In a review study on the impact of teacher research, Zeichner
(2003) reported that it encourages teachers to question assumptions
about themselves and their students and to develop new
perspectives regarding their practices. Teachers who are involved
in teacher research learn to articulate and examine their own ideas
about teaching and learning and develop greater interest in curriculum
development. Several scholars emphasized that teacher
research preferably should take place in collaboration. Collaboration,
among other things, contributes to a better understanding of
the relation between theory and practice, it generates knowledge
that is useful for teachers themselves and fosters teacher professional
development (Meijer, Oolbekkink, Meierink, & Lockhorst,
2013). In addition, Christie and Menter (2009) mention benefits
as ‘joined-up thinking’; through exchange of teacher practices,
collaboration contributes to a better understanding of each other's
practices. Chai and Tan (2009) too emphasized the importance of a
community setting for professional development. Besides, they
argued the importance of working with the authentic practices of
schools and teachers and the allocation of time for in-depth
reflection and understanding.