Transformative Inquiry
Integrating Action Research and Systems Thinking
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Published: November 2025
9781975507480
$44.95
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Publisher: Myers Education Press
6" x 9"Language: English
Transformative Inquiry: Integrating Action Research and Systems Thinking explores how two dynamic methodologies—action research and systems thinking—can be combined to address complex challenges in education, healthcare, organizational leadership, and public policy. Grounded in participatory, iterative processes, both approaches emphasize collaboration, reflection, and systemic improvement. Together, they provide a flexible yet rigorous framework for change.
This edited volume brings together scholars and practitioners to examine the historical foundations, theoretical intersections, and applied integration of action research and systems thinking. Chapters include conceptual models and case studies drawn from K–12 schools, higher education, health professions education, digital learning environments, and leadership development. Contributors demonstrate how these frameworks support root-cause analysis, stakeholder engagement, and adaptive interventions that move beyond surface-level solutions.
Each chapter illustrates how reflective cycles of inquiry, when combined with systems thinking tools such as feedback loops and mental models, can uncover persistent barriers and guide meaningful, context-sensitive change. Topics include digital equity, culturally responsive pedagogy, instructional redesign, performance improvement, and professional learning.
Transformative Inquiry will be of interest to scholars, educators, researchers, and practitioners seeking tools for leading improvement in complex systems. It supports graduate and doctoral-level courses in research methods, systems change, and leadership, as well as professional learning in schools, universities, and organizations.
List of Figures and Tables
Acknowledgments
Foreword
Chapter 1
Introduction
by M. Elizabeth Azukas and Suha R. Tamim
Section I - Action Research and Systems Thinking in K-12 Settings
Chapter 2
Applying the S-STAR Method to Plan, Analyze, and Improve a Digital Learning Initiative
by M. Elizabeth Azukas
Chapter 3
Service Improvement of the Media Specialist, Media Program, and Media Center: An Action Research Study
by Jennifer B. Hurtt and Minkyoung Kim
Chapter 4
Is that Normal in America? A Systems Approach to Supporting International Teachers
by Amanda Hajji Minnillo
Chapter 5
A Systems Approach to Addressing Online Teaching Challenges and Enhancing Performance
by Karen Roper and Minkyoung Kim
Section II - Action Research and Systems Thinking in Higher Education Settings
Chapter 6
Making Action Research a Practice, Not Just a Project, in Preservice Teacher Education
by Catherine Lammert
Chapter 7
Strategies for Improving Academic Success and Identity Development in Health Professions Students
by Molly Paguaga
Section III - Action Research and Systems Thinking in Healthcare and Health Education settings
Chapter 8
Addressing Problem Complexity Using Systems Thinking Action Research
by Teresa S. Cronell
Chapter 9
Systems Thinking for Health Professions Students in the Medical Education Ecosystem
by Dana Powell Baker
Chapter 10
Inclusive & Equitable Learning Design: Integrating Systems Thinking and Action Research in Generative AI-Driven Educational Content Creation
by Arpita Pal
Chapter 11
The Ripple Effect: Faculty Development Drives Systemic Change in Health Equity
by Christina B. Gunther and Kathleen S. Fries
Section IV - Action Research and Systems Thinking in Corporate and Military Environments
Chapter 12
Improving Defense Acquisition Process Timelines in a Military System Program Office
by John H. Armstrong, Jr. and Holley Handley
Chapter 13
Development of a New Global Training Model as a Performance Improvement Solution
by Robin Brandenburg and Holley Handley
About the Authors
Index
NOTE: Table of Contents subject to change up until publication date.
Reviews & Endorsements:
“Transformative Inquiry: Integrating Action Research and Systems Thinking is a mandatory acquisition for any College of Education library. As an Academic Librarian and Instructional Designer, I see Transformative Inquiry filling a critical gap in practitioner literature. The thirteen case studies expertly demonstrate how integrating action research with a systems thinking perspective illuminates the deep complexities of educational environments. The insights presented offer durable lessons that inform practice for years to come, moving beyond surface-level analysis and providing researchers and doctoral candidates with essential, practical frameworks to initiate lasting, systemic change.”
Angela Doucet Rand, MLIS, PhD, University of South Alabama
“Transformative Inquiry: Integrating Action Research and Systems Thinking is a powerful and timely contribution to the literature on change and improvement. Addressing both local practices and systemic complexity, this volume bridges methodological traditions by uniting the reflective cycles of action research with the holistic approaches of systems thinking. The editors and contributors provide readers with practical strategies and authentic accounts of transformation across education, healthcare, corporate, and military contexts. Both rigorous and refreshingly practical, it is essential reading for scholars and practitioners committed to participatory inquiry, equity-driven improvement, and sustainable change.”
Melissa K. Jones, EdD, Dartmouth College