When I Think Of Research.....
I have gained an abundance of
knowledge regarding research from taking this course, previously my understanding
of research was very limited. The very thought of having to sift through a
research article or paper brought me dread. After acquiring the skills to be
able to break down the different components, and define each section I find
myself having more confidence when coming to the task of reading and
comprehension. Another important awareness that I have developed from this course
is the concept of credibility within the articles and online publications.
Examining the quality of online content is essential for any early childhood
educator whether they are conducting research or even just reading content to assist
with them professionally.
The
nature of doing research and its process has become much easier as I have acquired
knowledge of the research design process, as well as the components of qualitative,
quantitative and mixed method designs. One of the most important lessons I’ve
learned from conducting early childhood research is the importance ethics, and
special considerations to deliberate when conducting research especially when
it involves young children, like the risk benefit equation and informed
consent. The design process is more than just conducting research around a specific
topic, moral and responsible guide lines must be taken into consideration in
order to protect those participants in the process and other who are involved. I
encountered many bumps in the road on my journey to understanding research, and
conducting the components within the research simulation. The formation of the
research question and hypothesis took me some time to configure, as I had a
difficult time writing a clear precise research question, however with some guidance
from the instructor as to pinpoint exactly what I was trying to study, I was
able to reformat my question accordingly. I learned that without a clear
research question and hypothesis the whole design process will be in inharmoniousness.
That initial segment is the key towards having a cohesive research design as
all other parts rely on an effective well-phrased question.
I have had many misconceptions that
have been modified as a result of this class, but perhaps the most prevalent is
my ability to be able to read and comprehend pieces of research. I can now take
the skills I’ve acquired on studying and examining pieces of valid credible research
articles to my other courses that will be extremely useful in my professional
career.
