| Abstract [eng] |
SUMMARY Topic: “The Teacher as a Researcher of His Own Activity: Challenges and Opportunities for Professional Development“ Action research is recognised in scientific studies in various countries as an effective means of professional development for teachers. However, in Lithuania, the role of teachers as researchers of their own practice, their activities and the related challenges and opportunities have not been sufficiently explored. there is a lack of systematic understanding of the significance of this practice for the quality of teachers' pedagogical activities, their professional development and changes in educational institutions, possibly due to the fact that research-based teacher practice is not common in Lithuania. The object of the study is the experiences of teachers who carry out action research. The aim of the study is to identify the challenges and opportunities experienced by teachers in carrying out action research in order to improve their professional practice. Research objectives: 1. To identify the main challenges and difficulties faced by teachers when conducting action research. 2. To analyse the changes observed by teachers who have conducted action research. 3. To identify the factors that encourage teachers to conduct action research. 4. To find out what teachers know about action research as a form of professional development and what reasons determine its non-application in practice. Research methods: analysis of scientific literature, document analysis, semi-structured interviews, qualitative content analysis. Empirical research data showed that when conducting action research, teachers face a lack of time, knowledge and skills, low motivation, and feel emotionally insecure due to shame, fear of criticism, self-doubt and an inability to admit their mistakes. Changes influenced by action research include increased teacher self-awareness, the creation of a learning community, increased teacher personal mastery and professionalism, student progress and the development of a culture of trust. Teachers are encouraged to conduct action research by the culture of the learning community, a sense of community, support from leaders, aspirations for professional and personal development and student progress, and the personal qualities of the teacher. Key words: professional development of teachers, action research. |
