Action research provides a way of working which links theory and practice into one whole: ideas-in-action. There are four main phrases to action research which make up one “complete” cycle:

1. Problem-posting — discussing a problem, question, or issue with others;
2. Planning — developing a plan to address some or all of the problem;
3. Observing — collecting data during and after the project; and
4. Reflecting — comparing results with a baseline to see if change occurred.