Promoting Authentic Learning by Engaging in "Real-World" Research

Abstract

In this chapter, the authors describe the benefits of engaging in action research in a counselor education program. Action research is defined, and the concepts are illustrated with examples from one such project (i.e., "Finding Their Voice"). Additionally, the process of "learning by doing" (Dewey, 1897) is illustrated throughout the chapter with examples from the current project. The authors advocate for implementing action research in education as a means of increasing authenticity in learning. The authors discuss the benefits of action research in counselor education, and the authors describe ways in which members of other academic disciplines might infuse this collection of activities into their own curriculum.