EDUC 6163: When I Think of Research…
What insights have you gained about research from taking this course?
One of the biggest insights that I have gained through this course is the understanding that I now have with the connection between my present skill set as an early learning professional and skills required for research in this field. Through my personal experiences working with children I have demonstrated how to reduce power relationships between teacher and student, built collaborative learning environments, given credit and value to children’s opinions, and utilized various data collection methods. I feel that if I were to be involved in a research project, I would have valuable skills and insights to offer.
In what ways have your ideas about the nature of doing research changed?
Combining this belief in myself with my new understandings gained through this course has certainly shifted my thoughts and feelings towards the field of research. My initial assumptions towards research came from only understanding a dominant approach to research, which is very rigid in its quantitative processes and in allowing who can perform research. I felt fear and intimidation in even thinking about becoming involved in such research. However, as this course as clearly demonstrated, research designs and method options go beyond this dominant approach and include qualitative methods that are reflective and flexible in their approach. This new understanding of research has made the thought of becoming involved in research much more comfortable and appealing.
What lessons about planning, designing, and conducting research in early childhood did you learn?
There are a lot of components to planning, designing, and conducting research and one of the biggest insights I gained in this regard was the amount of time and detail that is required in order to create a project that meets ethical and validity requirements. Having colleagues assist with these research components can be extremely helpful in ensuring that each and every detail of the project has been considered before moving forward.
What were some of the challenges you encountered—and in what ways did you meet them?
My biggest challenge during this course was when I encountered unknown terms that had very little description or detail provided as a means for further explanation. It is very important for me to fully understand the text I am reading in order for me to take that information and apply it appropriately to my professional position, personal understandings, or my research simulation. Although I was able to use the glossary to assist, often the terms were not listed in this section. Therefore, I would need to read ahead into other chapters in order to gain a better understanding of some of the new terms. I found the weekly definitions in our assignment extremely helpful in solidifying my understandings of new terms and concepts.
What are some of the ways your perceptions of an early childhood professional have been modified as a result of this course?
I don’t think that I have modified my perceptions of early childhood professionals as I have always included many roles as important and contributing members to the field. In my opinion, early childhood professionals have always included a variety of positions including those that work directly with children, manage programs, advocate for children, perform research, and teach and work in higher education.
In conclusion, I wanted to express how thankful I am for the experiences and insights that this course has provided. I am no longer intimidated by the idea of being involved in research and surprisingly; a part of me would welcome that opportunity. To Dr. Todd and each of my colleagues, I am truly thankful for your support and insights over the past eight weeks.
Sandra