When I think of Research....

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.