What insights have you gained about research from taking this course?
At the start of this course I was extremely nervous. I did not know what to anticipate but, I was up for the challenge. As we approach this final week, I am still a novice but, I understand that there are different types of research:
- Quantitative using sampling methods (like consumer interviews) whose findings may be expressed numerically, and are responsive to measured manipulation allowing the researcher to estimate future events or amounts.
- Qualitative the process of studying things in their natural surroundings, attempting to make sense of, or to interpret in terms of the values people bring to them.
- Mixed Method a culmination of quantitative and qualitative research.
In what ways have your ideas about the nature of doing research changed?
My ideas about the nature of doing research has changed somewhat but, there are still questions I would like to research in order to gain a better understanding of research methods and the best practices. What I have learned is that research is an attempt to gain additional knowledge or understanding about something and that there are different approaches linked to different paradigms, including deductive (positivist) and inductive (interpretivist) research.
What lessons about planning, designing, and conducting research in early childhood did you learn?
Conducting research in early childhood requires the researcher to obtain consent from parents and children and it is the responsibility of the research to explain that while there is a confidentiality clause, if there is an issue that arises that needs to be reported, the researcher is obligated to report the instance to local authorities. However, if a situation could possibly place a child in immediate danger it is best to air on the side of caution. Planning research requires the research to identify potential participants and understand the challenges they might face as they conduct their research. Choosing the appropriate method of research can impact the validity and process used for a study. Finally, researchers are observers and it is best to put personal opinions and biases aside in order to fully grasp the information acquired during the study.
What were some of the challenges you encountered—and in what ways did you meet them?
My biggest challenge was playing catch up and keeping up with the course work while I was in Intensive Care. But, narrowing down my research topic was also challenging. I wrote down a topic and then I changed it twice before submitting it to Dr. Dartt. After I decided what I wanted to research my next challenge was determining the subtopics and in order to complete this task, I solicited feedback from friends and colleagues. Maintaining a positive demeanor when I was confused about a task in my opinion was the biggest challenge as it relates to the research simulation.
What are some of the ways your perceptions of an early childhood professional have been modified as a result of this course?
Early childhood professionals are very flexible individuals. We have the ability to multitask and solve problems while maintaining a positive outlook towards others. We do not give up and have the ability to achieve the things that others think we cannot conquer. This course allowed me to interact with some extremely intellectual individuals and I appreciate the new found understandings that I have gained through this process.
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