Recent paradigm changes in the Latvian education system require new responses to the resultant emerging educational challenges. This requires engagement in professional networks relevant for academics involved in teaching and research in higher education as well as for teachers who are expected to be proactive as change agents through promoting the competitiveness of Latvian education. The aim of our study therefore is to investigate the possibilities of creating collaborative networks between academics and practitioners through realising the potentials of action research, as well as generating ideas about extending research-informed practice and practical know-how into the field of education in the wider context of change. The research questions look for ways to improve pedagogical practices by using action research and creating professional networks. The methodology of the study involves a qualitative research design and criterion sampling strategy for 65 selected action research studies undertaken by the teachers from different regions of Latvia. The findings demonstrate positive feedback about the value of action research and raise questions about which strategies might best ensure the effective development of research networks. This study is a contribution to practice-based education and provides a holistic understanding of educational challenges.