‘Action research involves identifying a problematic issue, imagining a possible solution, trying it out, evaluating it (did it work?), and changing practice in the light of the evaluation. This is what many people do in numerous life situations’ (McNiff 2002. Action research is a cyclical practice which is primarily concerned with the idea of a self-reflective enquiry. (Coen, Manion, Morrison p. 299 2007) This is a suitable methodology for teachers in the classroom as it is parallel to the practice that a teacher undertakes on any given day. They plan, they act, they observe, and they reflect. Action research is a beneficial methodology for teachers to adopt as
there is an evident synchronicity between the methodology or model of action research and teaching practice.

The research study that I conducted in the Mercy College Sligo stems from the designing of an NCCA Short Course module. The Short Courses are a result of the new Junior Certificate reform in Ireland. Difficulties with being aware of, having knowledge of, understanding, appreciating and valuing public art and its role within a community, as well as issues evident in public art education are at the forefront of the research project. These ideas underpin the research question for this study;

To what extent do the art forms of William B. Yeats and Jack B. Years enhance pupils’ appreciation of the role of public art in community settings?