Investigating a method as part of the action research process: education journey maps

An important consideration for doctoral students as they plan for an action research dissertation is to determine the appropriate methods for their study. Doctoral students can include a cycle in the action research process to learn how to use and experiment with different methods. In deciding to include such a cycle in my doctoral action research, I sought to understand how to use education journey maps and determine whether I should include it as a method for my dissertation. Researchers who employ this qualitative method seek to understand people's lived experiences visually, spatially, and temporally. To understand how to actualize this method, I worked with two colleagues at an English supplemental tutoring organization in China to develop our understanding of their journeys to becoming curriculum developers. Working with them led to the realization that these maps are an intimate presentation of the self. Those who create these maps learn more about themselves as they reflect on them. And these individuals serve as mediating guides in how to understand and conceptualize their journeys. Including this cycle has allowed me to better understand how to use education journey maps and what information can be learned from using them.