When I Think of Research...

 I have a new found appreciation for researchers. Since I have taken this course I gained new knowledge and understanding as to what goes into putting together a research study.

What insights have you gained about research from taking this course?

I have learned there are a variety of methods and approaches used to conduct research. I learned about qualitative and quantitative designs and the difference between the two. I learned that different studies require different methodologies depending on the outcome that is sought.

In what ways have your ideas about the nature of doing research changed?

I have a new appreciation for research. I now have the ability to consider different approaches depending on a topic.

What lessons about planning, designing, and conducting research in early childhood did you learn?

I now understand that many things have to be considered when planning, designing, and conducting an early childhood research study. There are many variables which can contribute or hinder a study. There are also ethical concerns which need to be considered and addressed.

What were some of the challenges you encountered- and in what ways did you meet them?

I can honestly say I was terrified when I was enrolled in this course I knew it was important but I didn't think I would ever be able to wrap my brain around the big words let alone understand the meaning and the usage. I was able to sort it out and understand through the reading and mainly the discussions and professor through conversations and different perspectives things made sense and didn't seem as hard.

What are some of the ways your perceptions of an early childhood professional have been modified as a result of this course?

I feel I am more aware of the importance of keeping personal feelings out of the research topic. I have a respect for early childhood professionals who do conduct research studies to continually better our programs. I was really taken when I had the opportunity to read about how Head Start got its start through a research study and now I can view the progression with a knew found understanding. I take with me a learning experience which really caught me by surprise.

A note of thanks..  I would like to thank everyone as I really was intimidated by the course outline when we began our journey but with the positive discussions and communication through the blog and the help and support from Dr. Davis with much gratitude to all I can say I have learned from this experience and all of you have played a significant role.

Resource:

Mac Naughton, G., Rolfe, S.A., & Siraj-Blatchford, I. (2010). Doing early childhood research: International perspectives on theory and practice (2nd ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.