ABSTRACT
Action research is a powerful tool that can be used by teaching centers to improve teaching and learning. This article describes an action research project conducted at the Center for Research on Learning and Teaching (CRLT) at the University of Michigan. The project concerns retention and attrition in science gateway courses, with particular attention given to the role of the Teaching Assistant. The article concludes with a discussion of six principles for teaching center staff who wish to conduct their own action research projects.
