When I Think of Research...

I appreciate all the wonderful insights I have learned from my colleagues throughout this course.  Before beginning this course, I was anxious and timid in reading and conducting research.  I viewed research as a scientific experiment filled with statistical information that I had no desire in reading or writing.  However, the coursework and insights from the past eight weeks has shown me that research is very much a process that can be tailored to meet the needs of the study, participants, and researcher(s).   Research doesn't have to be only quantitative with statistical analysis and scientific experiments.  It also can be qualitative with observations, anecdotal note-taking and interviews, or a mixed-method approach that incorporates many different aspects of research.  The study can change and evolve as the participants and researcher engage with and learn from the data within the study.  

I learned a great deal in how to look for and write research that is valid, ethical and equitable.  The most important insight I gained regarding validity was that multiple methods and perspectives (especially those of the participants) are key in making sure the research reflects a sound representation of what the data is showing.

I really gained valuable insight from the Practical Guide to Reading Research Articles by J.K. Lepuschitz.  This document addresses what parts of a research study to read in-depth, and which parts to skip.  I have already used this technique over and over and it is proving very valuable in saving me much needed time in my coursework, while still giving me the insights that I need to learn from our readings.

I felt more comfortable with the design process and we developed it step-by-step.  I feel that building a research study would be more manageable to me, yet I still feel intimidated by the qualitative study.  I still get nervous about the more structured experimental study and feel I would be a better qualitative researcher.

My perceptions of early childhood professionals have not been modified as a whole, though I feel great gratitude and admiration for those professionals who conduct these research studies because it does offer great insight and added knowledge to the field of early childhood.  Although I do not feel I have enough expertise or confidence to attack a research study on my own just yet, I do see how conducting research plays a key role in helping our field progress.  

Thank you to my online colleagues for your support and insights throughout this course.  You have added to my knowledge and learning and I look forward to continuing to collaborate with you in future courses!  Best wishes with your continued studies!