Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book aims to provide clarification of what action research particularly might involve. It offers specific practical support on how to plan, implement, and evaluate projects by practitioners using action research and an impact evaluation approach. The book aims to act as a scaffold, by breaking down complex ideas and activity into simple achievable steps, for early years practitioners in undertaking action research or teacher enquiry so that they feel confident and empowered to make changes to benefit the children in their setting. It aims to develop practitioner confidence to make changes using an action research cycle approach. The book sets out in easy-to-follow sections starting with clear definitions and explanations of action research. These are accompanied by a commentary on how these can be applied to early years settings to address local questions or issues around how to improve outcomes for children.