Action Research Selection

The action research study I selected is:
Goodman-Scott, E., Doyle, B., & Brott, P. (2013). An Action Research Project to Determine the
Utility of Bully Prevention in Positive Behavior Support for Elementary School Bullying
Prevention. Professional School Counseling, 17(1), 120.
I chose the topic “safe classroom environment” because I feel that safety within the
learning spaces is critical to the wellbeing of the learners. As an educator, I must be aware of
what it takes to ensure that the classroom environment is space. Also, since safe space is created
both in the students’ minds as well as in the physical environment, it takes a lot to create safe
environments. Thus, it is a topic that I felt needs research so that I am well equipped with the
skills and knowledge that I will require in my future endeavor as a classroom teacher. Besides,
for learning to be optimum, the teacher has a responsibility to create a non-threatening
atmosphere. I feel that it is not a difficult task as long as the educator is well equipped with the
necessary skills and information.
In my quest to foster safety within the classroom environment, I understand that learners
will be my biggest ally. I have a responsibility to create a space where the students are willing to
open their minds and actually listen and engage in different activities geared towards
empowering them to achieve their highest potential. I also know that as an educator, I need to
work on myself so that I can lead by example when it comes to creating safe spaces for my
students. However, even as I work on myself, I know that my students and other people within
the learning environment can be my largest impediment when it comes to creating a safe space

within the classroom environment. Bullying is one of the barriers to safe learning spaces. This
explains why I chose an action research proposal that relates to bullying prevention because the
elimination of bullying goes a long way in securing not only the physical space but the mental as
well.
The topic, “safe classroom environment,” supports my future professional goals. As an
educator, I envision myself handling an inclusive classroom, where students engage in the
learning process in a safe and non-threatening environment. Thus, by researching this topic, I am
preparing myself for the task ahead. I believe that my success as a teacher will not only be
reflected by the grades that my students will score but also by my ability to enhance the mental
wellbeing of my students. Having a bullying prevention program or a zero-tolerance policy
against bullying helps ensure that students are safe from being bullied by other members of the
school community, whether fellow students or staff members. I look forward to a classroom
environment that will not tolerate bullying, intimidation, or terrorism. Conducting this research
will prepare me on how to create a learning environment that will be focused on fostering
positive relationships between students and members of staff, maintain high standards and
academic achievement. I know that students may react to violence or threatening situations by
either avoiding them or resending violently. None of these responses are effective in conflict
resolution. In creating a safe environment, students need to be equipped with effective conflict
resolution techniques. My future professional success depends partly on how well I prepare now
hence the need to carry out research and equip myself with the necessary skills and information.