A Process for Reflective Inquiry

As Ohle and Morley (1994) note, "when we slow down and examine a problem, we increase the chances of solving the right problem once instead of the wrong problem a dozen times". The following four-phase inquiry process can help you do exactly that - slow down and examine your problems more carefully, so that you ask the right questions, identify the real problems, and develop successful solutions.

Phase 1: Data-based Needs Assessment
Phase 2: Identification of System Needs and Action Planning
Phase 3: Implementation
Phase 4: Evaluation/Reflection

Examples of Reflective Inquiry

To illustrate these phases, we also provide detailed examples of the systemic implications of three improvement initiatives schools are likely to undertake. You may notice that each of these initiatives closely relates to particular components in one of the three domains. It is important to note, however, that even though these initiatives may initially "begin" in only one particular domain, they are carried out in all three domains. This is in fact, a key message of this Web site.

Example 1: Implementing standards in the classroom
Example 2: Linking staff development to study learning
Example 3: Responding to accountability demands