Later in the book it will be suggested that in ‘academic’ research the researcher needs to demonstrate
that findings are rigorously supported by the analysis of systematically collected data, to make a strong case
that the conclusions are valid. Although AR seeks an evidence base for effective decision-making, it is used to
directly support the actual work of teaching (here, and now) rather than developing formal theoretical frameworks shown to have general application. AR is therefore often concerned with producing good-enough
evidence for making quick decisions about the teaching that is ongoing now, rather than seeking to produce
abstract knowledge that incrementally develops educational theory. Such AR is not help up to the evidential standards of academic research, but on evidence that is ‘fit for purpose’ – where the purpose is to inform our immediate work in the classroom.