When I think of Research…

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

I have gained many insights about the research.  I learned about the different designs, approaches, data collection methods, issues and considerations when it comes to planning and conducting research.  Being able to create my own Research Simulation was very beneficial to me as it let me apply concepts as I learned them to a topic I was interested in.

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

My ideas about the nature of doing research were confirmed.  I knew it was not as easy as it seemed and I always recognized its importance in the field of early childhood.  We rely on research to guide our work with young children and families and I see that to keep being successful in our aid research must continue.  It must be an ongoing project that changes with the current environment of the early childhood field.  For example, right now a topic of relevance is early childhood programs and the ways in how the government supports them.  Another topic is immigration, specifically immigrant children and all of the subtopics that are included.  Research has given us the insights we value and use now and it will continue to do so with every related issue in the early childhood field.

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

I learned more about the intricacies of planning, designing, and conducting research.  I realized that the two most important parts of the research is the research itself and the children.  By the research I mean that the research has to be true to its purpose.  It is to report findings based on evidence that was collected in an honest and equitable way.  By the children I mean that in this particular field we are working with the most vulnerable population and one must be always keep that in mind when doing this important work. 

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

Challenges I encountered were understanding scientific concepts.  I have never been able to fully grasp science and the scientific method and processes, I am more of a visual and artistic person and writing and English were always my stronger subjects.  What I found helped me the most was to read my colleagues’ blogs.  Once I read clarifications on things I was confused about and saw how they responded I was able to post my thoughts.  Another challenge I had was sticking to my research topic.  As the course progressed I started doubting my initial idea and thought about changing it a few times to something that could be more experimental and could be tested.  I am glad I did not change my topic because it helped me learn more about variables and how they do not have to be measurable to gain some numerical evidence, they can be qualitative and give more insights in some ways.

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

I would like to thank everyone in this course for your insights. I would have to say that this has been the toughest course for me so far and I think a lot of it has to do with its scientific roots.  What helped me was reading your posts to gain clarification on topics.  I wish you all success as you continue.