses real-world educational challenges, action research is highly valuable in educational settings. Therefore, it is the most suitable research form for solving local problems.

10 PPSC-Oriented Facts:

  1. Action research is practitioner-based.
  2. It solves local problems.
  3. Teachers commonly conduct it.
  4. It improves classroom practices.
  5. Reflection is central to action research.
  6. It is cyclic in nature.
  7. Focuses on improvement, not theory.
  8. Results are context-specific.
  9. Encourages professional development.
  10. Enhances teaching effectiveness