Documentation
Forms of documentation
Documentation is about capturing what is being done, how and why it is being done and who is involved in doing it. Given the complexity of client work and the other significant demands on workers and organisations, the ability to record and compile Action Research ‘on the run’ is a key to its successful incorporation into everyday work.
Documentation is about what was discussed and/or done at each stage of the Action Research cycle. There are many examples of types of documentation, such as:
- minutes from meetings
- notes from discussions with clients
- drawings, photos and other non-verbal or written sources
- surveys, questionnaires and their results
- butchers paper/ brainstorm notes
- flyers and information, samples of materials from other services
- policies and procedures (CMYI, 2006, p.21).
Action Research takes place over a period of time, sometimes even over a number of years. It is, therefore, very important to keep track of and document each stage of the cycle progressively from the outset to ensure that all relevant information on your Action Research is recorded and retained correctly. You will find that this will help you to easily retrieve any required information and make reporting easier. To this end, you should set up and implement a system to keep together information from the start of your Action Research cycle.
The four main reasons for documentation are:
- To ensure that your information is accessible to your stakeholders as this enables them to learn, participate and be involved in further Action Research cycles.
- To learn – reflecting and documenting your work will enable you the opportunity to look at the big picture, therefore minimising mistakes.
- To collect empirical evidence – demonstrating results is necessary for ongoing service improvement and for meeting funding requirements.
- To share with others – documentation is an important part of your work as it enables you to share your work with colleagues and services conducting similar work. This can help others save time and offers more people the opportunity to improve their work practices and share their learning.
There are many ways to document Action Research. Some examples you may find useful are in the Reconnect Action Research Kit (2000).